Research Chemist

Company Overview

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.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

KLA is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Research Chemist to join our research and development team focused on advancing analytical technologies for the semiconductor industry. In this role, you will lead the development of next-generation chemical analyzers used to monitor and control critical process fluids in semiconductor manufacturing. Working at the intersection of chemistry, electrochemistry, instrumentation, and product development, you will drive scientific innovation from concept through commercialization, helping deliver differentiated solutions that enable our customers' most advanced manufacturing processes. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, publish technical work, contribute to intellectual property development, and make a significant impact on the future of semiconductor process analytics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative chemical analyzers for process fluids used in semiconductor manufacturing, driving new product concepts from early research through commercialization.
• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods to support accurate chemical measurement, process monitoring, and advanced process control applications.
• Drive technical innovation to enhance product performance, expand capabilities, and create differentiated solutions for customers.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including engineering, product management, and manufacturing to design, develop, and launch analyzer systems.
• Plan, design, and execute laboratory experiments; analyze complex data sets and communicate findings through technical reports and presentations.
• Support product development activities through testing, troubleshooting, technical documentation, and ongoing product support.
• Develop and validate analytical methodologies, ensuring compliance with scientific best practices and maintaining accurate, up-to-date documentation.
• Author scientific publications, patents, technical papers, and conference presentations to showcase technology advancements and thought leadership.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and scientific developments relevant to analytical instrumentation and semiconductor process chemistry.
• Travel up to 20% domestically and internationally to support customers, collaborate with global teams, and attend technical conferences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong foundation in analytical chemistry, with experience developing and validating laboratory-based analytical methods.
• Hands-on experience with electrochemical techniques, including voltammetry methods such as cyclic voltammetry, stripping voltammetry, and related electroanalytical approaches.
• Experience developing analytical instruments, sensors, or measurement systems for industrial, semiconductor, chemical, or related applications is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation, experimental design, and statistical data analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex analytical data and translate findings into actionable technical recommendations.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and in cross-functional environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical report writing, scientific publications, and presentations to technical audiences.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years

Base Pay Range: $106,000.00 - $180,200.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-NJ-Totowa-KLA

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. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

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.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees.  KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings.  KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers.  If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.