R2R Application Engineer (AI machine learning) III - (E3)

Description
 
The Automation Products Group in Applied Global Services is seeking a next-generation Run-to-Run/Advanced Process Control (R2R/APC) application development engineer who can integrate advanced process control (APC) with artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) technologies. This role is primarily responsible for defining, designing, developing, testing, and deploying high-performance R2R controllers and AI/ML models, integrating them into customer process environments with a strong focus on Virtual Metrology, Neural Networks, and Data Analytics applications. You will collaborate closely with R2R solution architects and project managers to deliver turnkey solutions while continuously optimizing and exploring new technologies. 
Additional responsibilities include involvement in presales and deployment activities. These responsibilities are as follows:

•    R2R Controller & AI/ML Model Design and Development
o    Design and develop new R2R controllers and Virtual Metrology modules, leveraging Neural Networks and machine learning models to optimize process control and improve manufacturing quality and yield.
o    Integrate AI/ML algorithms (e.g., Python + TensorFlow / PyTorch / Scikit-learn) with data analytics workflows within Applied Materials’ SmartFactory framework or other advanced infrastructures.

•    Virtual Metrology and Advanced Data Analytics
o    Apply AI/ML models to process and sensor data for Virtual Metrology, quality prediction, yield improvement, and root cause analysis.
o    Utilize advanced data analytics methods, such as multivariate analysis, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Fault Detection & Classification (FDC), to help customers optimize their manufacturing processes.

•    Deployment and System Integration
o    Assist or lead R2R/APC + AI/ML technology system integration, including MES, Dispatching, Scheduling, SPC, FDC, AMHS, Equipment Integration, IT, and Database systems.
o    Ensure that the deployment process meets customer IT security and performance requirements.

•    Pre-sales Support & Customer Relationship Management
o    Engage in technical discussions during the pre-sales phase, assessing customer needs and recommending solutions.
o    Support technical presentations, system demonstrations, and customer training programs.

•    Continuous Optimization & Technology Exploration
o    Collect and analyze project performance and impact, continuously improving and optimizing R2R/APC and AI/ML solutions.
o    Stay up to date with the latest AI/ML, Virtual Metrology, Neural Network, and Advanced Manufacturing trends, evaluating and incorporating emerging technologies into company products and solutions.

•    Act as a consultant to define working tasks and project scope for new customers seeking R2R services.

•    Manage R2R projects or consolidate contracts of work if necessary.

Successful candidates will have advanced knowledge of R2R control and will be able to create controllers within the Applied Materials SmartFactory framework. Additionally, candidates will be proficient in working with customers at multiple organizational levels, gathering customer requirements, and resolving customer concerns.

Preferred Knowledge and Experience
•    Operational knowledge of typical factory automation and control systems, with a strong understanding of use cases driving the need for R2R/APC systems.
•    Additional understanding of MES, Dispatching, Scheduling, SPC, FDC, AMHS, Equipment Integration, general information technology, and database technology is a plus.
•    Proficiency in Python / R / C#, with experience using machine learning and deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, etc.).
•    Strong knowledge of data science workflows, including data preprocessing, feature engineering, model development, evaluation, and deployment.
•    Experience with data science is a plus.
•    Hands-on experience in building and applying Virtual Metrology models using Neural Networks or other regression/classification methods for measurement prediction is a plus
•    Expertise in statistical and multivariate analysis, including SPC, FDC, and other analytical tools is a plus.
•    Ability to collaborate effectively with customers, technical teams, project managers, and stakeholders, ensuring high-quality and timely project delivery.
•    Prior experience as a Project Manager (PM) or Technical Lead is a plus.
•    Experience with Smart Factory or Industry 4.0 AI/ML model implementations is a plus.
•    Experience with software development business processes is a plus
•    Direct experience using SmartFactory E3 R2R is a plus.

Qualifications and Education
•    Bachelor’s degree in engineering or computer science 
•    Strong written and verbal communication skills.
•    Knowledge of the semiconductor manufacturing business.
•    Proficiency in English and Chinese.

Applied Materials is committed to diversity in its workforce including Equal Employment Opportunity for Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
 

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's Degree

Skills:

Certifications:

Languages:

Years of Experience:

2 - 4 Years

Work Experience:

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Yes, 25% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

No

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All 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.