Automotive R&D Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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.

The Semiconductor Process Control (Semi PC) business unit designs, builds, sells and supports a comprehensive product portfolio that ensures high‑quality production of the chips that power the technologies of today and the future, including AI, data centers, automotive and electronic devices. Semi PC’s differentiated inspection, metrology and data analytic systems discover, characterize and monitor the defects and variations that can affect manufacturing processes across the semiconductor ecosystem, including high‑performance logic chips, advanced memory chips, specialty semiconductors, wafers, reticles, advanced packaging, process equipment and materials. Semi PC solves our customers’ most critical challenges through a combination of innovative technologies, close collaborations, and a dynamic, global team.

• Understand customers’ characterization requirements and provide solutions using KLA’s various optical and interferometry‑based techniques.
• Conduct product and measurement demonstrations.
• Define, prepare and present quotes to customers and close sales opportunities efficiently.
• Support sales and product management as the key expert and provide technical phone support for installed systems.
• Train customers on key technologies and product use.
• Assist with business development, qualifying new applications, markets, and customers.
• Author white papers, product application notes, and technical papers for conferences.
• Willing to travel up to 25%.

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Physics or Engineering with a background in optics.
• Ability to work independently under minimal supervision.
• Ability to deliver effective technical presentations and product demonstrations to customers.
• Strong understanding of optical properties of materials and other forms of elastic/inelastic light‑matter interaction.
• Experience in a customer‑facing role for a minimum of 2 years related to thin‑film deposition, metrology, or surface characterization.
• Minimum qualifications: Master’s level degree and 0 years related work experience; Bachelor’s level degree and related work experience of 2 years.

Base Pay Range: $72,600.00 – $123,400.00 Annually. Primary Location: USA‑MI‑Ann Arbor.

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.

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.