Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.
Job Summary & Responsibilities
The Senior Systems Engineer for the Iris T1 platform will play a critical role in advancing Onto’s next‑generation optical metrology solutions. This position focuses on developing new metrology capabilities, optimizing performance of existing Iris T1 systems, and delivering clear, data‑driven guidance to global field and customer teams.
The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with cross‑functional partners—including software engineering, hardware design, systems engineering, and applications scientists—to define system specifications, establish performance requirements, and ensure successful system integration. The role requires designing and executing experiments to validate system behavior, diagnose performance issues, and drive continuous improvement in optical hardware and measurement algorithms.
Additional responsibilities include supporting first‑in‑fab Iris T1 system installations, enabling initial tool matching and baseline performance validation, and developing training resources and documentation for regional engineering teams. This role will require international travel of up to 20%.
Align, optimize, and validate precision optical subsystems within the Iris T1 platform
Develop best practices and operational methodologies to maximize tool performance and measurement stability
Design, execute, and analyze experiments to characterize, troubleshoot, and enhance optical metrology performance
Create structured action plans and drive timely execution
Develop and deliver technical presentations for internal stakeholders and external customers
Communicate system requirements, design specifications, and performance findings to multidisciplinary engineering teams
Support on‑site activities including new tool installations, initial qualification, and matching of first‑in‑fab systems
Generate technical procedures, documentation, and training materials for global engineering teams
Qualifications
Master’s in engineering or physical sciences with emphasis in optical physics or related optical technologies – PhD preferred.
5+ years of semiconductor capital equipment engineering experience, preferably in optical metrology
Hands‑on applications development experience with spectroscopic ellipsometry or related optical measurement techniques
Demonstrated experience integrating precision optical and optomechanical components
Proficiency in data analysis and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
Strong analytical skills and a methodical, data‑driven approach to troubleshooting complex systems
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; collaborative team‑oriented mindset
Hands‑on experience working with prototype systems in an R&D or laboratory environment
Background in new product development, system bring‑up, or early‑stage metrology platforms
Ability to travel internationally up to 20%
Why Join Onto Innovation?
At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Compensation & Growth
• Base Salary Range:
$102,400.00 - $153,600.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.
Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:
Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.
Important Note on Export Compliance
For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Skills Required
- Master's in engineering or physical sciences with emphasis in optical physics or related optical technologies
- 5+ years of semiconductor capital equipment engineering experience, preferably in optical metrology
- Hands‑on applications development experience with spectroscopic ellipsometry or related optical measurement techniques
- Proficiency in data analysis and scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; collaborative team‑oriented mindset
Onto Innovation Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Onto Innovation and has not been reviewed or approved by Onto Innovation.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — An employee stock purchase plan and broad equity eligibility provide accessible ownership opportunities as part of total compensation. Company materials reference active equity programs, signaling tangible value beyond base pay.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage with HSA/FSA options form a comprehensive health package that is often characterized as good. Wellness resources and employer-verified plan details reinforce perceived healthcare depth.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) with company match supports long-term financial security. Company materials and benefits pages highlight these retirement features as core elements of the package.
Onto Innovation Insights
What We Do
Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: Un-patterned wafer quality; 3D metrology spanning chip features from nanometer scale transistors to large die interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient. Headquartered in Wilmington, Massachusetts, Onto Innovation supports customers with a worldwide sales and service organization. We are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ONTO.
