Principal Systems Engineer

Onto Innovation•Wilmington, MA

3d•$144,000 - $216,000

About The Position

Onto Innovation is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to independently contribute to developing complex automated optical inspection and metrology platforms for the semiconductor industry. The role calls for deep expertise in several areas, including 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 work with program management and cross-functional teams to execute engineering activities and deliver successful projects. The position requires at least 10 years of experience in high-precision optical or semiconductor capital equipment, or related industries. A PhD is preferred, or an advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. International travel to customer sites is required at least 20% of the time, with additional travel as business needs require. Onto Innovation offers a competitive salary and benefits package, with a stated base salary range of $144,000 to $216,000, depending on experience, location, and qualifications. Additional rewards include annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives. The company describes its culture as collaborative and inclusive, and highlights employee well-being and equal opportunity.

Requirements

PhD preferred, or an advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
10 or more 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.
Strong initiative, teamwork, creative problem-solving, and ability to lead and complete complex projects independently.
Detail orientation and 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.

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 in 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.