Overview:
The Simulation Engineer 3 will be responsible for developing and applying MATLAB-based models and simulations to support the design, development, and performance optimization of semiconductor etch tool components and subsystems. This is a key member of the engineering team, partnering closely with hardware, process, controls, and manufacturing to translate requirements into validated predictive models. The role focuses on physics-based and data-informed simulation (e.g., thermal, flow, and system-level behavior) to guide design decisions, de-risk prototypes, and improve tool performance and reliability.
Responsibilities:
- Develop MATLAB/Simulink models to simulate etch tool components and subsystem behavior across operating conditions
- Build physics-based and reduced-order models (ROMs) for component-level phenomena (e.g., thermal behavior, flow distribution, and system behavior)
- Translate component requirements and tool performance targets into simulation assumptions, boundary conditions, and measurable acceptance criteria
- Perform analytical studies and numerical simulations in MATLAB (e.g. parameter estimation, optimization, uncertainty/sensitivity analysis)
- Partner with design and process teams to define simulation plans that inform component architecture, tolerances, and control strategies
- Validate models using test data (DOE, characterization, tool logs) and ensure simulations are traceable, repeatable, and aligned with engineering best practices
- Communicate simulation results via clear plots, reports, and presentations; explain limitations, assumptions, and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Provide simulation expertise while participating in design reviews and technical risk assessments for etch tool component changes
- Support cross-functional execution by providing model-based inputs to schedules, build priorities, and supplier/component trade studies
- Collaborate with lab and manufacturing teams to instrument components, collect data, and close the loop between simulation and hardware behavior
- Develop simulation-based test plans and design-of-experiments (DOE) to quantify performance drivers and support prototype bring-up and troubleshooting
- Create and maintain simulation documentation (assumptions, verification/validation, versioning) and release artifacts per configuration control processes
- Support program milestones with model maturity planning (verification/validation gates) and clear deliverables that integrate with the product life cycle
- Understand and adhere to applicable semiconductor equipment standards and internal modeling/verification practices
Qualifications:
BS Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 8 years of experience in simulation/modeling for complex electromechanical systems (semiconductor equipment experience preferred), or an MS degree with 6 years of experience. Demonstrated expertise building and validating MATLAB-based models is required. MS degree preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment as part of a multi-disciplinary team; able to take initiative, own full modeling efforts, and/or lead a small project team
- Advanced proficiency with MATLAB; experience with Simulink is strongly preferred
- Strong background in numerical methods, modeling of dynamic systems, and simulation verification/validation (V&V)
- Experience handling experimental/tool data for model calibration (e.g., scripting, data cleaning, parameter fitting, statistical analysis)
- Working knowledge of mechanical systems and/or controls sufficient to model actuators, sensors, and subsystem interactions in etch tools
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including requirements/specification development; ability to make technical presentations and communicate modeling assumptions and results
- Knowledge of semiconductor etch equipment and component physics (e.g., gas delivery, thermal management, vacuum systems, RF/plasma interfaces) is a plus
- Experience planning and executing modeling projects (scope, milestones, risks) is a plus
- Hands-on mindset with ability to correlate models to hardware through testing, prototyping support, and structured troubleshooting
- Proficient with common documentation and collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Office); experience with version control for code/models is a plus
- Ability to travel up to 10% of the time to customer sites and/or supplier facilities on an as-needed basis
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