Manufacturing Engineer (Precision Mechanical)

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 a skilled Manufacturing Engineer to support the production, introduction, and continuous improvement of sophisticated semiconductor capital equipment. This role partners closely with engineering, operations, suppliers, and field teams to resolve complex technical challenges, improve manufacturability, and drive operational excellence across the product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead root cause investigations and corrective actions for manufacturing, supplier, and field-related issues using structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Drive cross-functional efforts with Mechanical, Optical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Systems, and Test Engineering teams to improve product performance, reliability, quality, and manufacturability.
• Perform failure analysis and diagnostic troubleshooting on complex electromechanical, optical, and motion control systems.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes, work instructions, BOM structures, and production methods to support safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Analyze manufacturing and quality data to identify trends, improve process capability, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities, design transfers, engineering changes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with external suppliers to resolve technical issues, improve component quality, and ensure manufacturing readiness.
• Communicate technical findings, recommendations, and project updates to cross-functional teams, leadership, and customers.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience supporting manufacturing, production engineering, NPI, or operations within a high-tech industry.
• Experience with optical, mechatronic, or other precision industrial equipment.
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills with the ability to diagnose complex technical problems.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex manufacturing, quality, and reliability data.
• Proven experience working in cross-functional, fast-paced environments and managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively at both technical and management levels.
• Results-driven mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and a desire to improve products, processes, and systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with precision motion control systems, robotics, microscopes, automation equipment, medical devices, stages, or similar high-precision instrumentation.
• Experience in semiconductor capital equipment or other advanced manufacturing industries.
• Experience resolving technical issues with external suppliers and driving supplier quality improvements.

Travel: Up to 25% domestic and international travel as business needs require.

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: $106,700.00 - $181,400.00 Annually

Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-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.