Application Engineer

Applied Materials • Santa Clara, CA

1d • $147,000 - $202,500 • Onsite

About The Position

Applied Materials is seeking an experienced Senior Application Engineer to support advanced materials characterization and failure analysis across semiconductor and high-technology applications. The role provides technical expertise, application development, customer support, and problem-solving for characterization tools including SEM, FIB, ICP/MS, X-ray/CT, and related analytical techniques. It will help expand technical capabilities, support customer escalations, drive application innovation, and enable adoption of next-generation characterization technologies.

The position is based in Santa Clara, California, offers a stated salary range of $147,000 to $202,500, and requires travel 20% of the time. Relocation is eligible. The role is full-time and regular.

Requirements

• Strong hands-on experience with scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Strong hands-on experience with materials characterization.
• Strong hands-on experience with failure analysis.
• Strong hands-on experience with image analysis and metrology.
• Tool troubleshooting capability.
• MS or PhD in materials science, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related technical discipline; alternatively, a BS degree with significant industry experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with SEM/EDX.
• Experience with focused ion beam (FIB).
• Experience with CT-Xray.
• Experience with ICP-MS.
• Experience with surface analysis techniques.
• Experience with optical microscopy.
• Experience with statistical data analysis.
• Programming or scripting for data automation.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a subject matter expert for materials characterization and failure analysis techniques.
• Support development and optimization of analytical methodologies.
• Lead complex troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for customer and internal projects.
• Develop best practices, operating procedures, and application notes.
• Develop characterization workflows for semiconductor devices, packaging, interconnects, and advanced materials.
• Evaluate new technologies and emerging applications.
• Work with R&D, product engineering, process engineering, and manufacturing teams.
• Provide expert-level support for customer demonstrations, evaluations, and escalations.
• Deliver technical presentations and training programs.
• Participate in customer visits and strategic technical discussions.
• Partner with engineering, marketing, and product management teams.
• Support new tool adoption and technology roadmaps.
• Mentor junior application engineers and assist with technical skill development.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Eligible candidates may be considered for participation in a bonus program and a stock award program, as applicable.
• Relocation eligible.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior