System Engineer

KLA; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 136,000 - 232,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) matching

ESPP

Job summary

KLA is seeking a highly qualified scientist/engineer in Milpitas to advance semiconductor metrology and inspection solutions. The role emphasizes experimental setup, data modeling, and high‑level data interpretation to drive improvements in imaging and defect analysis.

The candidate should hold a Doctorate or Master’s in a relevant field, possess strong scripting skills (MATLAB/Python), and demonstrate excellent communication for cross‑functional collaborations.

Qualifications

• Doctorate or Master's in Physics, Engineering Physics, Engineering Design, Mechanical, Electrical, or Materials & Metallurgical Engineering.
• Experience with instrumentation, signal processing and optical/electro‑optical systems such as electron microscopes is preferred.
• Hands‑on machine control and scientific data analysis skills are highly desirable.
• Proficiency in scripting for data collection and analysis (MATLAB, Python, others).
• Strong communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up experiments, model systems, and analyze data to solve complex technical problems.
• Collaborate across teams to deliver high‑quality imaging and data for defects and measurements.
• Present technical results effectively to stakeholders and leaders.

Skills

Instrumentation

Signal processing

Optical systems

Python

MATLAB

Data analysis

Education

Doctorate (Physics/Engineering)

Master's degree in engineering/physics

Bachelor's degree in engineering/physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice‑controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem‑solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice‑controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem‑solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Group/Division

With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next‑generation devices to volume production quickly and cost‑effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA’s metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. First to deliver the best imaging and classification data for every defect or point on any layer at any time. EBeam’s mission encapsulates its role as the “eyes” of KLA’s product line, providing timely information on defects and critical locations on the wafer at the highest spatial resolution possible. Customers use EBeam products alongside KLA patterned and bare wafer inspectors to quickly understand the nature of defects and other imperfections on product wafers and take action to correct the manufacturing process.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

• Candidate should have Doctorate/Master's degree in either of Physics, Engineering Physics, Engineering Design, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Materials and Metallurgical Engineering.
• Knowledge in instrumentation, signal processing and optical/electro-optical systems such as electron microscopes is preferred.
• Experience with Vacuum Systems, Electron Optics, and High Voltage for scanning electron microscopes or equivalent a plus.
• Hands‑on experiences in machine control and/or scientific data analysis is highly desired.
• Candidate must have demonstrated an ability in setting‑up experiments, modelling and data analysis, solving complex technical problems.
• Candidate must have demonstrated proficiency in scripting language (MATLAB, Python, others) for scientific data collection & analysis.
• Finally, the candidate must have excellent communication, interpersonal skills and ability to create effective technical presentations.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years

Base Pay Range: $136,300.00 - $231,700.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at [e-mail] or at [phone] to request accommodation.