Job Specifications
Description
/Preferred Qualifications
Team: Algorithm Broadband Plasma Wafer Inspection (BBP)
Type: Full-time Internship (Summer preferred; start date flexible)
Location: Milpitas, CA (on-site)
Why this role
Join the BBP Algorithm team that powers some of the worlds most advanced optical patterned wafer inspection systems. Youll help push the state of the art in computer vision and deep learning to detect yield-limiting defectsimproving sensitivity, robustness, and throughput on production tools used in leading fabs.
What Youll Do
Advance AI/ML models for defect detection, classification, and anomaly discovery on real wafer imagery; design experiments, define metrics, and drive SOTA baselines forward.
Curate and engineer datasets (balancing/partitioning, augmentation strategies, labeling guidance) to maximize label efficiency and generalization across layers, technologies, and tools.
Train, evaluate, and iterate using modern deep learning frameworks; build repeatable pipelines for preprocessing, training, inference, and reporting.
Prototype algorithmic ideas (e.g., semi/self-supervised learning, domain adaptation, uncertainty estimation, active learning) and transition the best candidates into production-quality code.
Optimize for scale and speed (efficient ops, quantization/pruning, GPU utilization) to meet on-tool and near-real-time constraints.
Collaborate cross-functionally with system engineering and software teams on integration, testing, and demo/beta evaluations; contribute to documentation and quality practices.
Minimum Qualifications
Currently pursuing MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field (exceptional BS candidates considered).
Hands-on experience training deep learning models for vision (classification, detection, segmentation, or anomaly).
Strong foundations in linear algebra, probability/statistics, and optimization; ability to analyze complex, noisy data.
Proficiency with Python and modern DL frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow) on Linux; solid software fundamentals (Git, testing, code review).
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of image processing / computer vision beyond DL (filters, registration, morphology, feature engineering).
Experience with C++ in Linux/Windows and/or CUDA/GPU acceleration; familiarity with performance profiling and memory optimization.
Exposure to MLOps practices (experiment tracking, model/data versioning, reproducible pipelines).
Background or interest in semiconductor manufacturing (lithography, VLSI processes) is a plus.
How Youll Grow
Dedicated technical mentorship and collaboration within the Algorithm team; structured exposure to BBP inspection workflows and evaluation practices.
Opportunities to present results, influence model roadmaps, and ship improvements that impact production inspections on real customer tools.
Internship details
Duration: Typically, 1216 weeks (full-time) with flexible start based on academic calendar.
Work location: Milpitas, CA; onsite.
Equal Opportunity Employer
KLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires less than 1 year of related experience
Base Pay Range: $47.00 - $57.00 per hour based on pursuit of a Masters and Ph.D.Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLAs 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