Manufacturing Design Engineer, Materials Science

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.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Job Description:

As a Manufacturing Design Engineer, you will play a key role within the U.S. Operations team, working closely with Manufacturing, Manufacturing Design Engineering, Photo Physicists, Contamination and Damage Control (CDC) specialists, the Materials and Supply Chain team, suppliers, and external service laboratories.

In this role, you will perform failure analysis (often contamination-related), develop and implement new materials testing methods, support Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) processes, design and optimize cleaning processes. Success in this position requires in-depth understanding of materials analytical techniques, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build collaborative relationships across diverse teams to ensure cleanliness and reliability of our products.

• Collaborate proactively with engineering, manufacturing, and business teams to define, coordinate, and execute action plans for technical problem-solving in a dynamic, cross-functional environment.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical challenges, including coating issues, supply-related concerns, materials degradation, and failures across diverse product lines. Conduct comprehensive failure analysis to identify root causes and implement corrective actions for long-term mitigation.
• Design, develop, and validate innovative materials testing methodologies, leveraging advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
• Provide expert support for GCMS process and lead process automation initiatives to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve data management.
• Design and optimize cleaning processes to meet evolving and stringent cleanliness requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in root cause-driven failure analysis, manufacturing process improvement, and automation.
• Advanced proficiency in materials analysis techniques, including GCMS, SEM, EDS, TEM, SIMS, UV-Vis, FTIR, Raman Spectroscopy etc.
• Hands-on experience with instrument maintenance and troubleshooting.  
• Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to design experiments, collect and analyze data, and consistently apply the 8D problem-solving methodology. Committed to challenging existing processes to drive continuous improvement.
• Good working knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes and industry quality standards.
• Ability to read technical drawings and interpret BOMs.
• Willingness to travel for training, supplier visits, project support, and global customer support.
• Nice to have: Experience in coating damage, metallurgy, optical, or mechanical design a plus.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors Degree and minimum of 2 years of experience or an advanced degree with 0 years of experience.

Base Pay Range: $81,500.00 - $138,600.00 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 talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees.  KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings.  KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers.  If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.