JOB DESCRIPTION
Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer
Position Summary
The Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer is responsible for validating software used to control Axcelis ion implantation systems for semiconductor wafer processing. This role focuses on system-level software verification, test planning and execution, defect investigation, and ensuring software releases meet quality and customer requirements.
The ideal candidate has experience working with complex electro-mechanical systems, structured testing methodologies, and cross-functional engineering teams. This position requires strong analytical and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate ion implantation equipment in a laboratory and cleanroom environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with software, systems, and hardware engineering teams to review product requirements and ensure test coverage.
- Develop, maintain, and execute test plans and test cases that validate software functionality, system performance and end-to-end customer scenarios.
- Verify software and system requirements through structured testing and documented results.
- Validate software installation procedures for internal use and customer releases.
- Operate ion implantation equipment and simulation platforms to perform system-level software validation.
- Investigate issues identified during testing, collect supporting data and logs, assist with root cause analysis, and verify corrective actions.
- Document defects in the defect tracking system with clear problem descriptions, reproduction steps, supporting evidence, and expected results.
- Maintain accurate records of test execution, results, risks, and quality metrics.
- Participate in software release readiness reviews and quality assessments.
- Work in a cleanroom environment while following all required cleanroom protocols and safety procedures.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clearly document test results and technical issues.
- Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to interpret software requirements and translate them into effective test cases.
- Experience with software testing methodologies, defect tracking systems, and test documentation.
- Ability to identify, document, and communicate system-level hardware and software issues.
- Experience working with complex electro-mechanical equipment or industrial systems.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with semiconductor manufacturing equipment, ion implantation systems, or other capital equipment used in semiconductor fabrication.
- Knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes and industry practices.
- Familiarity with factory automation standards such as SECS/GEM.
- Experience with software validation, system integration testing, or customer workflow testing.
- Understanding of hardware/software interactions in industrial control systems.
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physical Sciences, or a related technical discipline.
- Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will also be considered.
Job Location
- Beverly, MA
- 100% Onsite
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
$99,120.00 - $148,680.00This 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
- Work in a team environment to review requirements and design
- Develop and validate test case matrices covering hardware and software requirements
- Develop and validate HW and SW installation procedures for releases
- Operate ion implant equipment and simulator systems to perform validation
- Perform investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions for test issues
- Generate detailed daily test reports capturing results and issues
- Document issues in a Defect Tracking system with reproducible steps and supporting data
- Work in a clean room environment following clean protocols (wear full clean room suit)
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail
- Strong analytical, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills for hardware and software failures
- Ability to recognize equipment malfunction and produce detailed reports
- Knowledge of High-Voltage and High-Current Power Supplies, High Vacuum Systems, electro-mechanical robots, and hardware communication protocols
- Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical assembly drawings for installation and validation
- Experience using multimeter, oscilloscope, and various hand tools
- Experience soldering electronic components and crimping electrical wires
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline
- Knowledge of Semiconductor Ion Implant Equipment or related semiconductor equipment
- Knowledge of Semiconductor industry processes and standards
- Familiarity with Semiconductor Factory Automation SECS/GEM (SEMI) standard
- Familiarity with electrical and mechanical design standards
- Experience with software programming languages: C, C++, C#, Unix
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.
