Senior Precision Stage Architect V - (E5)
$163,000–$224,000 year
On-siteSanta Clara, California, United States
Job Summary
Own the end-to-end architecture of high-precision motion stages, spanning mechanical structure, actuation, sensing, and motion control. Define control system architecture including servo loop topology, feedforward strategy, and sensor/actuator selection to meet nanometer-class positioning targets. Develop dynamic models of stage mechanics and integrate them with real-time control hardware for active vibration isolation and disturbance rejection. Build and qualify prototypes of new stage designs, troubleshoot difficult engineering problems such as servo instability and dynamic errors, and coordinate tests per reliability specifications.
Required Qualifications
- BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Controls
- 10–15+ years of experience
- MS preferred
- Demonstrated knowledge of system engineering, control theory, servo/feedback control design, and multi-axis motion control
- Applied to high-precision motion stages and stage subsystems (chuck, substrate/wafer handling, interferometry, metrology, etc.)
- Hands-on experience with mechatronic co-design — system identification, dynamic modeling, control-loop tuning, feedforward design, and active vibration isolation/damping for nanometer-class positioning
- Familiarity with motion control hardware and real-time control implementation: motion controllers, FPGA/DSP-based real-time systems, drives, amplifiers, and position feedback/metrology sensors (interferometers, encoders, capacitive sensors)
- Mechanical engineering experience in component selection, building, testing, troubleshooting, and releasing semiconductor or other similar-scale capital equipment
- Knowledge of SEMI S2/S8/S14, NFPA 79, F47, CE, and EMI/EMC safety standards
- In-depth knowledge of 3D CAD design tools (e.g., Inventor) and 2D CAD drawing tools, including but not limited to Siemens NX Unigraphics, Inventor, AutoCAD, etc.
- Working knowledge of materials and components used in semiconductor wafer manufacturing equipment, materials characterization methods, and failure analysis of materials/systems
- Experience supporting manufacturing and service organizations through training, documentation (procedures, OMS, BKMs, etc.), and troubleshooting
- Proficiency in modeling, simulation, and data analysis tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, Excel, or equivalent
- Strong time management skills with an emphasis on managing multiple projects simultaneously
- Strong communication and organizational skills and a sense of collaboration
- Energy and desire to thrive in a start-up-like environment
- Valid driver's license
Desired Qualifications
- MS preferred
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