Metrology TEM Engineer

Kokusai Electric is a global leader in the design, manufacture, installation, and support of vertical diffusion furnaces used in semiconductor fabrication facilities worldwide. We are seeking a highly motivated Metrology TEM Engineer to join our new United States Development Center (USDC) in Hillsboro, Oregon. This is a unique opportunity to establish and lead advanced metrology capabilities while supporting semiconductor process development for customers and internal engineering teams.

The Metrology TEM Engineer will be responsible for the setup, operation, optimization, and ownership of TEM and FIB/SEM tools, while supporting a variety of advanced metrology systems. This role requires strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with customers, process engineers, integration engineers, and equipment suppliers.

• Operate and optimize TEM systems for defect characterization, microstructure analysis, imaging, and chemical analysis.
• Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations to improve process performance and yield.
• Correlate atomic-scale characterization results with process conditions and device performance.
• Develop innovative solutions for advanced semiconductor device characterization.
• Apply emerging and established metrology technologies to address process challenges.
• Maintain TEM and FIB/SEM systems through calibration, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and performance optimization.
• Develop and improve sample preparation techniques, metrology methods, and workflow automation.
• Collaborate with customers, process development teams, and equipment vendors to drive technology roadmaps and problem resolution.
• Generate technical reports, presentations, and recommendations based on analytical findings.
• Own and support one or more of the following metrology tools: SP7, Ellipsometer, XRR/XRD, XRF, FTIR, Hg Probe, Four-Point Probe (4PP), or AFM.

• BS or MS in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Semiconductor Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline.

• Minimum 4 years of hands‑on experience operating TEM and FIB/SEM systems in a semiconductor environment.
• Experience with SP7, Ellipsometry, XRR/XRD, XRF, FTIR, Hg Probe, 4PP, VPD, or AFM is preferred.
• Proven ability to independently lead technical discussions with customers and cross‑functional engineering teams.
• Demonstrated ownership of metrology tools and laboratory operations.

• Strong understanding of TEM fundamentals, crystallography, diffraction, materials physics, and semiconductor devices.
• Ability to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot metrology tool recipes.
• Experience analyzing thin‑film physical, structural, and electrical characterization data.
• Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve particle and defectivity issues.
• Experience designing and executing statistically sound DOE experiments.
• Proficiency with JMP or similar statistical analysis software.
• Strong data analysis, visualization, technical writing, and presentation skills.

• Self‑starter with a high level of ownership and accountability.
• Strong problem‑solving, critical thinking, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Positive, collaborative, and customer‑focused attitude.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced semiconductor R&D environment.

• Location: Hillsboro, OR (Onsite)
• Travel: Up to 10%
• Relocation Assistance: Available
• Salary Range: $130,000 – $150,000 annually

Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and job‑related skills. Kokusai Electric offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and additional incentive opportunities where applicable.

Kokusai is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Please submit your resume to K and reference REQ #1089