Research Scientist Intern - Coating Characterization

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.

What You'll Do

In this role, you will play a key part in advancing business priorities by delivering high-impact work across your area of expertise.

KLA is looking for summer interns at our Ann Arbor, Michigan location. This position provides an opportunity to work with engineering teams on projects aiming to characterize and improve the performance and capabilities of optical coatings for KLA’s next generation inspection and metrology tools!

In particular, the intern would work in the following areas:

• Develop methods and test plans for characterization of optics and thin-film coatings.
• Work with vacuum chambers and related equipment.
• Design, set up and execute multi-disciplinary experiments.
• Analyze data and prepare summary reports.
• Work with simulations based on physical models and build correlations with experimental data.
• Collaborate with scientists at external partner organizations.

Qualifications:

• Experience with high vacuum systems.
• Knowledge of surface and thin-film characterization methods and data analysis.
• Experience with characterization techniques such as XPS, AFM and SEM/EDX a plus.
• Strong academic record.
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) or simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS) is desirable.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++ is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong analytical mindset.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Currently enrolled in 4-year graduate program in Mechanical Engineering or related field with immigration authorization to undertake corporate internship projects.

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: $27.00 - $48.00 per hour based on pursuit of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D.
Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-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.