RF & Plasma Technologist

Job Title

RF & Plasma Technologist

Role Summary

Join the SPTS Advanced Development group to design and develop RF sub-assemblies and plasma hardware for semiconductor etch and deposition systems. The role is a hands-on technical position that works with process, electrical, mechanical, software and manufacturing teams to deliver robust subsystem solutions and advance platform technology.

Experience Level

Mid-level / Mid-career. The role expects an experienced engineer with substantial industrial experience; no specific years of experience were listed.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include design, development, testing, and technical leadership across plasma hardware and RF subsystems:

• Develop plasma hardware for etch and deposition sources, electrodes, electrostatic chucks, gas distribution and chamber internals.
• Design, model, build and test RF matching networks, RF feed structures, transmission systems and grounding assemblies at prototype level.
• Investigate impedance matching, power-coupling efficiency, losses, harmonics and parasitic current paths; characterise performance with network analysers, RF probes and oscilloscopes.
• Plan and conduct laboratory experiments, analyse data, document conclusions and support structured root-cause investigations.
• Support prototype builds, system integration, qualification and release into product development; generate specifications, drawings, test methods and development reports.
• Coordinate design reviews and risk-reduction activities; support failure analysis and troubleshooting.
• Engage with customers, suppliers, universities and internal stakeholders to communicate technical findings and contribute to technology roadmaps.
• Provide technical leadership: define verification plans, mentor engineers, present at technical reviews, and support invention disclosures and patents.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience:

• Extensive industrial experience in plasma processing, RF engineering, vacuum systems and semiconductor equipment.
• Proven track record delivering complex technology from concept through prototype validation to product release.
• Hands-on experience designing, building and testing RF sub-assemblies and matching networks; familiar with RF diagnostic tools.
• Practical understanding of vacuum, thermal, materials and contamination-control principles for subsystem design.
• Strong communication skills and the credibility to act as a cross-functional technical authority.
• Willingness to travel internationally and to work occasional shifts.

Nice-to-have:

• Formal or informal team-lead experience and familiarity with Stage-Gate product development processes.
• Knowledge of EMC, electrical safety and RF compliance.
• Familiarity with electromagnetic and plasma modelling tools (for example COMSOL Multiphysics, Ansys HFSS, HPEM).

Education Requirements

PhD or MSc in Physics, Plasma Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronics or a related discipline.

About the Company

Company: KLA

Headquarters: Chennai, India

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing industry. The company enables the production of electronic devices by inventing systems and solutions for manufacturing integrated circuits, wafers, and displays. With over 40 years of experience, KLA invests heavily in innovation and R&D to support advanced chip design and manufacturing process optimization, collaborating with top technology providers to deliver future electronic devices.