Optical Systems Engineer
About The Position
Axcelis is seeking a highly motivated Optical Systems Engineer to lead the development of advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for semiconductor equipment and metrology applications. This role will be responsible for creating innovative optical solutions that enable next-generation process control, wafer alignment, materials characterization, and implant verification technologies. The successful candidate will serve as the company's principal optical expert, translating physical concepts into practical, manufacturable systems. They will work across disciplines including mechanical, electrical, software, controls, process, and systems engineering to develop optical instruments from initial concept through prototype validation and production deployment. This is a hands-on role requiring both deep theoretical knowledge and practical engineering execution.
Requirements
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
- 8+ years of experience developing complex optical systems.
- Strong understanding of: Geometrical optics; Physical optics; Imaging systems; Lasers and photonics; and Optical metrology
- Experience moving systems from concept through prototype and validation.
- Demonstrated ability to perform both theoretical analysis and hands-on experimental work.
- Experience developing optical test methods and calibration techniques.
- Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
- Programming experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar scientific computing tools.
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal technical guidance.
Nice To Haves
- Semiconductor equipment or semiconductor metrology experience.
- Experience using Zemax, Code V, FRED, COMSOL, or similar modeling tools.
- Experience designing opto-mechanical assemblies for industrial environments.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis and measurement-system validation.
- Experience developing production-worthy systems from early-stage research concepts.
Responsibilities
- Lead the architecture, design, analysis, and development of optical systems for semiconductor manufacturing and metrology applications.
- Develop novel optical approaches for process monitoring, wafer alignment, implant verification, materials characterization, and related applications.
- Perform optical modeling, simulation, tolerancing, and performance analysis using appropriate engineering tools.
- Design and specify optical subsystems, including: Lasers and illumination systems; Polarization optics; Imaging systems; Spectroscopic systems; Sensors and detectors; and Optical assemblies and calibration methodologies
- Build and evaluate proof-of-concept systems and engineering prototypes.
- Develop experimental plans, execute measurements, analyze data, and draw conclusions from complex physical phenomena.
- Convert laboratory concepts into robust, manufacturable systems suitable for semiconductor production environments.
- Define system requirements and performance budgets.
- Work closely with mechanical, electrical, software, controls, and process engineers to implement complete solutions.
- Support vendor selection and development of custom optical components and assemblies.
- Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and system-level issues during development and deployment.
- Generate technical documentation, design reviews, specifications, test procedures, and engineering reports.
- Evaluate intellectual property, technical risks, and competitive technologies related to optical systems.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship in optical engineering across the organization.
Benefits
- Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan
- Comprehensive benefits package (for regular employees working 20+ hours a week)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
