The SPTS division of KLA, designs, manufactures and markets wafer processing solutions for the global semiconductor and related industries. SPTS provides industry leading etch and deposition process technologies on a range of single wafer handling platforms. End-market applications include micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), advanced packaging, LED, high speed RF device IC’s and power semiconductors. SPTS is part of KLA Corporation which develops industry-leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry. We provide advanced process control and process-enabling solutions for manufacturing wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. In close collaboration with leading customers across the globe, our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers design solutions that move the world forward.
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. Central Engineering is KLA's largest engineering organization comprised of 9 Centers-of-Excellence (CoE) in various disciplines applied across all product groups in the company. These CoE include Handling & Automation, Precision Motion Control, Sensors & Image Acquisition, Platform Design, and Packaging Engineering, among others. Talent includes over 500 engineers across global centers in Israel, China, India, and the US. Each CoE contributes not just talent and deliverables per discipline toward product programs, but also subject matter expertise, best practices, roadmaps, specialized facilities, apparatus, models, and analytics. These differentiate KLA not only in WHAT we do, but also in HOW we do it.
Job Description/Preferred Qualifications
KLA is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer (Vacuum Platforms) to join our Central Engineering team based in Newport, Wales, UK. You’ll be part of a collaborative, multi‑disciplinary team tackling complex challenges in vacuum system technology across multiple product platforms.
With guidance from experienced vacuum engineers, you’ll develop hands‑on skills in mechanical design, CAD modelling, testing, and problem‑solving while supporting the development of next‑generation KLA tools. This role is ideal for someone who is motivated to learn, grow, and contribute to real‑world, high‑impact engineering work.
Support laboratory testing, inspection, and validation activities, including work in cleanroom or controlled environments
Collaborate with colleagues across engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams in a supportive, inclusive environment
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You’ll receive mentoring, training, and ongoing feedback to help you build confidence and technical capability as your career develops.
Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline (or hold equivalent level of experience)
Experience with 3D CAD modelling tools (experience with PTC Creo / Pro‑Engineer is desirable)
Mechanical design background applied to vacuum chambers, gas delivery, pumping architectures, and precision assemblies
Experience in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and precision machine design as applied to vacuum environments
Understanding of engineering drawings and knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
Foundational knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, materials, and manufacturing processes
Interest in precision engineering, vacuum systems, or high‑technology hardware development
Willingness to learn analytical methods such as thermal, fluid, or structural analysis with support from senior team members
Comfortable working in laboratory or cleanroom environments
Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills
Ability to work well within a diverse, multi‑disciplinary, and multicultural team
Internship, placement year, or academic project experience in mechanical design or hardware development
Exposure to semiconductor equipment, or clean manufacturing environments
Familiarity with engineering analysis or simulation tools
Occasional travel may be required to collaborate with other KLA sites or suppliers (up to 25%)
We support early‑career development through structured onboarding, mentoring, and learning opportunities
Annual leave starting at 25 days (plus bank holidays), contributory pension scheme, global bonus plan, cash health plan, cycle to work scheme, share scheme, rewards scheme, and life assurance.
Minimum Qualifications
We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees.
KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer
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