Systems Engineer IV - Optical Lithography

About the role

Applied Materials is hiring a Systems Engineer IV in Santa Clara, CA, to support product development of a complex, high-performance optical lithography system used in the advanced packaging market. The role covers all phases of the product development cycle, from customer requirements and system specifications through design, prototyping, verification, validation, manufacturing, installation and field support. It requires in-depth technical knowledge of advanced optical products in a volume manufacturing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Identify the scope, constraints and risks for design, fabrication, testing and volume production of advanced optical components.
• Lead subsystem and optical assembly projects, planning, scheduling and monitoring them with cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with suppliers on critical optical sub-assemblies and derive design specifications for subsystems, modules and components.
• Maintain error budgets and define subsystem requirements for alpha testing, and run system-level experiments and DOE to validate error budgets and mitigate performance risks.
• Define and execute test plans for prototype acceptance and qualification, and troubleshoot complex system issues in manufacturing and the field.
• Implement new diagnostics and calibrations, and develop optical metrology hardware and software for automated measurement.
• Support manufacturing and customer site teams, write technical reports and recommend solutions.

Required profile

• MS or PhD in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 4 to 10 years of experience.
• Hands-on experience designing, assembling, calibrating and using complex opto-mechanical instrumentation with light sources, optical sensors, lenses and filters.
• Experience designing test plans and concept and feasibility studies, and strong troubleshooting skills.
• Preferred: image processing, SW automation, Claude code and other AI tools, optical metrology development, and experience supporting manufacturing and service organizations through training and documentation.

Required skills

• Data analysis and data visualization.
• Programming and scripting, such as Matlab and Python.
• System and subsystem software debugging from error messages and logs.
• Ability to manage multiple projects at once and lead multi-disciplinary teams.

What we offer

• Salary of $161,000 to $221,000, depending on location, hire grade, knowledge, skills and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, with possible bonus and stock award participation.
• Full-time position, with travel of about 10% of the time and relocation eligibility.