2026 New College Grad - Mechanical Engineer III - PhD (Santa Clara, CA)
About The Position
Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. As a Mechanical Engineer, you’ll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and materials science to process and resolve mechanical problems, design and implement custom mechanical tooling and associated processes, and enable the handling, assembly, and disassembly of parts, components, sub-assemblies, and final assemblies throughout the product life cycle. You'll be responsible for designing, developing, and modifying mechanical engineering layouts, schematics, and specifications. You will oversee manufacturing and installation processes, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations-- and you'll coordinate the procurement and assembly of mechanical components and equipment for design projects, identifying sources of critical parts and subsystems to resolve technical issues. As a Mechanical Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, working with a team of talented professionals to solve complex problems. You’ll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and materials science to design and optimize mechanical devices, machines, and systems. You will take on exciting challenges, from conducting research and analyzing data to creating detailed technical drawings and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. You will oversee manufacturing and installation processes, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations. Your keen eye for detail and commitment to excellence will enable you to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, making a tangible impact on the success of our projects. We empower our mechanical engineers to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Engineering Careers page to learn more about engineering at Applied. Our Mechanical Engineer Development Program provides training on routine assignments under the guidance of senior engineers. You will develop competence in the role by performing structured work assignments while using existing procedures to solve both routine and standard problems. As part of the development program, you will build strong working relationships across teams and participate in hands-on projects and technical seminars to build your skills and career path in the fast-growing semiconductor industry.
Requirements
- Graduating with a Ph.D’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
- Good academic standing with a GPA of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale
Nice To Haves
- Previous exposure to 3D CAD tool
- Experience on mechanical/thermal/flow analysis
- Previous internship or related field experience
- Demonstrated leadership experience
- Able to solve complex problems and take a new perspective on existing solutions
- Ability to exercise judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information
- Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus
- Flexible and adaptable mindset who thrives in a results-driven culture
Responsibilities
- Own mechanical design of tool subassemblies and modules (chambers, heaters, pedestals, gas panels, shields, frames)
- Perform 3D CAD design and release (NX / UG preferred)
- Execute tolerance analysis, stack‑ups, and GD&T
- Conduct FEA / thermal / structural / flow analysis as needed
- Drive prototype build, lab testing, and validation
- Support design reviews and ELS/HVM readiness
- Interface with: Manufacturing & supply chain Process Engineering Systems, EE, Safety, Reliability
- Support field/customer escalations with root‑cause fixes
- Create and maintain drawings, BOMs, specs, ECRs/ECOs
- Ensure design for manufacturability, serviceability, cost, and reliability
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
