Manufacturing Design Engineer (Failure Analysis)

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

• Lead and complete sophisticated failure analysis investigations for manufacturing and field critical issues, including contamination, coating or substrate damage, materials degradation, and supply-related materials issues.
• Apply sophisticated materials characterization and analytical techniques, including SEM/FIB, TEM, EDS, SIMS, XPS, Auger, FTIR, Raman, UV‑Vis spectroscopy, optical microscopy, white‑light interferometry, and chromatography (GC/LC), to resolve failure mechanisms and root causes.
• Correlate analytical data with process history, manufacturing conditions, and field usage to develop comprehensive root‑cause models and actionable conclusions.
• Collaborating with internal customers from various divisions on material selection, develop feasibility review, supplier qualification and production ramp.
• Build, develop, and validate new test methods, analytical workflows, and materials characterization capabilities to improve diagnostic efficiency and expand CMAG’s technical reach.
• Clearly document and communicate findings through technical reports, presentations, and multi-functional reviews, influencing engineering and business decisions.

• Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering
• Demonstrated hands‑on expertise in failure analysis and materials characterization, including SEM/FIB, TEM, SIMS, XPS, FTIR, Raman, UV‑Vis, and optical microscopy.
• Strong understanding of instrument fundamentals, data interpretation.
• Experience in chemistry, materials science, and surface science, including solid‑state chemistry, thin films, coatings, optical materials, and photon–matter interactions.
• Exposure to contamination control, coating damage, metallurgy, optical and mechanical systems, semiconductor manufacturing processes, and industry quality standards is helpful.
• Applying root‑cause methodologies (e.g., 8D, structured problem solving) in manufacturing or high‑reliability environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work effectively in a multi‑disciplinary, multi‑cultural, global organization.
• Willingness to travel for training, supplier engagement, project execution, and global support.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years

Base Pay Range: $106,700.00 - $181,400.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees.  KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings.  KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers.  If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.