Research Scientist (Electromagnetism, Optical Imaging)

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 With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA’s metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The RAPID division is the world leading provider of reticle inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides inspection solutions to both the mask shops and the semiconductor fabs to ensure that lithography yields are consistently high thus enabling cost-effective manufacturing. Job Description/Preferred Qualifications We are seeking a self-motivated Research Scientist to join the RAPID Advanced Technology team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and validating performance of advanced optical inspection platforms. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in optical physics, imaging and electromagnetism, and combines strong analytical skills with hands‑on modeling, simulation, and data analysis experience. You will work closely with technology, engineering and applications teams to investigate new methods to improve optical detection of reticle defects. Key Responsibilities Perform electro-magnetic simulations and data analysis to model and validate system performance Conduct feasibility investigations of novel algorithm or system concepts to meet inspection challenges Work closely with engineering teams on prototype design, implementation and tool performance validation Present the results and findings to the team and management Qualifications Strong background in Electrical Engineering, Physics or Optical Imaging Demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills Consistent record to applying fundamental principles of electromagnetism and optics to optical imaging or measurement problems. Hands‑on experience with electromagnetic and optical image modeling and simulation tools. Or, hands-on experience with computational imaging methods. Proficiency in image and signal processing and statistics using MATLAB, Python or other relevant software. Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts and trade‑offs to cross‑functional teams. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-functional team environment. Minimum Qualifications Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years Base Pay Range: $136,300.00 - $231,700.00 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 at View email address on click.appcast.io or at View phone number on click.appcast.io 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 View email address on click.appcast.io to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information. Now hiring curious minds who want to learn even more. Explore KLA at 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 at View email address on click.appcast.io or at View phone number on click.appcast.io to request accommodation. For additional information, view the US Know Your Rights poster on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website. We do not accept resumes from headhunters, placement agencies, or other suppliers that have not signed a formal agreement with us.