Staff Applications Engineer

Onto Innovation•Remote-AZ, AZ

1d•$115,200 - $172,800•Hybrid

About The Position

The Staff Application Engineer is responsible for system qualification, process optimization, and customer engagement for advanced semiconductor metrology solutions, with a focus on Onto Innovation platforms (OCD and Thin Film systems). This role requires deep technical expertise in system matching, modeling, and data analysis, combined with strong communication skills to support customer success. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong ownership, analytical problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally while also working independently in fast-paced customer environments.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
Strong knowledge of optical metrology principles
Strong knowledge of thin film/OCD modeling and characterization
Solid understanding of semiconductor processes and manufacturing environments
Proven ability in data analysis, system troubleshooting, and performance optimization
Excellent communication, presentation, and customer-facing skills
Proficiency in JMP
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
Proficiency in PowerPoint
Proficiency in basic scripting (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail
Self-driven with a high sense of ownership
Ability to balance independent work with teamwork
Adaptability in dynamic, customer-driven environments

Nice To Haves

Master's or PhD strongly preferred for advanced process or metrology expertise.
Prior working experience with metrology systems, specifically: OCD (Optical Critical Dimension)
Prior working experience with metrology systems, specifically: Thin Film metrology systems

Responsibilities

Lead system qualification and matching activities across Onto Innovation OCD and thin film metrology systems.
Execute tool-to-tool matching, recipe transfer, and performance validation to meet customer specifications.
Analyze system variation and implement corrective actions to achieve tight process control and repeatability.
Develop, optimize, and maintain OCD and thin film models for semiconductor applications.
Perform modeling validation and ensure accuracy against reference measurements (e.g., CD-SEM, TEM).
Provide technical expertise in optical metrology, thin films, and process characterization.
Utilize statistical and analytical methods to diagnose system performance issues and process deviations.
Drive root cause analysis and implement solutions for tool, process, or modeling discrepancies.
Continuously monitor system performance metrics and recommend improvements.
Interface directly with customers to understand requirements, communicate results, and drive technical solutions.
Deliver clear, concise technical presentations and reports to customers and internal stakeholders.
Build strong customer relationships through professionalism, responsiveness, and technical credibility.
Apply data analysis tools such as JMP, Excel, and other statistical packages for performance evaluation.
Prepare reports and presentations using PowerPoint.
Develop and apply basic scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) for data processing and automation.
Work extensively in semiconductor cleanroom environments for system setup, qualification, and troubleshooting.
Support customers on-site with flexibility to work extended hours when required.
Travel domestically and internationally to support installations, escalations, and customer engagements.
Demonstrate ownership and the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Service, Sales, Engineering, and Software teams to drive customer success.
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing and best practices.