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
Position Summary:
We are seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Staff Systems Engineer to lead the architecture, design, and integration of advanced semiconductor metrology and inspection equipment automation platforms. This role is ideal for a systems thinker with deep domain expertise in high-speed, precision opto-mechanical systems and a proven track record in the semiconductor equipment industry. As a technical leader, you will drive innovation, mentor cross-functional teams, and ensure the successful delivery of complex, high-performance systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead system-level design and integration of opto-mechanical subsystems for semiconductor metrology and inspection platforms.
- Define and manage system requirements, architecture, and performance budgets across optical, mechanical, electrical, and software domains.
- Serve as the technical authority for system trade studies, risk assessments, and design reviews.
- Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and customer-facing teams to ensure robust, scalable, and manufacturable solutions.
- Guide root cause analysis and resolution of complex system-level issues during development and field deployment.
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of best practices and engineering standards.
- Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends to inform product strategy and roadmap.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
- 10+ years of experience in the semiconductor capital equipment industry, with a focus on metrology and inspection systems.
- Deep expertise in high-speed, precision opto-mechanical system design and integration.
- Ph.D. in relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
- Experience with vacuum systems, cleanroom-compatible design, and contamination control.
- Familiarity with semiconductor process control, defect inspection methodologies, and data analytics.
- Knowledge of regulatory and safety standards applicable to semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
- Automation of hardware control - Labview, C++, C#
- Signal processing algorithm development experience
- Machine learning algorithm development experience
- CAD design using CREO or Solidworks
- Finite element modeling experience (Comsol, Ansys, etc)
- Strong background in system modeling, performance analysis, and tolerance budgeting.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional technical teams and drive complex projects to completion.
- Excellent communication, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.
Onto Innovation Inc. offers competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, including health/dental/vision/life/disability, PTO, 401K plan with employer match, and an Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP) along with health & wellness initiatives. We provide a collaborative working environment along with resources, and state-of-the-art tools & equipment to promote success; and a welcoming, inclusive corporate culture where individuals are recognized for their contributions.
Onto Innovation Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.
For positions requiring access to technical data, Onto Innovation Inc., Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce - Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the U.S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this position - except US Citizens, US Permanent Residents, and protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) - may have to go through an export licensing review process.