Senior Application Engineer – Materials Characterization

About the role

Applied Materials is seeking a Senior Application Engineer to lead advanced materials characterization and failure analysis for semiconductor and high‑technology applications. You will provide technical expertise, develop applications, and support customers across a portfolio of analytical tools.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as subject‑matter expert for SEM, FIB, ICP‑MS, X‑ray/CT and related techniques.
• Develop and optimize analytical methodologies and characterization workflows for devices, packaging, and advanced materials.
• Lead complex troubleshooting, root‑cause investigations, and customer escalations.
• Deliver technical presentations, training, and support during customer demonstrations and visits.
• Collaborate with R&D, product engineering, marketing and product management to drive innovation and tool adoption.

Required profile

• MS or PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering or related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Strong hands‑on experience with scanning electron microscopy, failure analysis, and image analysis.
• Ability to mentor junior engineers and work cross‑functionally.

Required skills

• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and SEM/EDX
• Focused Ion Beam (FIB)
• CT‑X‑ray, ICP‑MS
• Surface analysis techniques, optical microscopy
• Statistical data analysis and programming/scripting for data automation

What we offer

• Salary range $147,000 – $202,500 per year
• Location: Santa Clara, CA
• Full‑time, supportive work culture with learning and development opportunities