Design Engineer Jobs at KLA with Visa Sponsorship
Design Engineer jobs at KLA sit at the intersection of semiconductor equipment development and precision manufacturing, covering areas like optics, mechanical systems, and process integration. KLA has a well-established sponsorship infrastructure that supports international engineers across multiple visa categories, from OPT through long-term pathways.
Find Design Engineer Jobs at KLAOverview
Showing 5 of 31+ Design Engineer Jobs at KLA
See all 31+ Design Engineer Jobs at KLA
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Design Engineer Jobs at KLA.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
To make electronics, you need chips, wafers, transistors, reticles, and... To make these, you must see, test and manufacture them at scale—faster and better than ever before. That's where KLA comes in. Whether you're early in your career or an experienced professional, you'll solve complex challenges, work alongside brilliant minds and help shape the future of technology.
Group/Division
The Semiconductor Products and Customers (Semi PC) business unit designs, builds and sells KLA’s product portfolio to help chip manufacturers meet high-quality standards for technologies like AI, data centers, automotive and electronic devices. Our inspection, metrology, and analytics systems detect and monitor defects across logic and memory chips, specialty semiconductors, wafers, reticles, advanced packaging, process equipment and materials. We also develop technologies for specialty processes, IC substrates, and PCB manufacturing, including etch and deposition, component inspection, and imaging and analytics. The RAPID division leads the industry in reticle inspection solutions, helping ensure high lithography yields and cost-effective semiconductor manufacturing. Its systems support both mask shops and fabs by detecting defects early in the process, enabling faster, more reliable production.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this role, you will play a key part in advancing business priorities by delivering high-impact work across your area of expertise. We are looking for an exceptional engineer to join our Electrical Engineering organization. Our products combine innovative low-noise analog designs with sophisticated digital signal processing and high-performance electronics to deliver industry-leading semiconductor solutions. As part of our team, you will help develop the technologies that power the future of semiconductor manufacturing!
Main Responsibilities:
- Define FPGA firmware requirements and specifications, and develop designs from concept through production release.
- Design, implement, and debug FPGA firmware for embedded sensing and communication systems, including cameras, sensors, motors, and other peripherals.
- Design testbenches for simulation, perform timing analysis and closure, and verify FPGA functionality.
- Collaborate with hardware and embedded software engineers to develop FPGA firmware for high-performance mixed-signal systems.
- Understand and gather project specifications and performance requirements at the board and system levels. Adhere to project schedules and deliverables.
- Create and maintain technical documentation that meets established quality standards.
These responsibilities require close collaboration with Mechanical Engineering (ME), Optical Engineering (OE), Software Engineering (SW), Systems Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration and testing at both the subsystem and system levels.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Hands-on experience with complex FPGA firmware designs.
- Experience with Xilinx FPGAs (preferred) or Intel/Altera FPGAs.
- Proficiency with FPGA simulation tools such as Vivado, ModelSim, or equivalent.
- Proficiency with FPGA design tools such as Vivado or equivalent.
- Proficiency in hardware description languages such as Verilog or System Verilog.
- Strong understanding of FPGA timing analysis and the ability to resolve timing-related issues.
- Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment such as logic analyzers and oscilloscopes.
- Solid knowledge of interface protocols, including PCIe, Aurora, DDR4, 10GbE, SPI, and I²C.
- Solid knowledge of networking concepts and Embedded Linux build systems.
- Self-motivated and independent, with exceptional verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a team-oriented engineering environment.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and related work experience of 5 years; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 8 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 12 years.
ABOUT KLA
We provide advanced inspection tools, metrology systems, process solutions, and computational analytics that make electronics possible, tackling complex challenges. From electron and photon optics to machine learning and data analytics, we seek perfection at the most fundamental level of matter in the universe. If you want to make electronics that push industries forward and make the world a better place, join us.
