Optical Architect

Nova Ltd.•Austin, TX

1d•$150,000 - $180,000

About The Position

Nova’s optics group is seeking an Optical Architect to lead diverse development activities for high-end, multidisciplinary optical metrology tools. The group is responsible for the tools’ complete optical paths, from light sources through core optical components to sensors, and develops high-performance systems using elements from multiple optics disciplines. The role spans research and characterization, concept design and feasibility studies, final design, and qualification. The Optical Architect serves as the team’s technical authority, leads research, designs, deliveries, and support, and takes responsibility for light sources, optical fibers, and optical modules. The role also coordinates with vendors and surrounding hardware and system teams to align delivery of opto-mechanical and electro-optical modules. The successful candidate will represent the optics team throughout development, including concept and feasibility studies, specification definition, design reviews, and test reviews. They will own documentation needed to transfer deliverables to production and service, such as operational descriptions and diagrams, alignment and test procedures, and troubleshooting guides. Nova describes its work as developing metrology solutions for semiconductor manufacturing and says it employs expertise across physics, mathematics, algorithms, software, and hardware.

Requirements

MSc or PhD in Physics or Optical Engineering.
At least 5 years of practical, hands-on industry experience developing and characterizing complex systems, including light sources, imaging and illumination systems, and sensors.
Experience designing and implementing laboratory setups to measure optical effects and performance.
Proficiency with MATLAB and/or Python; Python is preferred.
Knowledge of Spectral Ellipsometric systems and elements.
Independent and proactive working style.
Methodical and organized approach.
Ability to collaborate with system and hardware teams.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of optical design software such as Zemax or CodeV.
Experience with equipment for the semiconductor industry.
Strong problem-solving and debugging skills.
Independent, motivated, and enthusiastic about breakthroughs.
Fast learner.

Responsibilities

Lead optics team research, designs, deliveries, and support.
Act as the technical authority for the team’s activities.
Develop physical models.
Conduct optical system design.
Perform simulations and analyses of tool-related physical effects.
Conduct laboratory tests for feasibility studies, root-cause analysis, and design qualifications.
Take full responsibility for light sources, optical fibers, and optical modules.
Manage vendors and control their activities.
Establish strong interfaces with hardware and system teams to align delivery of combined opto-mechanical and electro-optical modules.
Represent the optics team in concept and feasibility studies, specification definition, design reviews, and test reviews.
Own documentation supporting transfer to production and service, including operational descriptions and diagrams, alignment and test procedures, and troubleshooting guides.