Research Scientist

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 been made 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 invests 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 SPTS wafer processing solutions include market‑leading silicon etch, dielectric etch, dry‑release etch, PVD, PECVD and molecular vapor deposition (MVD®), available with a range of wafer‑handling options applicable to R&D, pilot production, or volume production environments. SPTS is headquartered and has its main manufacturing facility in Newport, UK, with additional manufacturing in Allentown, Pennsylvania. SPTS operates across 19 countries in Europe, North America and Asia‑Pacific, and offers comprehensive service and spare parts support through a worldwide network of service centers and qualified local agents. Job Description The Advanced Development team seeks a candidate to develop novel plasma etch and deposition technologies to meet current and future demands of KLA SPTS Division customers. Responsibilities include: Generate new hardware/process concepts and model them using commercial simulation software. Execute challenging hands‑on process development and hardware testing. Understand process integration challenges for 3D advanced packaging, photonics and specialty applications, and discuss requirements with development partners. Advise end‑users on system performance, prepare reports and technical notes, and present data in technical review seminars. Build successful relationships with stakeholders. Work autonomously with a high degree of independence while contributing to a small team. Perform detailed analysis of results, model mechanisms, and generate new process solutions and IP submissions. This position involves minimal international travel. Qualifications & Experience Applicants should have a PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science or semiconductor technology, with relevant experience working with plasma etch, CVD, PVD or ALD equipment. The successful candidate will have: Good analytical skills, including proficiency in SEM metrology. Knowledge of and experience with end‑point techniques. Excellent communication skills. Ability to work both autonomously and as part of a small team. Experience in plasma modelling (e.g., HPEM), and familiarity with COMSOL®, ANSYS, Quantamol or equivalent packages and DOE methodologies. Minimum Qualifications Doctorate (Academic) Degree with 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. Compensation Base Pay Range: $105,900.00 - $180,000.00 Annually Location Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLA Equal Opportunity Employer 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io to request accommodation. #J-18808-Ljbffr KLA