Staff Mechanical Engineer

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.

Job Summary & Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly skilled Opto-Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and support advanced optical-mechanical systems used in next-generation semiconductor metrology equipment. This role requires deep expertise in precision mechanics, optical alignment, and environmental stability for high-accuracy measurement systems operating at sub-micron or nanometer scales.

The ideal candidate will collaborate cross-functionally with optical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver robust, high-performance systems supporting semiconductor inspection and metrology applications.

Key Responsibilities

Opto-Mechanical Design & Development

• Design precision opto-mechanical assemblies including lens mounts, mirror systems, stages, and structural components.

• Develop mechanical architectures that ensure optical alignment stability under thermal, vibration, and environmental variations.

• Perform tolerance analysis for optical systems, including sensitivity studies and error budgets.

System Integration

• Collaborate with optical engineers to integrate lasers, detectors, imaging systems, and illumination paths.

• Support alignment strategies and develop fixturing and tooling for assembly and calibration.

• Ensure mechanical designs meet optical performance requirements such as wavefront error, distortion, and stability.

Analysis & Simulation

• Conduct FEA (thermal, structural, modal) to evaluate deformation, drift, and vibration effects on optical performance.

• Perform thermal management design to minimize drift and ensure repeatability in metrology measurements.

• Analyze and mitigate sources of noise, including mechanical vibration and thermal expansion.

Prototyping & Testing

• Build and test prototypes; troubleshoot alignment and performance issues.

• Develop test procedures and validation methods for optical-mechanical subsystems.

• Work closely with manufacturing to transition designs from prototype to production.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with manufacturing, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure DFM/DFA compliance.

• Support supplier selection and evaluate custom optical and precision mechanical components.

• Participate in system-level design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.

• 7+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design, preferably in semiconductor, photonics, or precision instrumentation.

• Strong understanding of optical systems, including imaging, laser systems, interferometry, or illumination design.

• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, NX).

• Experience with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) for thermal and structural analysis.

• Knowledge of precision manufacturing methods (CNC machining, EDM, additive, etc.).

• Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance stack-ups.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with semiconductor metrology or inspection equipment (e.g., scatterometry, CD-SEM, overlay metrology).

• Understanding of vibration isolation, air-bearing stages, and ultra-stable structures.

• Experience integrating optical components such as lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, and fiber systems.

• Knowledge of cleanroom standards and contamination control.

• Experience with alignment tools such as interferometers, autocollimators, and optical benches.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.

• Attention to detail with a focus on precision and accuracy.

• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

• Effective communication and documentation skills.

• Hands-on mindset with a balance of theoretical and practical expertise.

Why Join Onto Innovation?

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.

Compensation & Growth

• Base Salary Range:

$115,200.00 - $172,800.00, 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.

Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:

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.

Important Note on Export Compliance

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).