Lead and complete sophisticated failure analysis investigations for manufacturing and field critical issues, including contamination, coating or substrate damage, materials degradation, and supply-related materials issues.
Apply sophisticated materials characterization and analytical techniques, including SEM/FIB, TEM, EDS, SIMS, XPS, Auger, FTIR, Raman, UV‑Vis spectroscopy, optical microscopy, white‑light interferometry, and chromatography (GC/LC), to resolve failure mechanisms and root causes.
Correlate analytical data with process history, manufacturing conditions, and field usage to develop comprehensive root‑cause models and actionable conclusions.
Collaborating with internal customers from various divisions on material selection, develop feasibility review, supplier qualification and production ramp.
Build, develop, and validate new test methods, analytical workflows, and materials characterization capabilities to improve diagnostic efficiency and expand CMAG's technical reach.
Clearly document and communicate findings through technical reports, presentations, and multi-functional reviews, influencing engineering and business decisions.
Requirements
Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering
Demonstrated hands‑on expertise in failure analysis and materials characterization, including SEM/FIB, TEM, SIMS, XPS, FTIR, Raman, UV‑Vis, and optical microscopy.
Strong understanding of instrument fundamentals, data interpretation.
Experience in chemistry, materials science, and surface science, including solid‑state chemistry, thin films, coatings, optical materials, and photon-matter interactions.
Exposure to contamination control, coating damage, metallurgy, optical and mechanical systems, semiconductor manufacturing processes, and industry quality standards is helpful.
Applying root‑cause methodologies (e.g., 8D, structured problem solving ) in manufacturing or high‑reliability environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills ; ability to work effectively in a multi‑disciplinary, multi‑cultural, global organization.
10% Domestic and International travel for training, supplier engagement, project execution, and global support.
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: $106,700.00 - $181,400.00 Annually
Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA
Benefits
Dental insuranceVision insurance401(k)Paid time offFlexible scheduleEquity / stock options
Additional Information
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
In this role, you'll take the lead on sophisticated failure analysis, diving into contamination and challenges across a diverse set of products and manufacturing environments. Using sophisticated analytical and characterization techniques, you'll uncover root causes, influence corrective actions, and help shape durable, long-term solutions.
You'll be in a true hands-on role, connecting lab insights to real engineering impact and seeing your work directly improve product performance. If you're someone who is energized by solving tough, real-world problems and uncovering what others can't, this is the kind of work where you'll thrive!
With a solid foundation in materials science or chemistry, you'll work across teams in a fast-paced environment where your expertise is both valued and transparent. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact while continuously pushing the boundaries of what's possible!
Kla · Milpitas, CA