R&D Analytical Chemistry Manager

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 QualificationsR&D Analytical Chemistry ManagerLead Innovation. Shape Technology. Inspire a Team.We are seeking a visionary and hands-on R&D leader to drive the next generation of analytical chemistry solutions. In this role, you will lead and mentor a highly skilled team while remaining deeply engaged in laboratory research, helping shape cutting-edge analytical applications that support advanced metallization, cleaning, and etching technologies.This is a unique opportunity for a scientific leader who thrives at the intersection of people leadership, technical excellence, and innovation—and who is motivated by seeing ideas move from concept to real-world impact.What You’ll DoLead and empower a high-performing R&D team, fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Design and develop innovative analytical applications and chemical analyzers for advanced process solutions.Drive product differentiation by creating and protecting intellectual property, including patents, proprietary know-how, and technical frameworks.Stay at the forefront of analytical chemistry, continuously tracking emerging technologies, methods, and customer needs.Collaborate directly with customers, participating in technology alignment discussions and translating real-world challenges into impactful solutions.Publish and represent the organization externally, contributing to scientific and industrial journals and presenting at conferences.Expand products into new markets and enhance capabilities for existing customers.Partner cross-functionally with other departments to ensure seamless product development, deployment, and support.Plan, execute, and analyze experiments, translating results into clear technical reports and actionable insights.Support documentation, testing, and qualification of equipment to ensure reliability and performance.Remain hands-on in the laboratory, balancing strategic leadership with active technical contribution to maintain scientific excellence.What You BringProven people leadership experience, with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop technical teams.Strong project management skills, capable of driving complex initiatives from concept to completion.Deep hands-on expertise in analytical chemistry, particularly liquid-phase characterization, method development, and validation.Ph.D. in Chemistry or a closely related field; engineering experience is a strong plus.A strong innovation track record, demonstrated by approximately 5 patent families and/or 10 peer‑reviewed scientific publications.A creative, solutions-oriented mindset, with a passion for solving complex problems through literature research and cross-industry thinking.Comfort balancing strategic oversight with hands-on laboratory work to support research, mentor the team, and ensure technical rigor.Why This Role Stands OutInfluence both technology strategy and day-to-day scientific executionLead innovation that directly impacts customers and global marketsCombine people leadership, IP creation, and advanced analytical science in one roleWork with a collaborative, multidisciplinary organization committed to technical excellenceMinimum QualificationsPh.D. + 5 years experienceBase Pay Range: $150,700.00 - $256,200.00 AnnuallyPrimary Location: USA-NJ-Totowa-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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