Systems Architect (Optics)

Nova • Austin, TX

7d

About The Position

Nova is seeking a Systems Architect for its Optics group, which develops the optical paths of high-end optical metrology tools, from light sources and core optical components to sensors. The role leads system-level development and integration for multidisciplinary solutions used in semiconductor manufacturing process control. Work spans research, characterization, concept design, feasibility studies, final design, and qualification, with parallel research, design, and engineering activities.

The position combines theoretical and experimental research with system architecture, performance budgeting, algorithm development, integration, testing, and troubleshooting. It involves close collaboration across physics, optics, algorithms, mechanics, electronics, and software, as well as hands-on experiments in a clean-room environment, manufacturing support, and occasional customer travel. The advertised annual pay range is $190,000–$215,000, depending on experience.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Physics or Engineering, such as Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in experimental and theoretical research applied to real-world systems.
• Experience with optics and ellipsometry.
• At least 5 years of experience in multidisciplinary system development within advanced-technology R&D environments.
• Demonstrated ownership of system-level development, including architecture definition, performance analysis, and cross-disciplinary integration.
• Deep understanding of multidisciplinary systems involving physics, optics, algorithms, electronics, mechanics, and software.
• Advanced experience in data analysis and modeling, including signal processing, statistical analysis, and interpretation of experimental data.
• Experience developing algorithms and integrating them into real systems.
• Proactive and self-driven, with comfort working in high-ambiguity environments.

Responsibilities

• Study new system methods and algorithms theoretically and experimentally to support advanced solutions.
• Define, drive, and own end-to-end implementation and validation of system solutions across disciplines.
• Lead system architecture definition and performance budgeting.
• Drive cross-functional technical decisions across optics, algorithms, mechanics, and software.
• Serve as the technical focal point for system-level trade-offs and escalations.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers in system thinking and methodology.
• Conduct hands-on tool experiments and testing in a clean-room environment.
• Provide service and production guidance and support on challenging topics.
• Lead cross-functional hardware, software, and algorithm teams to deliver system-level solutions.
• Perform data and statistical analysis, advanced logic and sequence design, algorithm development, and performance and critical-behavior testing.
• Develop practical methods and solutions for critical challenges.
• Conduct laboratory and on-site system diagnostics, troubleshooting, and problem-solving, including root-cause analysis, mitigation plans, robust system calibration, and product transfer to manufacturing.
• Translate customers’ high-level requirements into technical specifications and designs.
• Travel by air to customer sites around the world, up to twice per year.

What This Job Offers

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