Research Scientist

Reposted 25 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
In-Office
106K-180K Annually
Mid level
Hardware
The Role
Perform R&D in semiconductor optics and optoelectronic devices: design, build, and operate optical/electronic test benches and vacuum equipment; run device physics simulations (Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical); perform materials characterization and spectroscopy; collaborate cross-functionally and communicate technical results to inform the technology roadmap.
Summary Generated by Built In

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

The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) plays a critical role in developing advanced long-range technology in collaboration with product divisions and strategic marketing, working on future technology like light sources, lasers, and sensors. We are engaged in the research and development process, and once the technology is mature, we partner with product engineering groups who then build products based on the technology we’ve developed. The Office of the CTO also provides technical input into KLA’s strategic planning process, program reviews and Product Life Cycle (PLC) phases. We provide our broad technology expertise and cross-division experience to ensure we leverage the collective knowledge within our company.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

We are looking for a Research Scientist to join our CTO group in Ann Arbor, Michigan!

Requirements:

  • Background in semiconductor physics, optics, light matter interactions, and semiconductor processing

  • Experienced with designing, building, and operating optical and electronic device test benches to probe light matter interactions

  • Experienced in optical and optoelectronic device physics simulations (Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical, etc.)

  • Experienced in designing, building, and operating vacuum-based equipment

  • Experienced with various materials characterization and spectroscopic methods

  • Proactive collaborator with strong interpersonal skills, a hands-on approach, and the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts both in writing and verbally to enable technology roadmap

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields in optoelectronic devices

Base Pay Range: $105,900.00 - $180,000.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.

Skills Required

  • Background in semiconductor physics, optics, light matter interactions, and semiconductor processing
  • Experience designing, building, and operating optical and electronic device test benches
  • Experience in optical and optoelectronic device physics simulations (Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical, etc.)
  • Experience designing, building, and operating vacuum-based equipment
  • Experience with materials characterization and spectroscopic methods
  • Proactive collaboration skills, hands-on approach, and strong written and verbal technical communication
  • Ph.D. in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or related fields in optoelectronic devices

KLA Compensation & Benefits Highlights

The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about KLA and has not been reviewed or approved by KLA.

  • Retirement Support U.S. programs include a formulaic 401(k) employer match with clearly described plan designs in company materials. Consistent plan structure and employer matching signal strong support for long‑term savings.
  • Equity Value & Accessibility A broad base of employees is eligible for RSUs and can participate in an ESPP, extending ownership beyond executives. Company materials position equity as a core component of total compensation.
  • Strong & Reliable Incentives A quarterly profit‑sharing program and performance bonuses are outlined in filings, providing regular variable pay opportunities. These incentives complement base pay and equity to lift overall earnings in strong periods.

KLA Insights

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The Company
HQ: Milpitas, CA
10,001 Employees

What We Do

KLA develops industry-leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry. We provide advanced process control and process-enabling solutions for manufacturing wafers and reticles. In close collaboration with leading customers across the globe, our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers design solutions that move the world forward.

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