Systems Design Engineer – Optical Imaging Systems R&D

KLA•Milpitas, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a self-motivated Systems Engineer to join the RAPID Advanced Technology team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and validating system‑level performance for next-generation advanced optical inspection platforms. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in optical physics or optical engineering, and combines strong analytical skills with hands‑on modeling, simulation, and data analysis experience. You will work closely with optical, mechanical, electrical, algorithm, and manufacturing teams to ensure system requirements are translated into robust, high‑performance designs that meet customer and product roadmap needs.

Requirements

Strong background in engineering or the physical science and demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills
Solid foundation in optical physics, including imaging systems, diffraction, illumination, and wave optics.
Demonstrated experience in system performance analysis and error budgeting for complex engineering systems.
Hands‑on experience with optical system modeling and simulation tools.
Proficiency in data acquisition, numerical analysis, and visualization, using tools such as MATLAB, Python, or equivalent.
Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts and trade‑offs to cross‑functional teams.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-functional team environment
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 6 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 8 years

Nice To Haves

Experimental experience with optical bench design, building, alignment and measurement is preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct feasibility investigation of novel system/subsystem concepts
Define system requirements, specifications, and verification plans across optical, mechanical, electrical, and control subsystems.
Develop and maintain detailed error budgets, linking subsystem performance to overall system requirements.
Perform simulation and data analysis to model and validate system performance
Work closely with engineering teams on prototype design, implementation and performance validation on tool or experimental bench
Perform data collection on the tool/bench and data analysis to demonstrate the value of the concept
Drive root‑cause analysis and corrective actions for system/subsystem performance issues
Collaborate cross‑functionally with engineering, applications, manufacturing, and service organizations throughout the product lifecycle.
Present the results and findings to the team and management