Principal Systems Engineer

Onto Innovation • Wilmington, MA

4d

About The Position

Onto Innovation is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to independently contribute to the development of complex automated optical inspection and metrology platforms for the semiconductor industry. The role calls for deep expertise in areas such as optical or imaging instrument development, semiconductor inspection and metrology, systems engineering, and creative problem-solving.

The engineer will define project goals and technical requirements, develop system architecture, identify and mitigate technical risks, and collaborate with program management to plan and execute engineering activities. The role also applies full-system knowledge and analytical skills to develop solutions, while working cross-functionally with stakeholders in marketing, supply chain, production, field service, and engineering.

The position requires international travel to customer sites at least 20% of the time, with additional travel as business needs require. Onto Innovation offers a comprehensive benefits package, competitive compensation, annual bonus opportunities, and potential long-term incentives.

Requirements

• PhD (preferred) or an advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in high-precision optical or semiconductor capital equipment, or related industries.
• Proven ability to ideate, prototype, and bring complex products to market.
• Strong analytical skills for root cause analysis and solution development.
• Demonstrated experience with cross-functional product development projects.
• Ability to travel internationally to customer sites at least 20% of the time, with additional travel as business needs require.
• Proactive self-starter with strong initiative.
• Effective team player and creative problem solver.
• Ability to lead and complete complex projects independently.
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation skills.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of optical inspection, metrology, spectroscopy, ellipsometry, and reflectometry.
• Experience with MATLAB, LabVIEW, and ZEMAX.
• PhD in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Define project goals and technical requirements.
• Develop system architecture and identify and mitigate technical risks.
• Collaborate with program management to plan and execute engineering activities.
• Apply full-system knowledge and analytical skills to develop effective solutions.
• Work cross-functionally with stakeholders across marketing, supply chain, production, field service, and engineering to ensure project success.
• Travel internationally to customer sites at least 20% of the time, with additional travel as business needs require.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Wellness initiatives.
• Annual bonus opportunities.
• Potential long-term incentives tied to company and individual success.

What This Job Offers

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