Electron Optics Engineer

PDF Solutions•Milpitas, CA

About The Position

PDF Solutions is redefining the way the semiconductor industry approaches data, analytics, and experience design. As part of our journey, we’re building Next gen platform — a modern, human-centered analytics platform. We believe design systems aren’t just about consistency — they’re about scalability, collaboration, and performance. PDF Solutions is seeking an Electron Optics Engineer to drive the R&D, manufacturing and delivery of state-of-the-art eProbe electron beam inspection systems used in semiconductor wafer manufacturing facilities for yield ramp and manufacturing control. The electron optics engineer will be responsible for leading the design and simulation of electron beam inspection systems from concept to high volume manufacturing. A successful candidate will be a highly motivated and self-driven team player with strong analytical skills and possess the drive to deliver high quality results in a dynamic, multi-disciplined and highly productive environment.

Requirements

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, and over 5 years of relevant work experience
Expertise in electron optics and a proven track record in designing and operating electron beam columns
Experience in simulation and experimental characterization of electron sources
Proficiency with electron optics simulation software (eg. MEBS, SIMION)
Experience running finite element software packages (e.g. COMSOL, OPERA)
Proficiency with a scripting language (e.g. Python, Matlab)
Experience with high vacuum systems
Experience with high voltage power supplies and electron beam electronics
Background in surface science and electron-surface interactions
Experience working with semiconductor manufacturing tools

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with voltage contrast imaging
Semiconductor process or cleanroom exposure
Background in signal or image processing

Responsibilities

Simulate electron optics columns and validate models using experimental measurements
Develop new modes of column operation and drive column architecture design improvements
Develop test methodologies, collect experimental data and analyze data sets
Convert findings into clear recommendations for product, process, or algorithm changes
Create system requirements, error budgets and tolerance analysis stack-ups
Define specifications and acceptance tests for critical column components
Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving electron optics, imaging systems, vacuum systems, and electronics
Contribute to continuous improvement of characterization methods, analysis workflows, and tool capabilities
Collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams
Prepare comprehensive technical reports and share findings with internal collaborators
Drive innovation and technology development for next-generation tools