Research Scientist (Optical Imaging Systems)

TL;DR

Research Scientist (Optical Imaging Systems): Designing and validating system-level performance for next-generation advanced optical inspection platforms with an accent on optical physics and system-level modeling. Focus on developing error budgets, performing simulations, and conducting feasibility investigations for novel optical subsystems.

Location: Must be based in Milpitas, CA

Salary: $136,300 - $231,700

Company

Global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, specializing in high-precision metrology and inspection products.

What you will do

• Conduct feasibility investigations of novel system and subsystem concepts.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and verification plans across optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems.
• Develop and maintain detailed error budgets to link subsystem performance to overall system requirements.
• Perform simulation and data analysis to model and validate system performance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on prototype design, implementation, and performance validation.
• Drive root-cause analysis and corrective actions for system performance issues.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree (0 years exp), Master's degree (3+ years exp), or Bachelor's degree (5+ years exp) in engineering or physical science.
• 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 and numerical analysis using MATLAB, Python, or equivalent.
• Location: Must be based in Milpitas, CA.

Nice to have

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

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Financial perks: 401(K) with company matching and Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Support for continuous growth via tuition reimbursement and student debt assistance.
• Strong innovation culture with 15% of sales reinvested back into R&D.
• Paid time off, company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.