Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs at KLA with Visa Sponsorship
Mechanical Design Engineer jobs at KLA sit at the intersection of precision hardware development and semiconductor equipment innovation. KLA actively sponsors work visas for this function, making it a strong target if you're an international candidate with experience in mechanical systems, CAD design, or equipment engineering.
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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.
Group/Division
With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA’s metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The Film and Scatterometry Technology (FaST) Division provides industry leading metrology solutions for worldwide semiconductor IC manufacturers. The FaST Division portfolio of metrology products includes hardware and software solutions for optical film thickness, optical critical dimension (CD), composition, and resistivity measurement systems. These products are essential for the IC manufacturers as they provide critical metrology capabilities for the development and implementation of their advanced IC processes. The FaST division is committed to support our customers to achieve performance entitlement of our solution and we effectively partner with our customers from their early research and development phase to the high volume in-line manufacturing implementation specific for their process needs. The division consists of a global team located in US, Israel, China, and India.
Job Description/Preferred Qualifications
We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design and development of precision mechanical systems for advanced semiconductor equipment. In this role, you will translate product requirements into robust design solutions, drive feasibility and analysis activities, and partner cross-functionally to bring complex subsystems from concept through release. The ideal candidate combines solid mechanical engineering fundamentals, hands-on design experience, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative development environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive product and subsystem requirements definition and specification.
- Conduct feasibility studies to evaluate design concepts, risks, and tradeoffs.
- Develop conceptual and detailed mechanical designs, drawings, and models using 3D CAD tools such as Pro/ENGINEER or Creo.
- Perform engineering analyses, including fluid, thermal, vibration, and finite element analysis (FEA).
- Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles to support robust design intent.
- Complete detailed tolerance stack-up analyses to validate performance and manufacturability.
- Lead and facilitate design reviews throughout the product development lifecycle.
- Coordinate procurement of prototype components and materials.
- Support prototype assembly, integration, and testing activities.
- Execute system-level integration and verification testing.
- Create assembly instructions and test procedures to support development and manufacturing readiness.
- Prepare documentation for release and ensure effective handoff to manufacturing.
- Collaborate closely with optics, systems, manufacturing, and service engineering teams to ensure seamless subsystem and system integration.
- Partner with suppliers to define requirements, monitor progress, and ensure design objectives are met.
- Identify and resolve product issues across all phases of the product lifecycle.
Typical Design Challenges
- Precision mechanical design involving large and complex tolerance stack-ups
- Design for ultra-high vacuum environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal forming, and additive manufacturing.
- Solid knowledge of precision machine design principles.
- Solid understanding of statics, mechanics of materials, fluid flow, and heat transfer.
- Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling; Creo or SolidWorks preferred.
- Familiarity with fabrication methods including machining, sheet metal, welding, and cast components.
- Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, including design principles, machine elements, materials, and fabrication methods.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: opto-mechanical systems, vacuum systems, inspection equipment or similar instrumentation, motion control, electronics, tooling and test fixture design, supplier management, new product introduction, or manufacturing support.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to team objectives.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain attention to detail.
- Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced semiconductor development environment.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) or work experience of 0 years, Master's Level Degree or work experience of 2 years, Bachelor's Level Degree or work experience of 3 years.
Base Pay Range: $117,800.00 - $200,300.00 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.
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.
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.
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.
Group/Division
With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA’s metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The Film and Scatterometry Technology (FaST) Division provides industry leading metrology solutions for worldwide semiconductor IC manufacturers. The FaST Division portfolio of metrology products includes hardware and software solutions for optical film thickness, optical critical dimension (CD), composition, and resistivity measurement systems. These products are essential for the IC manufacturers as they provide critical metrology capabilities for the development and implementation of their advanced IC processes. The FaST division is committed to support our customers to achieve performance entitlement of our solution and we effectively partner with our customers from their early research and development phase to the high volume in-line manufacturing implementation specific for their process needs. The division consists of a global team located in US, Israel, China, and India.
Job Description/Preferred Qualifications
We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design and development of precision mechanical systems for advanced semiconductor equipment. In this role, you will translate product requirements into robust design solutions, drive feasibility and analysis activities, and partner cross-functionally to bring complex subsystems from concept through release. The ideal candidate combines solid mechanical engineering fundamentals, hands-on design experience, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative development environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive product and subsystem requirements definition and specification.
- Conduct feasibility studies to evaluate design concepts, risks, and tradeoffs.
- Develop conceptual and detailed mechanical designs, drawings, and models using 3D CAD tools such as Pro/ENGINEER or Creo.
- Perform engineering analyses, including fluid, thermal, vibration, and finite element analysis (FEA).
- Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles to support robust design intent.
- Complete detailed tolerance stack-up analyses to validate performance and manufacturability.
- Lead and facilitate design reviews throughout the product development lifecycle.
- Coordinate procurement of prototype components and materials.
- Support prototype assembly, integration, and testing activities.
