Head of Advanced Research & Development - SPTS Division

Company Overview

The SPTS division of KLA designs, manufactures and markets wafer processing solutions for the global semiconductor and related industries. SPTS provides industry‑leading etch and deposition process technologies on a range of single wafer handling platforms. End‑market applications include MEMS, advanced packaging, LED, high‑speed RF device IC’s and power semiconductors. SPTS is part of KLA Corporation which develops industry‑leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry.

We provide advanced process control and process‑enabling solutions for manufacturing wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. In close collaboration with leading customers across the globe, our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem‑solvers design solutions that move the world forward.

This role will be based in Newport Wales, but we may consider this person working out of KLA’s Milpitas, CA headquarters with regular and ongoing travel to Wales required. The Advanced R&D team this person will recruit and lead and the current product development team will all be in Wales.

Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Head of Advanced Research & Development directs and implements KLA’s research initiatives for future and emerging wafer processing technologies. Research & Development will play a vital role in delivering industry leading semiconductor plasma processing technologies, aimed at increasing KLA’s competitive position.

You will be responsible for delivering highly strategic research and development work and driving our strategic planning process related to future technology investments. You will be required to build strong relationships with key strategic partners and suppliers, which will be pivotal to this role.

• Grow and develop a team of like‑minded R&D specialists with a passion for technology development
• Deliver future, highly differentiated technologies that can be implemented to drive increased product performance
• Develop strategic supply chain relationships for critical components
• Drive the strategic planning process for future technology investment

Work with other Heads of Departments/Directors to ensure communication flows across the organisation.

• Minimum 10 years of experience as a Researcher
• Master’s Degree or higher, ideally Physics or a relevant research field with experience in plasma processing research
• Strong ability to work outside KLA with customers, suppliers and other organizations
• Proven track record of successful R&D projects

• As an individual possess a strong vision for technology development
• Ability to manage a team and lead projects
• Qualitative and quantitative research mastery
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to communicate well at Senior Management level
• High level of problem solving and decision‑making abilities
• Ability to analyse and interpret data
• Ability to develop strategies and plans

• Doctorate (Academic) with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience
• Master’s Level Degree with a minimum of 13 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor’s Level Degree with a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience

We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees.

KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer