New

Research Scientist - Optical Imaging Systems

KLA
paid time off, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, California, Milpitas
Apr 07, 2026
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. 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. The RAPID division is the world leading provider of reticle inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides inspection solutions to both the mask shops and the semiconductor fabs to ensure that lithography yields are consistently high thus enabling cost-effective manufacturing. Job Description/Preferred Qualifications Responsibilities The RAPID Advanced Technology team is looking for a self-motivated, creative, and results-oriented Research Scientist. The successful candidate will support the development of next-generation RAPID system architecture and performance improvement roadmap. Specifically, the Research Scientist will work with the team in the following areas: Develop and evaluate concepts and designs for the next generation systems and subsystems Perform simulation and data analysis to model and validate system performance Conduct feasibility investigation of novel system/subsystem concepts Build system/subsystem level error budget and define requirements. Work closely with engineering functional teams on prototype design, implementation and performance validation Perform data collection on the tool/test bench and data analysis to demonstrate the value of the concept Collaborate with other team members and functional groups to solve technical problems Present the results and findings to the team and management Qualifications Strong background in engineering or the physical science and demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills Solid understanding of the working principles of the optical imaging system and key system components Experience in optical system modeling and performance analysis Ability to collect data independently by using tool standard and diagnostic software Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Matlab or Python Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-functional team environment 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 attalent.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. 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