PDF Solutions is seeking an Electron Optics Engineer to drive the R&D, manufacturing and delivery of state-of-the-art eProbe electron beam inspection systems used in semiconductor wafer manufacturing facilities for yield ramp and manufacturing control. The electron optics engineer will be responsible for leading the design and simulation of electron beam inspection systems from concept to high volume manufacturing. A successful candidate will be a highly motivated and self-driven team player with strong analytical skills and possess the drive to deliver high quality results in a dynamic, multi-disciplined and highly productive environment.

• Simulate electron optics columns and validate models using experimental measurements
• Develop new modes of column operation and drive column architecture design improvements
• Develop test methodologies, collect experimental data and analyze data sets
• Convert findings into clear recommendations for product, process, or algorithm changes
• Create system requirements, error budgets and tolerance analysis stack-ups
• Define specifications and acceptance tests for critical column components
• Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving electron optics, imaging systems, vacuum systems, and electronics
• Contribute to continuous improvement of characterization methods, analysis workflows, and tool capabilities
• Collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and share findings with internal collaborators
• Drive innovation and technology development for next-generation tools

Must-Have Skills & Experience

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, and over 5 years of relevant work experience
• Expertise in electron optics and a proven track record in designing and operating electron beam columns
• Experience in simulation and experimental characterization of electron sources
• Proficiency with electron optics simulation software (eg. MEBS, SIMION)
• Experience running finite element software packages (e.g. COMSOL, OPERA)
• Proficiency with a scripting language (e.g. Python, Matlab)
• Experience with high vacuum systems
• Experience with high voltage power supplies and electron beam electronics
• Background in surface science and electron-surface interactions
• Experience working with semiconductor manufacturing tools

Nice to Have

• Prior experience with voltage contrast imaging
• Semiconductor process or cleanroom exposure
• Background in signal or image processing