Build and evaluate proof-of-concept systems and engineering prototypes.
Develop experimental plans, execute measurements, analyze data, and draw conclusions from complex physical phenomena.
Convert laboratory concepts into robust, manufacturable systems suitable for semiconductor production environments.
Define system requirements and performance budgets.
Work closely with mechanical, electrical, software, controls, and process engineers to implement complete solutions.
Support vendor selection and development of custom optical components and assemblies.
Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and system-level issues during development and deployment.
Generate technical documentation, design reviews, specifications, test procedures, and engineering reports.
Evaluate intellectual property, technical risks, and competitive technologies related to optical systems.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship in optical engineering across the organization.
Required Qualifications
M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
8+ years of experience developing complex optical systems.
Strong understanding of: Geometrical optics; Physical optics; Imaging systems; Lasers and photonics; and Optical metrology
Experience moving systems from concept through prototype and validation.
Demonstrated ability to perform both theoretical analysis and hands-on experimental work.
Experience developing optical test methods and calibration techniques.
Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
Programming experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar scientific computing tools.
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal technical guidance.
Preferred Qualifications
Semiconductor equipment or semiconductor metrology experience.
Experience using Zemax, Code V, FRED, COMSOL, or similar modeling tools.
Experience designing opto-mechanical assemblies for industrial environments.
Knowledge of statistical analysis and measurement-system validation.
Experience developing production-worthy systems from early-stage research concepts.
Success Profile
The ideal candidate is
A self-starter who can identify opportunities and drive technical solutions with limited direction.
Comfortable working in ambiguous, early-stage development environments.
Equally capable of deriving a theoretical model, aligning optics on a laboratory bench, and explaining results to senior leadership.
Passionate about turning physics into products.
Driven to create practical solutions that can operate reliably in semiconductor
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
It is the policy of Axcelis to provide equal opportunity in all areas of employment for all persons free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, color, national origin, disability status, medical condition (including pregnancy), veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Axcelis will provide reasonable accommodation necessary to enable a disabled candidate or employee to perform the essential functions of the position, unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the Company.
U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE
$132,073.00 - $198,109.00
This base salary range reflects the typical compensation for this role across U.S. locations.
Our salary ranges are determined by role and level; individual pay is determined based on
multiple factors, including job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, work
location, and internal equity. The range provides the opportunity for growth and progression as
you develop within the role.
Base pay is one part of our U.S. total compensation package which includes eligibility in the
Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits package (for regular
employees working 20+ hours a week).
