New

Staff Optical Research Scientist

KLA
paid time off, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, California, Milpitas
Sep 04, 2025
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 KLA's Office of the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is seeking a staff optical research scientist to drive CTO's advanced optics R&D! Responsibilities Driving CTO group's advanced optics R&D in the following areas High performance optics design DUV optics design and know-how High precision optical metrology Advanced opto-mechanical design Accurate optical system modeling High precision experiments AI for optics Proposing and designing optical architecture to meet the requirements of dedicated applications Translating the top-level system requirements into subsystem specifications Performing critical optical design analysis, covering the following areas: tolerance analysis, misalignment compensation schemes and metrology challenges Collaborating with and guiding vendors to resolve manufacturing issues Designing and conducting experiments to validate the system performance, and addressing the outstanding issues Identifying the key areas in optics design or modeling that can significantly benefit from AI technologies Proposition Proof of concept Validation Required Solid background in physics, optics and math Expertise in optics design, modeling and experiments Expertise in numerical simulations while proficient in at least one of the typical programming languages for this purpose, such as Matlab, Python, Julia, ... etc. Familiar with AI technologies and their typical applications to solving physical problems Highly motivated and curiosity-driven Skilled in effective communication and team collaboration Ability to travel up to 15% Desired Knowledge of semiconductor metrology/inspection industry Minimum Qualifications Ph.D. in physics, optics or math with at least 3 years' relevant working experience Base Pay Range: $154,900.00 - $263,300.00 Annually Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-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 attalent.acquisition@kla.com 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 talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. 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