Research Chemist

Company Overview
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays.

The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems.

There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

KLA is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Research Chemist to join our research and development team focused on advancing analytical technologies for the semiconductor industry. In this role, you will lead the development of next-generation chemical analyzers used to monitor and control critical process fluids in semiconductor manufacturing. Working at the intersection of chemistry, electrochemistry, instrumentation, and product development, you will drive scientific innovation from concept through commercialization, helping deliver differentiated solutions that enable our customers' most advanced manufacturing processes.

This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, publish technical work, contribute to intellectual property development, and make a significant impact on the future of semiconductor process analytics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of innovative chemical analyzers for process fluids used in semiconductor manufacturing, driving new product concepts from early research through commercialization.
• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods to support accurate chemical measurement, process monitoring, and advanced process control applications.
• Drive technical innovation to enhance product performance, expand capabilities, and create differentiated solutions for customers.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including engineering, product management, and manufacturing to design, develop, and launch analyzer systems.
• Plan, design, and execute laboratory experiments; analyze complex data sets and communicate findings through technical reports and presentations.
• Support product development activities through testing, troubleshooting, technical documentation, and ongoing product support.
• Develop and validate analytical methodologies, ensuring compliance with scientific best practices and maintaining accurate, up-to-date documentation.
• Author scientific publications, patents, technical papers, and conference presentations to showcase technology advancements and thought leadership.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and scientific developments relevant to analytical instrumentation and semiconductor process chemistry.
• Travel up to 20% domestically and internationally to support customers, collaborate with global teams, and attend technical conferences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong foundation in analytical chemistry, with experience developing and validating laboratory-based analytical methods.
• Hands-on experience with electrochemical techniques, including voltammetry methods such as cyclic voltammetry, stripping voltammetry, and related electroanalytical approaches.
• Experience developing analytical instruments, sensors, or measurement systems for industrial, semiconductor, chemical, or related applications is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation, experimental design, and statistical data analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex…