Optics Manufacturing Engineer

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 made it into your hands 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 we invest 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.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

We are seeking an experienced Optics Manufacturing Engineer to lead the integration, alignment, and manufacturing readiness of precision optical modules for high-resolution imaging systems. This hands-on role bridges optics engineering and manufacturing, with a focus on optics supplier management, test fixture maintenance, manufacturing process development, and quality control.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and support the incoming quality process for precision optics modules and their integration into high-resolution imaging systems.
• Collaborate with Systems, Optics, and Software Engineers to solve manufacturing issues.
• Lead the integration and alignment of optical modules; design, develop, and maintain test fixtures to support system-level validation and ensure long-term sustainability of legacy equipment.
• Establish, implement, and sustain best-known methods (BKMs) for the fabrication of parts, components, subassemblies, and final assemblies.
• Conduct failure analysis on optical assemblies, implement corrective actions, and present findings to internal teams and external suppliers.
• Deliver training and technical guidance to Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians.
• Analyze manufacturing data using Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and apply statistical process control (SPC) to drive improvements in processes, specifications, and designs.
• Lead small cross-functional teams to address product-level optical system issues in manufacturing environments.
• Interpret design drawings and schematics; perform basic updates to models or drawings using CAD tools. Understand and interpret system-level models related to error budgets, sensitivity, and throughput.
• May require up to 30% travel, both domestically and internationally, primarily to engage with optics suppliers and occasionally with customers.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree in applied optics, applied physics or related fields
• Proven experience in manufacturing or system design of high-complexity, low-volume capital equipment especially with optics alignment and metrology using high-resolution alignment telescopes.
• Comfortable with optics design software such as Zemax, Code V or Light Tools.
• Effective communicator with good interpersonal skills. Extensive hands-on experience in build and test of optical inspection or metrology tools.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes including optics fabrication and opto-mechanical modules.
• Strong communication skills and experience working with global, interdisciplinary teams.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 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

Base Pay Range: $105,300.00 - $179,000.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

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 [email protected] or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees.  KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings.  KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers.  If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to [email protected] to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.