Applied Materials, Inc

New College Grad System Engineer, Material Characterization (PhD - Santa Clara, CA)

Applied Materials, Inc • $138K — $190K *
Technical Services
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Material Sciences, or related field.
  • Strong academic background in physics, optics, or engineering fundamentals.
  • Hands-on lab experience through coursework, internships, personal projects, or research.
  • Analytical and methodical problem-solving approach.
  • Proficient in Python, MATLAB, or equivalent for data collection and analysis.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated and quick learner in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

  • Survey and evaluate optical and sensor-based material-characterization methods.
  • Develop analytical and numerical models for sensitivity and discrimination capability.
  • Build and align benchtop optical setups and generate experimental results.
  • Analyze data using Python and MATLAB to align experimental results with theoretical predictions.
  • Create decision matrices to assess candidate approaches on feasibility and performance.
  • Summarize and present scientific recommendations to peers and management.
  • Generate system requirements and collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop products.
  • Act as technical project manager to meet performance, schedule, and cost targets.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package includes health, wellness, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education support.
  • Supportive culture encouraged for learning and experimentation.
  • Relocation assistance offered for candidates moving to Santa Clara.
Full Job Description
What We Offer

Salary:
$138,000.00 - $190,000.00

Location:
Santa Clara,CA

As a Systems Engineer, you'll design, integrate, and optimize complex systems that drive the semiconductor industry forward. Your expertise in systems thinking and problem-solving is essential as you collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop advanced solutions to intricate processes and writing system specifications. You'll be responsible for analyzing requirements, defining system architectures, conducting thorough testing, and ensuring seamless integration of subsystems. Additionally, you'll identify and mitigate risks, confirming that our systems meet the highest quality standards and exceed customer expectations.

SUMMARY

Launch your professional engineering career at the forefront of semiconductor inspection technology. As a System Engineer, Material characterization, you will be responsible for developing original technical concepts for material discrimination in emerging product architectures and converting them into world best inspection and metrology products. You'll join a supportive culture that encourages learning, experimentation, and professional growth.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Survey and evaluate a wide range of optical and sensor-based material-characterization methods, such as fluorescence, hyperspectral, and polarization imaging, FTIR, SIMS/DART/DESI, LIBS.
• Develop analytical and numerical models (e.g., physics theory, FDTD/RCWA, ray-trace or wave-optics simulations) to predict sensitivity, and discrimination capability.
• Build and align benchtop optical setups, generate structured and clear experimental results.
• Analyze data using Python and Matlab-based tools to compare experimental results with theoretical predictions. Leverage existing and emerging AI capabilities to maximize efficiency.
• Create structured decision matrices ranking candidate approaches based on feasibility, performance, integration complexity, throughput constraints, hardware footprint, and risks.
• Summarize and present to peers and management scientific & engineering recommendations identifying the most promising development pathways.
• Generate detailed system requirements, proactively work with OE, ME, EE, SW & Algo cross-functional engineering teams to convert concept and bench results into functional prototypes and market leading products following best engineering practices.
• Ability to act as a technical project manager, meeting performance, schedule, and cost targets.
• Develop test plans and execute test procedures, calibration routines, and diagnostic protocols; document results with precision.
• Support system-level troubleshooting and root cause analysis, design verification and validation activities across hardware, software, and algorithms.
• Deliver necessary engineering documentation following defined Product Life Cycle process.
• Develop and maintain IP portfolio and adhere to strict information security culture.

EDUCATION
• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Material Sciences or related field with experience in material characterization.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Strong academic background in physics, optics, or engineering fundamentals.
• Strong theoretical understanding of material sciences and methods to characterize and discriminate different materials.
• Hands-on lab experience through coursework, internship, personal projects, or research.
• Analytical and methodical problem-solving approach.
• Proficient in Python, MATLAB, or equivalent for data collection and analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated; able to learn quickly in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary team environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Internship or co-op experience in semiconductor equipment, instrumentation, or photonics.
• Familiarity with optical systems, imaging, or laser-based instruments.
• Experience with test automation or data acquisition systems.
• Prior exposure to manufacturing, cleanroom, or lab operations.
• Coursework or project experience in systems engineering.

Additional Information

Time Type:
Full time

Employee Type:
New College Grad

Travel:
Not Specified

Relocation Eligible:
Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

About Applied Materials, Inc

Applied Materials specialize in materials engineering solutions. They optimize equipment and fab operations through consulting, spare parts, services, and automation software. They also provide supply chain services from transactional spares through programs, rebuilds, and forecasted parts management. Their products and technologies include semiconductors, displays, roll web coating, solar, and automation software.

**Applied Materials, Inc. Careers**

Join the innovative world of Applied Materials, Inc., a leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. Our global team is driving innovation and growth in the industries we serve. This is where your expertise can make a true impact.

Work You’ll Do

At Applied Materials, Inc., you will be part of a company that prides itself on fostering a culture of innovation, diversity, and professional growth. As a member of our team, you will lead groundbreaking projects at the intersection of technology, leadership, and engineering excellence. We offer a variety of job opportunities that allow you to explore your potential and push the boundaries of what's possible.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation is at the heart of everything we do. You will work alongside the brightest minds in the industry, utilizing your skills to contribute to projects that are not only exciting but also crucial for technological advancements. Our leadership is committed to providing you with the guidance and support needed to achieve your career goals.

Career Growth and Opportunities

Whether you are looking for an internship, a full-time position, or leadership roles, Applied Materials, Inc. provides an array of career paths to help you achieve your professional aspirations. Our commitment to career growth is evident through extensive training programs and opportunities for advancement.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Applied Materials, Inc., we believe that diversity fuels innovation. We are dedicated to building a diverse team that reflects the global communities we serve. Our diversity training programs are designed to enhance collaboration and foster an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive.

Benefits and Culture

Our employees enjoy a range of benefits that support both their professional and personal lives. From health and wellness programs to competitive retirement plans, we ensure that our team is taken care of. The culture at Applied Materials, Inc. is built on collaboration, respect, and a commitment to excellence.

Join Our Team

Explore the job opportunities at Applied Materials, Inc. and find the position that matches your skills and passions. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are curious, creative, and ready to drive innovation in a dynamic industry.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights by joining our network. Engage with us on professional networking platforms and stay ahead in your career journey.

Apply Now

Ready to take the next step in your career? Submit your resume, prepare for your interview, and join a team that’s dedicated to materializing the technologies of tomorrow. Discover the impact you can make at Applied Materials, Inc. and help us shape the future.

SEARCH APPLIED MATERIALS JOBS

--- This page for Applied Materials, Inc. Careers incorporates all the requested elements, maintaining the "Company Content Style" with a focus on innovation, career growth, and the dynamic team environment.
Learn more about Applied Materials, Inc
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$80.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.8 billion
Founded
1967
5 Year Trend
+11.9%
Revenue
$18.2 billion
NASDAQ

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