Senior Research Scientist

US - CA - San Jose

About Veeco
You probably don't realize it, but what we do at Veeco touches the lives of every person, every day. It's a bold statement, but it's true. From the smartphones in our pockets that access the world's collective knowledge, to the cloud-based services where all that information lives, to high-speed wireless communication and computing power needed to drive artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, gaming and so much more, our technology is all around us.

We design, develop, manufacture, and service highly complex, cutting-edge machines used by our customers to create the essential devices that drive the digital age, connect the world, and improve the human experience. Along with the world's leading technology companies, many of which are household names, we help solve their most difficult material science challenges, enabling technologies for a more connected, sustainable, and convenient world.

We're looking for material difference-makers to join our growing team. Interested? Learn more at

OVERVIEW

Improving the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of laser spike annealing systems requires deep expertise across applied physics, high-power lasers, optical measurement, and optomechanical design. As a Senior Research Scientist, you will turn complex technical and customer challenges into validated system and subsystem solutions, from early concept through prototype testing and product transition. Your work will strengthen Veeco's laser-based semiconductor processing technology by expanding system capability, resolving critical performance issues, and improving customer outcomes. You will shape experiments, design decisions, and technical roadmaps while working across optical, electrical, mechanical, product marketing, and technical support teams.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the design and validation of laser spike annealing system and subsystem improvements that advance performance, reliability, and product capability.

• Translate complex engineering and customer problems into experimental plans, technical requirements, risk assessments, and clear development recommendations.

• Design, integrate, and test prototypes, assemblies, optical diagnostics, and optomechanical components from concept through verification.

• Own laboratory experiments and data analysis, using results to identify root causes, guide design decisions, and define next-step development work.

• Diagnose precision-system performance issues across optical, electrical, mechanical, software, and process interfaces, then drive solutions with cross-functional partners.

• Convert customer needs and field findings into technology development and transition plans that align research, product, and service teams.

• Serve as a technical resource for customers, suppliers, and strategic partners, communicating findings and recommendations with clarity and sound technical judgment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in physics, applied physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related field, plus at least three years of relevant industry or applied research experience or a Master's degree and six years of experience is required. Hands-on experience with high-power laser systems, optical measurement, laboratory prototyping, and precision-system testing is also required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Deep knowledge of laser physics, optical systems, optomechanical components, measurement methods, and laboratory safety practices.

• Skilled at designing experiments, analyzing incomplete or complex data, and converting results into defensible engineering decisions.

• Proficient in precision-system troubleshooting, including isolating interactions among hardware, software, controls, optics, and process conditions.

• Experienced with design and analysis tools used for optical, mechanical, system, or experimental development.

• Able to distill complex technical findings into clear written summaries, design reviews, and recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences.

• Effective at guiding cross-functional work across research, engineering, product marketing, technical support, customers, and suppliers without direct authority.

• Knowledge of semiconductor fabrication, thermal processing, or capital equipment development is preferred.
• Experience using programming for instrument control, data acquisition, automation, or technical analysis.

• Ability to travel internationally up to 30% and work for extended periods in a Class 1000 cleanroom environment.

Salary and Benefits
The expected salary range for this position is $165,000-$205,000, plus a bonus opportunity. We will consider your location, experience, and other job-related factors when determining your pay. If your salary requirements exceed the advertised range and you remain interested in Veeco, we encourage you to apply or email your resume to View email address on click.appcast.io.

Other benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Holiday, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Commuter Benefits
• Life and Accident Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Identity Theft Remediation
• Emergency Travel Assistance

Veeco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected characteristics. Veecois committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

Notice to Applicants:
All communication about open positions and hiring will come from someone with a @veeco.com email address. You will always have multiple interviews and meet several team members (in-person or virtually) before we present an offer. We may also check references or conduct a background investigation as part of the offer process. We will never ask you for money for any reason, especially to send equipment or for pre-employment training. If you have any questions or concerns, or if someone has reached out to you and you think it might be a scam, please get in touch with us View email address on click.appcast.io.