Principal Optical Engineer

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

Job Summary:

The Principal Optical Engineer will lead the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge optical metrology solutions for semiconductor manufacturing processes. The role involves working closely with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure the precision and accuracy of optical systems for measuring wafer features, ensuring high throughput, and maintaining alignment with the company’s production goals. As a subject matter expert, the Principal Optical Engineer will contribute to strategic product development, system optimization, and process improvements to meet the evolving needs of semiconductor fabrication and inspection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Optical System Design: Lead the design, simulation, and optimization of advanced optical systems for metrology and inspection tools used in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Development of Metrology Solutions: Develop and implement optical measurement techniques, such as interferometry, ellipsometry, or scatterometry, for high-precision wafer inspection and process control.
• Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: Work with mechanical, electrical, software, and process engineers to integrate optical systems into semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
• Performance Optimization: Evaluate and optimize the performance of optical systems to improve accuracy, throughput, and reliability in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Prototyping and Testing: Lead prototyping efforts for new optical metrology tools, conducting tests to validate designs and analyzing results to identify areas for improvement.
• Technology Roadmapping: Contribute to the development of long-term technology roadmaps for optical metrology systems, aligning with both company goals and industry advancements.
• Vendor and Supplier Management: Interface with vendors and suppliers to source optical components and ensure they meet the necessary specifications for semiconductor manufacturing.
• Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving: Provide advanced technical guidance for troubleshooting complex optical system issues and implement corrective actions.
• Documentation and Compliance: Develop detailed documentation for optical system designs, processes, and best practices, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Provide technical leadership to junior engineers and cross-disciplinary teams, offering mentorship and fostering innovation.

Qualifications

Education & Certifications:

• Ph.D. in Applied Physics or a related field (e.g., Engineering, Physics, Optical Systems).
• B.S. in Physics or Engineering with highest honors preferred.
• Mini-MBA or equivalent business management training is a plus.
• U.S. Patents or a proven track record of innovation is desirable.

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in technical leadership roles such as Systems Engineer, Director of Engineering, or Senior Technologist.
• Proven track record in managing complex, multidisciplinary technical projects from concept through design and manufacturing.
• Expertise in optical systems, satellite communication systems, molecular scanning technologies, and fluidics platforms.
• Experience leading and developing teams of engineers, including cross-functional coordination between hardware, software, and biochemistry teams.
• Hands-on experience with project management tasks such as PRD, risk mitigation, FMEA, BOM development, verification, and validation protocols.
• Proven ability to develop and manage budgets, work instructions, and vendor relationships.

Technical Skills:

• Strong background in systems engineering, optics, robotics, machine vision, and automation.
• Proficiency in image processing, camera calibration, optical alignment, and fluid handling systems.
• Experience with manufacturing transfer processes, including the development of calibration and validation methodologies.
• Expertise in failure analysis, risk management, and quality control methodologies such as Six Sigma.
• Hands-on experience with software tools for robotics calibration, automation, and image alignment.

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and team-building skills with experience in mentoring and coaching technical teams.
• Ability to distill complex scientific and technical ideas into actionable tasks.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for collaboration with cross-functional teams and external vendors.

Additional Experience:

• Experience working in biotech, semiconductor, metrology, or defense industries is highly desirable.
• Previous experience consulting or working in project-based environments is a plus.
• Experience with patent development and intellectual property management.

Onto Innovation Inc. offers competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, including health/dental/vision/life/disability, PTO, 401K plan with employer match, and an Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) along with health & wellness initiatives. We provide a collaborative working environment along with resources, and state-of-the-art tools & equipment to promote success; and a welcoming, inclusive corporate culture where individuals are recognized for their contributions.

Onto Innovation Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.

For positions requiring access to technical data, Onto Innovation Inc., Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce - Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the U.S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this position – except US Citizens, US Permanent Residents, and protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) – may have to go through an export licensing review process.