Optical Engineer III - New College Grad - Doctorate (Santa Clara, CA)

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. 

What We Offer

Salary:

$138,000.00 - $190,000.00

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more. 

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits. 

Join the Engineered Optics group at Applied Materials, where you’ll help shape the future of optical technology for both augmented reality displays and next generation packaged optics for data center networks. Our team is uniquely positioned at the intersection of fundamental materials innovation and advanced hardware engineering, competing with the world’s leading technology companies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and model nano/micro photonic structures for advanced optical applications.
• Develop new optical metrology techniques for display-related projects.
• Set up and optimize customized optical inspection tools.
• Lead or support small projects with moderate risks and resources.
• Collaborate across teams to integrate best practices and differentiate solutions in the market.
• Solve complex technical challenges and apply new perspectives to existing solutions.
• Build consensus and communicate technical information effectively, even when sensitive or complex.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have or soon possess a PhD degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• Available to start within 3 months, ideally no later than January 2026
• Hands-on experience with optical mechanics and free-space optics setups.
• Skilled in Python or Matlab for image analysis and hardware control.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 0-2 years of industrial experience in optical design and metrology.
• Proficient in using optical design software (e.g., Zemax, LightTools).
• Experience with optical display systems and microscopy.
• Track record of successful project leadership or mentoring less-experienced colleagues.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and competitive differentiators in optics.
• Ability to integrate technical solutions across cross-functional teams.

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

New College Grad

Travel:

Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.