Senior Controls Engineer at Axcelis

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a Senior Motion Control Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced robotic and automation systems for semiconductor manufacturing equipment. This role requires deep technical expertise in motion control, strong system-level thinking, and the ability to drive solutions from concept through production while collaborating across disciplines and with external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead motion control system analysis, simulation, and testing to develop robust, high-performance solutions.

• Architect, design, and implement control systems, including requirements definition, schematics, firmware, and cable designs.

• Program, tune, and optimize motion controllers to meet demanding performance, reliability, and safety requirements.

• Define and execute system-level test strategies; design and build test fixtures to qualify, validate, and troubleshoot robots and controllers.

• Troubleshoot complex system-level issues and provide expert technical support to manufacturing and field teams.

• Drive Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and maintain accurate, traceable design documentation.

• Ensure designs meet applicable safety and regulatory standards including UL, IEC, NFPA, and SEMI.

• Collaborate cross-functionally and with external suppliers to resolve technical challenges and improve manufacturability.

• Act as a technical leader and mentor while fostering a positive, results-driven engineering culture.

• Travel domestically and internationally as required (less than 10%).

Requirements

• Senior-level expertise in motion control systems and robotics with a demonstrated ability to execute independently.

• Deep understanding of closed-loop control theory and its application to servo motor systems.

• Extensive experience programming motion controllers and optimizing real-world system performance.

• Strong knowledge of motion feedback devices (encoders) and industrial communication protocols, including Macro Ring, Modbus TCP, and EtherCAT.

• Proven ability to create and review control system schematics and cable design specifications.

• Working knowledge of safety and compliance standards, including UL, IEC, NFPA, and SEMI.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong cross-functional collaboration capabilities.

• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced development environment.

• Ability to work in a cleanroom environment.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field required. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience

Minimum 3+ years of hands-on experience developing, documenting, and testing semiconductor manufacturing equipment or similarly complex electromechanical systems, demonstrating increasing technical responsibility and ownership.

Preferred Experience

• SCARA robot control systems.

• Omron PMAC (formerly Delta Tau) controllers and Macro Ring communication.

• Vacuum control systems.

• System-level experience with semiconductor process tools, including EFEM wafer handling systems.

• Ability to work onsite a minimum of three days per week.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

It is the policy of Axcelis to provide equal opportunity in all areas of employment for all persons free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, age, color, national origin, disability status, medical condition (including pregnancy), veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Axcelis will provide reasonable accommodation necessary to enable a disabled candidate or employee to perform the essential functions of the position, unless the accommodation would create an undue hardship for the Company.

U.S. BASE SALARY RANGE

$124,050.32 - $186,075.49

This base salary range reflects the typical compensation for this role across U.S. locations.

Our salary ranges are determined by role and level; individual pay is determined based on

multiple factors, including job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, work

location, and internal equity. The range provides the opportunity for growth and progression as

you develop within the role.

Base pay is one part of our U.S. total compensation package which includes eligibility in the

Axcelis Team Incentive bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits package (for regular

employees working 20+ hours a week).