Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers' critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.
Job Summary & ResponsibilitiesAbout Onto InnovationOnto Innovation is a semiconductor process control capital equipment company focused on enabling our customers to achieve higher yield, improved quality, and smarter manufacturing. Our portfolio spans advanced metrology, inspection, lithography, and process control software-helping the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers solve their most complex problems.
About the Foundational Engineering GroupOur Foundational Engineering Group (FEG) develops common platforms, systems, software frameworks, and engineering tools used across all Onto Innovation products. FEO serves as an enabling technology organization, building the core modules and architecture that new products leverage for scale, reliability, and accelerated time-to-market.
To support our next generation of product platforms, FEO is expanding our
Pilot / New Product Introduction (NPI) team with a highly skilled
Senior Systems Engineer specializing in module and system characterization.
The
Senior Systems Engineer, Module & System Characterization will lead characterization, validation, and functional performance assessment of foundational modules and integrated subsystems used across Onto Innovation's capital equipment portfolio. This role is critical in bridging early engineering concepts with production-ready solutions. You will work hands-on with mechanical, optical, electrical, and software modules to quantify performance, develop characterization methodologies, and ensure robust integration into next-generation systems.
This role requires strong systems thinking, deep analytical capability, and comfort working in an advanced R&D environment where clarity evolves as designs mature.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree or higher in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.
- 6+ years of experience in systems engineering roles supporting semiconductor capital equipment or complex electromechanical platforms.
- Demonstrated experience leading system, module, or subsystem characterization, validation, and performance assessment across multiple engineering domains.
- Strong systems-level thinking, with the ability to decompose requirements, define interfaces, and translate early concepts into verifiable, production-ready designs.
- Hands-on experience working with precision mechanical, optical, electrical, and software-enabled modules within complex integrated systems.
- Proven expertise developing test strategies, characterization methods, and validation plans to quantify system performance and identify design margins.
- Ability to diagnose complex technical issues using data-driven analysis, root-cause methodologies, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
- Experience working in advanced R&D environments, where requirements evolve and design maturity increases over time.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical findings and trade-offs to cross-functional stakeholders.
- Must be able to travel internationally to customer sites at least 20% of the time, with additional travel as business needs require.
Why Join Onto Innovation?
At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter-and so should your well-being. That's why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we've got you covered. You'll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools-all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Compensation & Growth Base Salary Range:
$115,200.00 - $172,800.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.
- Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.
Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:
Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.
Important Note on Export Compliance
For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
