Lead Embedded Software Engineer (Machine Control/Linux/C/C++)

Description

/Preferred Qualifications

Your Role: Lead, Innovate, Grow

• We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Embedded Software Engineer to join our dynamic team within the RAPID division. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing, developing, and sustaining the complex embedded software that powers our industry-leading reticle inspection systems. You will provide technical leadership, mentor team members, and contribute significantly to the architecture and implementation of real-time control systems, sensor image capture pipelines, and hardware interfaces.
• We are looking for exceptional technical leaders who possess the aptitude and ambition to grow into an engineering & project management role within KLA over the next few years. You will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, influence team direction, and contribute to project planning and execution, preparing you to take on project management responsibilities.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead the Charge: Spearhead the design, development, and deployment of complex software/firmware for machine control in semiconductor inspection systems. Project involves demanding real-time embedded applications developed using C/C++ for electro-mechanical control system running on a real-time operating system (RTOS) such as real-time Linux, VxWorks for a high-reliability application.
• Architect the Future: Design and implement robust, scalable software for system control, high-speed data acquisition, image processing, and intricate hardware interaction. Understand system level requirements and translate them into software design and implementation.
• Collaborate Across Boundaries: Work shoulder-to-shoulder with brilliant minds in multidisciplinary areas like mechanical, systems engineering, electrical, optics, opto-mech, algorithms, and applications to build truly integrated solutions.
• Mentor and Inspire: Guide junior engineers, share your expertise, and cultivate a team environment focused on technical excellence and growth.
• Drive Best Practices: Champion modern software development methodologies (Agile, CI/CD, automated testing) to ensure quality and efficiency. Define and execute test plans to measure the performance of key subsystems. Document, analyze and present the testing results.
• Solve Tough Problems: Dive deep to troubleshoot complex system-level issues and optimize performance-critical software.
• Shape the Strategy: Contribute to project planning, risk management, and technical roadmap discussions. Participate in all stages of development, including design, implementation, deployment, testing and troubleshooting.

Required Skills & Qualification:

• MS in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science/Control Systems or similar fields.
• 8+ years of working experience in an industrial environment in the field of embedded software development.
• Strong knowledge of C/C++ programming, Object-Oriented Design & Programming (OOD & OOP).
• Strong knowledge of Linux/RTOS OS environment, multi- threading, synchronization and SW architecture design.
• Knowledge of communication protocols like Serial-RS232, Ethernet/EtherCAT/ TCP-IP socket/network communication and related programming.
• The candidate should have strong analytical capabilities, strong written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills to communicate and present their software design for reviews. Must demonstrate perseverance and ability to work collaboratively within a team setting.
• Excellent communication skills. Self-motivated to excel in responsible tasks. Possess high curiosity, be a fast learner, and have the strive to turn prototype ideas into quality production code used in mission critical applications.
• Strong software debugging and troubleshooting skills are required.

Preferred (nice to have) Skills:

• Hands on experience and laboratory exposure to electrical, mechanical and optical measurement instruments
• Experience in semiconductor fab operations/manufacturing technology.
• Linux administration knowledge and UML knowledge.
• Knowledge of Python or other scripting language
• Knowledge of motion control system with Stepper/Servo/Piezo motors, servo control loop (e.g., PID), classical or modern control theory.
• Systems thinking based on first principle and physics.
• Project planning and management skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 6 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 8 years

Base Pay Range: $154,900.00 - $263,300.00 AnnuallyPrimary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLA’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.

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