JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a Senior Motion Control Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced robotic and automation systems for semiconductor manufacturing equipment. This role requires deep technical expertise in motion control, strong system-level thinking, and the ability to drive solutions from concept through production while collaborating across disciplines and with external partners.
Lead motion control system analysis, simulation, and testing to develop robust, high-performance solutions.
Architect, design, and implement control systems, including requirements definition, schematics, firmware, and cable designs.
Program, tune, and optimize motion controllers to meet demanding performance, reliability, and safety requirements.
Define and execute system-level test strategies; design and build test fixtures to qualify, validate, and troubleshoot robots and controllers.
Troubleshoot complex system-level issues and provide expert technical support to manufacturing and field teams.
Drive Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and maintain accurate, traceable design documentation.
Ensure designs meet applicable safety and regulatory standards including UL, IEC, NFPA, and SEMI.
Collaborate cross-functionally and with external suppliers to resolve technical challenges and improve manufacturability.
Act as a technical leader and mentor while fostering a positive, results-driven engineering culture.
Travel domestically and internationally as required (less than 10%).
Requirements
Senior-level expertise in motion control systems and robotics with a demonstrated ability to execute independently.
Deep understanding of closed-loop control theory and its application to servo motor systems.
Extensive experience programming motion controllers and optimizing real-world system performance.
Strong knowledge of motion feedback devices (encoders) and industrial communication protocols, including Macro Ring, Modbus TCP, and EtherCAT.
Proven ability to create and review control system schematics and cable design specifications.
Working knowledge of safety and compliance standards, including UL, IEC, NFPA, and SEMI.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong cross-functional collaboration capabilities.
Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced development environment.
Ability to work in a cleanroom environment.
Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field required. Advanced degree preferred.
Minimum 3+ years of hands-on experience developing, documenting, and testing semiconductor manufacturing equipment or similarly complex electromechanical systems, demonstrating increasing technical responsibility and ownership.
Preferred Experience
SCARA robot control systems.
Omron PMAC (formerly Delta Tau) controllers and Macro Ring communication.
Vacuum control systems.
System-level experience with semiconductor process tools, including EFEM wafer handling systems.
Ability to work onsite a minimum of three days per week.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
It is the policy of Axcelis to provide equal opportunity in all areas of employment for all persons free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, color, national origin, disability status, medical condition (including pregnancy), veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Axcelis will provide reasonable accommodation necessary to enable a disabled candidate or employee to perform the essential functions of the position, unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the Company.
U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE
$124,050.32 - $186,075.49This base salary range reflects the typical compensation for this role across U.S. locations.
Our salary ranges are determined by role and level; individual pay is determined based on
multiple factors, including job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, work
location, and internal equity. The range provides the opportunity for growth and progression as
you develop within the role.
Base pay is one part of our U.S. total compensation package which includes eligibility in the
Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits package (for regular
employees working 20+ hours a week).
Skills Required
- Senior-level expertise in motion control systems and robotics
- Deep understanding of closed-loop control theory
- Extensive experience programming motion controllers
- Strong knowledge of motion feedback devices and industrial communication protocols
- Proven ability to create and review control system schematics
- Working knowledge of safety and compliance standards
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced development environment
- Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, or related field
Axcelis Technologies Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Axcelis Technologies and has not been reviewed or approved by Axcelis Technologies.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare is considered robust, with medical (PPO), dental, and company‑paid life and disability coverage included. Coverage quality is characterized as strong across core offerings.
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Retirement Support — Retirement programs include a 401(k) with employer match in the U.S. and compliant retirement plans internationally. These offerings support long‑term savings across regions.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity participation is accessible via an Employee Stock Purchase Plan available to employees in multiple countries. This ownership avenue is positioned as a notable component of total rewards.
Axcelis Technologies Insights
What We Do
Axcelis Technologies, Inc. is a world-leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor manufacturing industry. For over forty five years, chipmakers from around the globe have relied on Axcelis' tools and process expertise to form the transistors that power all electronics - from smartphones and laptops, cameras, personal music players and more. Our equipment portfolio comprises a powerful suite of manufacturing technologies for ion implantation, one of the most critical steps in the IC manufacturing process. In addition, we provide extensive aftermarket service and support, including spare parts, equipment upgrades, maintenance services, and customer training. Our customers include all of the 20 largest semiconductor manufacturers in the world. More than 3000 of our products are in use worldwide. At our Advanced Technology Center in Beverly, Mass., we collaborate with customers and other industry experts to develop next-generation applications and process capabilities. We support our customers with a worldwide network of 38 field offices in 10 countries. In all that we do, our strategy is singular: align every Axcelis innovation and success with our customers' goals. We strive to understand the entirety of their challenges and stand ready to deliver the technology, service and support they need to succeed.
