Senior Research Scientist

Veeco•San Jose, CA

1d•$165,000 - $205,000

About The Position

The Senior Research Scientist will improve the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of Veeco’s laser spike annealing systems. The role turns technical and customer challenges into validated system and subsystem solutions, from early concepts through prototype testing and product transition. The work advances Veeco’s laser-based semiconductor processing technology by expanding system capability, resolving performance issues, and improving customer outcomes. The scientist shapes experiments, design decisions, and technical roadmaps while collaborating across optical, electrical, mechanical, product marketing, and technical support teams. The position also serves as a technical resource for customers, suppliers, and strategic partners. The role requires international travel of up to 30% and the ability to work for extended periods in a Class 1000 cleanroom environment.

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.
Ability to design experiments, analyze incomplete or complex data, and convert 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% and 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 the design and validation of laser spike annealing system and subsystem improvements to advance performance, reliability, and product capability.
Translate complex 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 next-step 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 and with sound technical judgment.