Senior Machine Learning Engineer, Defect Quality & Systems

About Samsung Austin Semiconductor Samsung is a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, founded on the belief that the pursuit of excellence creates a better world. At Samsung Austin Semiconductor, we are Innovating Today to Power the Devices of Tomorrow. Come innovate with us!

Position Summary

We are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Engineer to serve as a technical lead within the Defect Engineering Systems group. In this critical role, you will drive the strategy for our in-house ML models, directly impacting the company's ability to detect and classify critical defects in real-time. You will be responsible for the entire ML lifecycle—from collaborating with module owners to define classification logic, to architecting scalable vision models that operate within our high-throughput, 24/7 manufacturing environment. As a senior member of a small, high-performing team, you will not only develop cutting-edge models but also mentor junior engineers and establish the best practices for model deployment, validation, and maintenance.

Role and Responsibilities

Here’s What You’ll Be Responsible For:

• Architect Advanced ML Solutions : Lead the design and implementation of sophisticated ML models focused on defect detection and classification, optimizing for maximum accuracy, throughput, and minimal time-to-detection.
• Drive Domain Alignment : Partner with expert module owners to translate complex physical defect characteristics into mathematical modeling proposals and rigorous classification frameworks.
• Innovate via Research : Spearhead the transition from theory to production by identifying emerging AI research and whitepapers, adapting new architectures to solve unique semiconductor manufacturing challenges.
• Optimize the ML Pipeline : Enhance model performance through advanced feature engineering, hyperparameter tuning, and the implementation of modern vision architectures (CNNs, Object Detection, etc.).
• Ensure Operational Scalability : Develop and maintain models that are robust enough for a 24/7 production environment, ensuring seamless integration and high reliability.
• Mentor & Lead : Set the standard for codebase quality and design principles within the group, providing technical mentorship to junior engineers and conducting rigorous code reviews.

Skills and Qualifications

Here's what you'll need:

• Education : BS or MS in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics or related STEM/Engineering degree
• Experience: 5+ years relevant experience
• Semiconductor industry highly preferred
• Expertise in ML Frameworks : Mastery of open-source frameworks (TensorFlow 2.x, PyTorch) with a proven track record of deploying models into production environments.
• Systems Proficiency : High comfort level with command-line interfaces and Linux environments (Ubuntu), with an understanding of how to optimize models for hardware performance.
• Strategic Communication : Ability to synthesize complex ML metrics into actionable business insights for a broad range of audiences, from fellow engineers to site leadership.
• Execution Excellence : A history of managing complex technical projects from conception to delivery while adhering to strict deadlines and software design principles.

The current base salary range for this role is between $106,000 - $145,000. Individual base pay rates will depend on factors including duties, work location, education, skills, qualifications and experience. Total compensation for this position will include a competitive benefits package and may include participation in company incentive compensation programs, which are based on factors to include organizational and individual performance.

Total Rewards

At Samsung Austin Semiconductor, base pay is just one part of our total compensation package. The base compensation for this role will depend on education, experience, skills, and location. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and 401(k) matching with immediate vesting
• Onsite café(s) and workout facilities
• Paid maternity and paternity leave
• Paid time off (PTO) + 2 personal holidays and 10 regular holidays
• Wellness incentives and MORE

Eligible full-time employees (salaried or hourly) may also receive MBO bonuses based on company, division, and individual performance. All positions at Samsung Austin Semiconductor are full-time on-site. Trade Secrets By submitting an application, you agree not to disclose to Samsung or induce or encourage Samsung to use any confidential or proprietary information (including trade secrets) belonging to a current or former employer or other entity.

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