Product Applications Development Engineer

Company OverviewKLA 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 QualificationsPosition OverviewAs an Applications Development Engineer in the KLA Instruments organization, you will develop, validate, and demonstrate advanced applications for existing and next‑generation metrology systems. You will play a critical role in new product introduction (NPI), working closely with engineering, product management, marketing, and global applications teams to ensure our tools deliver maximum value to customers.This role is based in Milpitas, with hands‑on access to development tools and close collaboration with R&D. Occasional customer and regional support travel is expected.Key ResponsibilitiesProduct & Applications DevelopmentDevelop and implement new applications for pre‑release and released Instruments products, including stylus profilers, optical profilers, thin‑film reflectometers, sheet‑resistance tools, and related platformsDesign and execute characterization, feature, and verification test plans for NPI programs (alpha, beta, and ramp phases)Analyze measurement data, identify performance gaps, and provide clear, actionable feedback to hardware, software, and systems engineering teamsGenerate application notes, Best Known Methods (BKMs), characterization reports, and internal technical documentationNPI & Program ExecutionLead or support alpha and beta testing for new products and features, including test definition, sample selection, execution, and reportingSupport demo and pilot tools during ramp, ensuring readiness for customer evaluations and early adoptersParticipate in cross‑functional design reviews, trade‑off discussions, and roadmap alignment with Product Management and MarketingCustomer & Field EnablementSupport customer demos, head‑to‑head comparisons, and value demonstrations to drive product adoptionInvestigate customer process and application challenges and translate them into effective metrology solutionsDevelop and deliver technical training for field applications engineers, channel partners, service teams, and customersProvide on‑site or remote customer support as neededCollaboration & Knowledge TransferAct as a technical bridge between Engineering, Marketing, Sales, Field Applications or Channel Partners, and CustomersTransfer application knowledge globally to regional applications teams, channel partners through documentation, training, and technical reviewsContribute to use‑case development, marketing collateral, and value messaging for Instruments productsRequired QualificationsBS, MS, or PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical fieldStrong hands‑on experimental skills and data analysis experienceAbility to independently design experiments, analyze results, and communicate conclusions clearlyStrong written and verbal communication skillsWillingness to travel internationally and domestically (typically 10–40%, depending on project phase)Preferred QualificationsExperience with semiconductor or advanced materials metrology (stylus profiling, optical profiling, film thickness, resistivity, surface analysis, etc.)Familiarity with NPI / PLC processes and structured product development environmentsExperience supporting customer demos, evaluations, or beta toolsProgramming or scripting experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for data analysis is a plusMinimum QualificationsDoctorate (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 yearsBase Pay Range: $120,000.00 - $204,000.00 AnnuallyPrimary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLA’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 talent.acquisition@kla.com 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 talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. 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