Modeling Engineer - Plasma Etch, Machine Learning

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

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You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

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Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD-level scientist or engineer to develop and apply advanced modeling capabilities for plasma processing applications, including plasma etching, plasma-enhanced deposition, and atomic layer etching (ALE). This role focuses on understanding, modeling, and predicting plasma–surface interaction processes using a combination of physics-based methods and data-driven approaches.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with atomistic and mesoscale modeling techniques such as ab initio quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics (MD), and kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC). In addition, the candidate will be expected to develop and deploy machine learning (ML) models trained on data generated from large-scale, multi-dimensional high-performance computing (HPC) simulations, complemented by experimental measurements.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of first-principles modeling, large-scale simulation, and modern AI/ML methods, contributing directly to accelerated technology and product development in the fast-paced semiconductor equipment industry.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Engineering (e.g., Chemical, Materials, Mechanical) or Science (e.g., Physics, Chemistry); exceptional MS candidates with relevant experience will be considered
• Demonstrated experience modeling plasma–surface or gas–surface interaction processes using ab initio quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics, and/or kinetic Monte Carlo methods
• Strong background in machine learning, particularly in the context of scientific computing or HPC environments
• Experience working with large, complex simulation datasets and integrating modeling results with experimental data

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply advanced models for plasma etching, deposition, and plasma-based surface modification processes
• Combine physics-based and ML-driven approaches to improve process understanding and predictive capability
• Collaborate closely with experimental teams to guide process development and interpret new experimental results
• Contribute to the development, validation, and maintenance of internal software tools, modeling frameworks, and best practices
• Communicate modeling results clearly and effectively to multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, engineers, and major customers

Additional Information

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The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at [email protected], or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.