New

Head of Advanced Research & Development - SPTS Division

KLA
United States, California, Milpitas
May 13, 2025
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 micro-electromechanical systems (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. Job Description/Preferred Qualifications This role will be based in Newport Wales, but we may consider this person working out of KLA's Milpitas, CA headquarter 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. Role Purpose 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. Duties 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 Strategic planning process for future technology investment Culture, Ethos, and Value Work with other Heads of Departments/Directors to ensure communication flows across the organisation. Person Specification 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 Skills & Knowledge As an individual possess a strong vision for technology development Ability to manage a team and lead projects Qualitive 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 Minimum Qualifications Doctorate (Academic) with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience OR Master's Level Degree with a minimum of 13 years of relevant experience OR 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 Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.