Global Category Manager - EFEM (Equipment Front End Module )

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

Key Job Responsibilities:

Technical Sourcing & Category Strategy

• Develop and execute a comprehensive category strategy for EFEMs, including sub-category strategy for wafer transfer modules, load ports, aligners, robots, controllers, Fan filters, Frame structure etc.
• Align strategy with stake-holders, business objectives & technology roadmaps.  Drive actions to execute the strategy.
• Market research, identification, screening and qualification of new suppliers to meet KLA’s technical and commercial roadmap.
• Collaborate with R&D to align sourcing decisions with equipment specifications and fab integration requirements.

Supplier Qualification & Supplier Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to support innovation, capacity expansion, and risk mitigation.
• Lead supplier performance management through scorecards, business reviews and corrective action plans.
• Drive supplier development initiatives, including cost reduction programs, quality improvement, and lead time optimization.
• Supplier relationship management and lead escalations.

Contracting & Negotiation

• Lead complex negotiations on the terms of Purchase agreements.
• Manage contract lifecycle, including renewals, amendments, and dispute resolution.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering, NPI and manufacturing teams to understand technical requirements and ensure supplier capabilities.
• Support new product introductions (NPIs) by aligning sourcing strategies with design and production timelines.
• Work closely with finance and legal teams to manage budgets, risks, and compliance.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Monitor geopolitical, economic, and environmental risks affecting the EFEM supply base.
• Develop dual sourcing strategies and inventory buffers for long-lead or single-source items.
• Ensure compliance with export controls, RoHS, REACH, and other regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Supply Chain, or related field; Master’s or certifications (CPSM, PMP) preferred.
• Requires a blend of technical and business expertise as well as solid interpersonal and negotiation skills to contribute, lead, and manage at all organizational levels, both internally and externally.  
• 10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management in semiconductor or high-tech equipment.
• Deep technical knowledge of EFEMs, including wafer handling robotics, atmospheric transfer systems, and cleanroom automation.
• International travel may be required.  (<=20%)
• Experience with supplier audits, technical negotiations, and cost modeling.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Supply Chain, or related field; Master’s or certifications (CPSM, PMP) preferred.
• Requires a blend of technical and business expertise as well as solid interpersonal and negotiation skills to contribute, lead, and manage at all organizational levels, both internally and externally.  
• 10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management in semiconductor or high-tech equipment.
• Deep technical knowledge of EFEMs, including wafer handling robotics, atmospheric transfer systems, and cleanroom automation.
• Experience with supplier audits, technical negotiations, and cost modeling.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees.

KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

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