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

Integrates hardware and electrical subsystems with software to enable the desired functionality of existing and emerging products and technologies. Qualifies new product configurations and specifications, with an emphasis on performance and reliability. Assesses health of installed systems at customer locations. May present status summaries to customers and colleagues. Works with 'headquarters' on broader schedules and activities. Provides feedback to company resources on issues and may suggest plan of action. It requires strong system-level knowledge and analytical ability, while working with other experts within the organization to develop highly effective, efficient solutions. Projects include optical inspection and metrology systems using a wide range of optical technologies. Healthy collaboration will include all stakeholders, from customers and marketing through supply chain, production, field service and applications engineering. Travels frequently (>50%) to customer locations in support of these activities.

Qualifications

Must be a proactive self-starter and excellent team player capable of leading and efficiently completing complex projects.

This position requires strong problem solving and creative skills and the ability to exercise sound judgment, making decisions based on accurate, quantitative, and timely analyses.

The candidate should have great attention to detail and the ability to thoroughly and completely document the work.

The candidate should have good understanding of SW systems, calibrations, and some tool log analysis.

MS/Ph.D. degree in mechanical, optical or electrical engineering, physics, or other relevant discipline.

6+ years’ experience in high precision optical or semiconductor capital instruments, or related experience.

Excellent collaboration skills to develop system level requirements, leading to clear project goals and deliverables.

Strong skills in ideation and brainstorming, prototyping, developing and releasing of complex systems.

Knowledge in precision equipment, optical inspection, metrology, spectroscopy, ellipsometry and reflectometry is a plus.

Exceptional oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.

Experience using MATLAB, LabVIEW and ZEMAX is a plus.

Ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 50%).

Why Join Onto Innovation?

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Compensation & Growth

• Base Salary Range:

$144,000.00 - $216,000.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.

Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.

Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:

Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.

Important Note on Export Compliance

For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site

Principal Systems Engineer