Architect​/Distinguished

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading‑edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer‑scale transistors to micron‑level die‑interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues.

Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.

As a Systems Architect, you will serve as a principal technical authority for the OCD product line including metrology algorithms, driving system‑level innovation and ensuring engineering excellence from concept through product release. You will lead the development of system specifications, perform advanced analysis, and influence architecture decisions across disciplines. This role is ideal for a highly experienced engineer who thrives on solving complex technical challenges and mentoring others, without direct management responsibilities.

• Lead system‑level development for OCD product line, translating marketing requirements into robust, scalable system specifications.
• Develop and maintain system error budgets; perform sensitivity and tolerance analyses to guide design decisions.
• Provide deep technical expertise across optics, lasers, plasma sources, detectors, and image sensors.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally for all phases of the product lifecycle with engineering teams, product marketing, PLC, and leadership to ensure alignment and technical integrity.
• Actively contribute to solving technology and performance limiters through innovative approaches and rigorous analysis.
• Author and review system and subsystem requirements, including calibration and integration features.
• Influence subsystem architecture through feasibility studies and trade‑off analyses.
• Serve as a Subject Design Expert in assigned domains, signing off on designs and contributing to design reviews.
• Promote design‑for‑X principles (performance, manufacturability, reliability, serviceability, etc.) across engineering efforts.
• Shape product architecture roadmaps and drive innovation to maintain competitive advantage.

• PhD in Physical Sciences or Engineering.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in semiconductor metrology or related equipment.
• Demonstrated expertise in systems engineering and hardware technologies.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in system modeling and error budget analysis.
• Proven ability to influence technical direction and architecture decisions across teams.
• Recognized for technical contributions through patents, publications, or industry engagement.
• Ability to travel up to 20% internationally and domestically.

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well‑being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting‑edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Base Salary Range: $ - $, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.

• Additional Rewards:
  Annual bonus opportunities and potential long‑term incentives tied to both company and individual success.

Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.

For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).