Lead Embedded Software Engineer

Your Role:
Lead, Innovate, Grow

• Seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Embedded Software Engineer within the RAPID division, instrumental in designing, developing, and sustaining complex embedded software powering industry‑leading reticle inspection systems. Provide technical leadership, mentor team members, and contribute significantly to architecture and implementation of real‑time control systems, sensor image capture pipelines, and hardware interfaces.
• Exceptional technical leaders aiming to grow into an engineering & project management role within KLA over the next few years. Opportunities to develop leadership skills, influence team direction, and contribute to project planning and execution, preparing for project management responsibilities.

• Spearhead the design, development, and deployment of complex software/firmware for machine control in semiconductor inspection systems. Project involves demanding real‑time embedded applications using C/C++ on RTOS such as real‑time Linux or VxWorks for high‑reliability application.
• Design and implement robust, scalable software for system control, high‑speed data acquisition, image processing, and intricate hardware interaction, translating system‑level requirements into software design and implementation.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams – mechanical, systems engineering, electrical, optics, opto‑mechanics, algorithms, and applications – to build integrated solutions.
• Guide junior engineers, share expertise, and cultivate a team environment focused on technical excellence and growth.
• Champion modern software development methodologies (Agile, CI/CD, automated testing) to ensure quality and efficiency. Define and execute test plans, measure performance of key subsystems, and document, analyze and present testing results.
• Dive deep to troubleshoot complex system‑level issues and optimize performance‑critical software.
• Contribute to project planning, risk management, and technical roadmap discussions. Participate in all stages of development – design, implementation, deployment, testing, and troubleshooting.

• MS in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science/Control Systems or similar fields.
• 8+ years of working experience in an industrial environment in embedded software development.
• Strong knowledge of C/C++ programming, Object‑Oriented Design & Programming.
• Strong knowledge of Linux/RTOS OS environments, multi‑threading, synchronization, and SW architecture design.
• Knowledge of communication protocols such as Serial‑RS232, Ethernet/EtherCAT/TCP‑IP socket/network communication and related programming.
• Strong analytical capabilities, written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills to present software design in reviews. Demonstrated perseverance and ability to work collaboratively.
• Excellent communication skills, self‑motivated, high curiosity, fast learner, and strive to turn prototype ideas into quality production code for mission‑critical applications.
• Strong software debugging and troubleshooting 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 systems 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.

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.

$ – $ Annually

USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA

KLA’s total rewards package may include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits; 401(K) with company matching; employee stock purchase program (ESPP); student debt assistance; tuition reimbursement; development and career growth opportunities; financial planning benefits; wellness benefits including employee assistance program (EAP); paid time off and paid company holidays;

family care and bonding leave.

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. Please contact  to request accommodation.