- Execute system-level integration and verification testing.
- Create assembly instructions and test procedures to support development and manufacturing readiness.
- Prepare documentation for release and ensure effective handoff to manufacturing.
- Collaborate closely with optics, systems, manufacturing, and service engineering teams to ensure seamless subsystem and system integration.
- Partner with suppliers to define requirements, monitor progress, and ensure design objectives are met.
- Identify and resolve product issues across all phases of the product lifecycle.
Typical Design Challenges
- Precision mechanical design involving large and complex tolerance stack-ups
- Design for ultra-high vacuum environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal forming, and additive manufacturing.
- Solid knowledge of precision machine design principles.
- Solid understanding of statics, mechanics of materials, fluid flow, and heat transfer.
- Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling; Creo or SolidWorks preferred.
- Familiarity with fabrication methods including machining, sheet metal, welding, and cast components.
- Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, including design principles, machine elements, materials, and fabrication methods.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: opto-mechanical systems, vacuum systems, inspection equipment or similar instrumentation, motion control, electronics, tooling and test fixture design, supplier management, new product introduction, or manufacturing support.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to team objectives.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain attention to detail.
- Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced semiconductor development environment.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) or work experience of 0 years, Master's Level Degree or work experience of 2 years, Bachelor's Level Degree or work experience of 3 years.
Base Pay Range: $117,800.00 - $200,300.00 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.
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.
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.
Tips for Finding Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs at KLA
Align your CAD portfolio to KLA's toolsets
KLA builds inspection and metrology equipment with exacting mechanical tolerances. Before applying, ensure your portfolio highlights experience with SolidWorks or Pro/E, thermal management design, or precision motion systems, the skill language their job descriptions use.
Target roles tied to active product programs
KLA's Mechanical Design Engineer openings cluster around specific product lines like wafer inspection or process control tools. Filter open roles by division to identify teams actively building headcount, not just backfilling, since those positions move faster through sponsorship approvals.
Browse KLA's open roles through Migrate Mate
Migrate Mate filters Mechanical Design Engineer openings at companies with a verified sponsorship track record. Use it to surface KLA roles that are actively open and match your visa type before applying directly through KLA's careers portal.
Prepare your F-1 OPT timeline before interviews
If you're on OPT, calculate your remaining authorization window before your first KLA interview. If your end date falls within six months of a potential start date, raise it early so the recruiting team can assess H-1B cap timing or CPT overlap without it becoming a late-stage blocker.
Understand how PERM affects your long-term path
KLA sponsors EB-2 and EB-3 Green Cards, which require DOL's PERM labor certification. For Mechanical Design Engineer roles, that process typically starts after one to two years of employment. Asking about this timeline in the offer stage is reasonable and shows you understand how employer-sponsored immigration works.
Request H-1B premium processing if your start date is tight
USCIS premium processing reduces the H-1B adjudication window to 15 business days. If your OPT expires close to your intended start date at KLA, ask your recruiter whether the company covers premium processing fees, many large manufacturing employers do for critical engineering hires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does KLA sponsor H-1B visas for Mechanical Design Engineers?
Yes, KLA sponsors H-1B visas for Mechanical Design Engineers. The company has a consistent track record of filing H-1B petitions for engineering roles across its hardware and equipment development teams. If you're on OPT transitioning to H-1B, or applying directly from abroad, KLA's recruiting team is experienced with the cap and lottery process.
How do I apply for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs at KLA?
Apply through KLA's careers portal at kla.com. Search for Mechanical Design Engineer roles filtered by location and product division. Tailor your resume to emphasize precision mechanical design, GD&T proficiency, and relevant CAD tools. If you need visa sponsorship, note it clearly in your application. You can also use Migrate Mate to identify open KLA roles matched to your visa type before applying.
Which visa types does KLA commonly sponsor for Mechanical Design Engineers?
KLA sponsors H-1B, TN visa, J-1 visa, and F-1 OPT and CPT for Mechanical Design Engineer roles, along with EB-2 and EB-3 immigrant visa pathways for longer-term employees. TN visa is available to Canadian and Mexican nationals whose role qualifies as an engineer under USMCA. The right category depends on your nationality, degree, and where you are in the immigration process.
What qualifications does KLA expect for Mechanical Design Engineer roles?
Most KLA Mechanical Design Engineer postings require a bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field. Practical experience with SolidWorks or Pro/ENGINEER, tolerance stack-up analysis, and hardware development in a manufacturing or semiconductor equipment environment carries significant weight. Advanced roles may expect familiarity with thermal or vacuum system design, which is common in KLA's inspection tool product lines.
How do I navigate the visa sponsorship process timeline when joining KLA?
Start tracking your authorization window as soon as you enter the interview process. If you're on F-1 OPT, confirm your remaining days and whether your role qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. KLA's HR and legal teams handle H-1B petitions through USCIS, but the process takes time, so aligning your start date with petition filing windows early avoids last-minute complications.