Senior Research Scientist
About The Position
As a Senior Research Scientist, you will improve the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of Veeco’s laser spike annealing systems. You will apply expertise across applied physics, high-power lasers, optical measurement, and optomechanical design to turn technical and customer challenges into validated system and subsystem solutions, from early concept through prototype testing and product transition. The work will strengthen Veeco’s laser-based semiconductor processing technology by expanding system capability, resolving performance issues, and improving customer outcomes. You will shape experiments, design decisions, and technical roadmaps while collaborating with optical, electrical, mechanical, product marketing, and technical support teams.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in physics, applied physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related field, plus at least three years of relevant industry or applied research experience; alternatively, a master’s degree and six years of experience.
- Hands-on experience with high-power laser systems, optical measurement, laboratory prototyping, and precision-system testing.
- Deep knowledge of laser physics, optical systems, optomechanical components, measurement methods, and laboratory safety practices.
- Skill in designing experiments, analyzing incomplete or complex data, and translating results into defensible engineering decisions.
- Proficiency in precision-system troubleshooting, including isolating interactions among hardware, software, controls, optics, and process conditions.
- Experience with design and analysis tools used for optical, mechanical, system, or experimental development.
- Ability to communicate complex technical findings through clear written summaries, design reviews, and recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences.
- Ability to guide cross-functional work across research, engineering, product marketing, technical support, customers, and suppliers without direct authority.
- Ability to travel internationally up to 30%.
- Ability to work for extended periods in a Class 1000 cleanroom environment.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of semiconductor fabrication, thermal processing, or capital equipment development.
- Experience using programming for instrument control, data acquisition, automation, or technical analysis.
Responsibilities
- Lead design and validation of laser spike annealing system and subsystem improvements that advance performance, reliability, and product capability.
- Translate engineering and customer problems into experimental plans, technical requirements, risk assessments, and development recommendations.
- Design, integrate, and test prototypes, assemblies, optical diagnostics, and optomechanical components from concept through verification.
- Own laboratory experiments and data analysis to identify root causes, guide design decisions, and define further development work.
- Diagnose precision-system performance issues across optical, electrical, mechanical, software, and process interfaces, and drive solutions with cross-functional partners.
- Convert customer needs and field findings into technology development and transition plans aligned with research, product, and service teams.
- Serve as a technical resource for customers, suppliers, and strategic partners, communicating findings and recommendations clearly.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Holiday, vacation, and sick time.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
- Commuter benefits.
- Life and accident insurance.
- Disability insurance.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Identity theft remediation.
- Emergency travel assistance.
- Bonus opportunity.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