TOTAL REWARDS
Base Pay Range: $167,300.00 - $245,367.00 Annually
Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA
KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave. Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
USE OF AI STATEMENT
At KLA, our interviews seek to understand your individual skills, problem-solving approach and authentic thinking. To ensure a fair and consistent evaluation, the use of AI, recording tools or other technologies to generate, suggest or provide responses during interviews—whether virtual or in person—is not permitted unless explicitly approved in advance as part of a reasonable accommodation or invited by the interviewer. Use of these tools may interfere with our ability to evaluate your individual qualifications and affect your candidacy. KLA is committed to advancing innovation through responsible AI, and we value candidates who share this mindset.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
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 us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation. For additional information, view the US Know Your Rights poster on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website.
INTRODUCTION
To make electronics, you need chips, wafers, transistors, reticles, and... To make these, you must see, test and manufacture them at scale—faster and better than ever before. That's where KLA comes in. Whether you're early in your career or an experienced professional, you'll solve complex challenges, work alongside brilliant minds and help shape the future of technology.
Group/Division
The Semiconductor Products and Customers (Semi PC) business unit designs, builds and sells KLA’s product portfolio to help chip manufacturers meet high-quality standards for technologies like AI, data centers, automotive and electronic devices. Our inspection, metrology, and analytics systems detect and monitor defects across logic and memory chips, specialty semiconductors, wafers, reticles, advanced packaging, process equipment and materials. We also develop technologies for specialty processes, IC substrates, and PCB manufacturing, including etch and deposition, component inspection, and imaging and analytics. The RAPID division leads the industry in reticle inspection solutions, helping ensure high lithography yields and cost-effective semiconductor manufacturing. Its systems support both mask shops and fabs by detecting defects early in the process, enabling faster, more reliable production.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this role, you will play a key part in advancing business priorities by delivering high-impact work across your area of expertise. We are looking for an exceptional engineer to join our Electrical Engineering organization. Our products combine innovative low-noise analog designs with sophisticated digital signal processing and high-performance electronics to deliver industry-leading semiconductor solutions. As part of our team, you will help develop the technologies that power the future of semiconductor manufacturing!
Main Responsibilities:
- Define FPGA firmware requirements and specifications, and develop designs from concept through production release.
- Design, implement, and debug FPGA firmware for embedded sensing and communication systems, including cameras, sensors, motors, and other peripherals.
- Design testbenches for simulation, perform timing analysis and closure, and verify FPGA functionality.
- Collaborate with hardware and embedded software engineers to develop FPGA firmware for high-performance mixed-signal systems.
- Understand and gather project specifications and performance requirements at the board and system levels. Adhere to project schedules and deliverables.
- Create and maintain technical documentation that meets established quality standards.
These responsibilities require close collaboration with Mechanical Engineering (ME), Optical Engineering (OE), Software Engineering (SW), Systems Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration and testing at both the subsystem and system levels.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Hands-on experience with complex FPGA firmware designs.
- Experience with Xilinx FPGAs (preferred) or Intel/Altera FPGAs.
- Proficiency with FPGA simulation tools such as Vivado, ModelSim, or equivalent.
- Proficiency with FPGA design tools such as Vivado or equivalent.
- Proficiency in hardware description languages such as Verilog or System Verilog.
- Strong understanding of FPGA timing analysis and the ability to resolve timing-related issues.
- Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment such as logic analyzers and oscilloscopes.
- Solid knowledge of interface protocols, including PCIe, Aurora, DDR4, 10GbE, SPI, and I²C.
- Solid knowledge of networking concepts and Embedded Linux build systems.
- Self-motivated and independent, with exceptional verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a team-oriented engineering environment.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and related work experience of 5 years; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 8 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 12 years.
ABOUT KLA
We provide advanced inspection tools, metrology systems, process solutions, and computational analytics that make electronics possible, tackling complex challenges. From electron and photon optics to machine learning and data analytics, we seek perfection at the most fundamental level of matter in the universe. If you want to make electronics that push industries forward and make the world a better place, join us.
TOTAL REWARDS
Base Pay Range: $167,300.00 - $245,367.00 Annually
Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLA
KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave. Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
USE OF AI STATEMENT
At KLA, our interviews seek to understand your individual skills, problem-solving approach and authentic thinking. To ensure a fair and consistent evaluation, the use of AI, recording tools or other technologies to generate, suggest or provide responses during interviews—whether virtual or in person—is not permitted unless explicitly approved in advance as part of a reasonable accommodation or invited by the interviewer. Use of these tools may interfere with our ability to evaluate your individual qualifications and affect your candidacy. KLA is committed to advancing innovation through responsible AI, and we value candidates who share this mindset.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
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 us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation. For additional information, view the US Know Your Rights poster on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website.
See all 31+ Design Engineer Jobs at KLA
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Design Engineer Jobs at KLA.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Design Engineer Jobs at KLA
Align your degree to KLA's specialty occupation standard
KLA's Design Engineer roles typically require a degree in mechanical, electrical, or optical engineering. Confirm your transcripts reflect coursework that maps directly to the role's technical scope, since USCIS scrutinizes degree-to-job-duty alignment closely for H-1B petitions.
Target KLA's semiconductor equipment product lines
KLA hires Design Engineers across metrology, inspection, and process control equipment divisions. Tailoring your resume to a specific product line, rather than applying broadly, increases your fit signal and helps recruiters match you to teams with active headcount.
Start OPT early if you're on an F-1 visa
F-1 students applying to KLA should file for OPT at least 90 days before graduation. STEM OPT extension eligibility gives you up to 36 months of work authorization, which covers two full H-1B lottery cycles if your first registration isn't selected.
Clarify your H-1B timeline before accepting an offer
If you're between OPT and H-1B status, confirm KLA's intended filing period with your recruiter before signing. The H-1B cap season opens in March and employment can begin October 1, so your start date needs to account for that federal processing window.
Use Migrate Mate to filter open Design Engineer roles by sponsorship
Finding roles where KLA is actively hiring and sponsoring takes more than a general job board search. Use Migrate Mate to surface Design Engineer positions at KLA filtered by the visa types relevant to your situation, so you're only applying where sponsorship is confirmed.
Prepare for a PERM-backed Green Card conversation at offer stage
KLA's sponsorship track extends to Green Card pathways for engineering roles through PERM labor certification. If long-term permanent residency is a priority, ask your recruiter directly at the offer stage whether the role is eligible, since not all positions qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does KLA sponsor H-1B visas for Design Engineers?
Yes, KLA sponsors H-1B visas for Design Engineers. The company has a consistent track record of filing H-1B petitions for engineering roles across its semiconductor equipment divisions. If you're a current F-1 OPT holder or a candidate already on H-1B visa status, KLA's recruiting process is structured to accommodate both cap-subject filings and transfer petitions.
Which visa types does KLA support for Design Engineer roles?
KLA supports multiple visa categories for Design Engineers, including H-1B, F-1 OPT and CPT, TN visa for Canadian and Mexican nationals, J-1 visa, and EB-2 and EB-3 Green Card pathways. The right visa depends on your nationality, education, and career stage. TN visa is available to Canadians and Mexicans with engineering degrees under USMCA, while EB-2 and EB-3 require PERM labor certification sponsored by KLA.
What qualifications does KLA expect for Design Engineer positions?
KLA's Design Engineer roles typically require a bachelor's degree or higher in mechanical, electrical, optical, or systems engineering. Hands-on experience with CAD tools, tolerance analysis, or hardware design for precision equipment is commonly expected. Roles tied to metrology or inspection systems may require familiarity with optics or semiconductor manufacturing processes. A graduate degree can strengthen your profile for senior-level openings.
How do I apply for Design Engineer jobs at KLA?
You can browse and apply for Design Engineer roles at KLA directly through the KLA careers portal, or use Migrate Mate to find open positions filtered by visa sponsorship type so you can identify roles where your work authorization is supported before applying. When applying, tailor your resume to the specific product division, whether that's wafer inspection, metrology, or process control, and highlight relevant hardware design or semiconductor equipment experience.
How do I time my application if I'm waiting on an H-1B lottery result?
If you're on F-1 OPT and registered in the H-1B lottery, align your KLA application timeline so you have an offer in place before the March registration window. USCIS selects registrations in March and April, and approved petitions take effect October 1. KLA's HR teams are familiar with this cycle, so being transparent about your status early helps recruiters plan your start date accordingly.