Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION Senior Mechanical Engineer Axcelis is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to design and deliver critical hardware for next-generation semiconductor capital equipment. In this role, you will own subsystem designs and drive end-to-end engineering execution , developing solutions that directly impact tool performance, wafer-level outcomes, and customer productivity . You will work on tightly integrated electromechanical systems where mechanical design directly impacts system performance, throughput, and reliability , partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver differentiated technology to leading semiconductor manufacturers. Role Focus and Impact Own end-to-end design, development, and validation of mechanical subsystems Translate system and process requirements into robust hardware solutions Directly influence performance, yield, and reliability at the system and customer level Operate as a system thinker , connecting mechanical design decisions to overall tool behavior Key Responsibilities Design and develop mechanical subsystems and assemblies for advanced semiconductor equipment Own engineering execution from concept through validation and release , delivering complete solutions to technical challenges Translate system-level and process requirements into clear mechanical design requirements Perform design tradeoffs and risk assessments , selecting optimal solutions based on performance, cost, and schedule Conduct engineering analyses (tolerance, thermal, structural), validating designs through both simulation and first-principles calculations Plan and execute structured testing and validation , including prototype builds and experimental characterization Analyze test and field data to identify trends, validate performance, and drive design improvements Collaborate cross-functionally with process, electrical, controls, manufacturing, and suppliers to deliver integrated solutions Troubleshoot complex system issues using root cause methods and data-driven approaches Ensure designs meet performance, reliability, manufacturability, and SEMI/safety requirements Communicate design decisions, technical risks, and progress to stakeholders with clarity and ownership Required Qualifications BS in Mechanical Engineering required (MS preferred) 8–12 years of experience designing complex electromechanical systems Demonstrated ownership of subsystems or major components in a product development environment Strong proficiency in 3D CAD and PLM tools (Creo/Windchill or equivalent) Solid experience with mechanism design, tolerance analysis, and engineering fundamentals Working knowledge of FEA and analytical methods for design validation (Ansys preferred) Ability to independently drive design work while collaborating across teams Strong communication and problem-solving skills Preferred Experience Semiconductor capital equipment or vacuum system design Precision motion, robotics, wafer handling, or automation systems Experience in new product development (NPI) environments with fast iteration cycles Exposure to high-reliability systems and customer-driven requirements Familiarity with SEMI standards and cleanroom design considerations Why Join Axcelis Own meaningful portions of a complex system —not just individual parts Work on high-value, differentiated technology used by leading chip manufacturers Gain experience in both detailed mechanical design and system-level integration Collaborate in a highly technical, execution-focused engineering culture Clear path to advancement into Principal and Staff engineering roles What We Are Looking For A high-performing individual contributor who takes pride in delivering robust designs An engineer who understands how detail-level decisions impact system-level performance Someone who thrives in technically challenging, fast-paced development environments A collaborator who raises the bar through strong engineering discipline and design reviews 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 $121,050.08 - $181,575.12 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).

Requirements

Must-haves

Senior Mechanical Engineer
Role Focus and Impact
Own end-to-end design, development, and validation of mechanical subsystems
Translate system and process requirements into robust hardware solutions
Directly influence performance, yield, and reliability at the system and customer level
Operate as a system thinker , connecting mechanical design decisions to overall tool behavior
Design and develop mechanical subsystems and assemblies for advanced semiconductor equipment
Own engineering execution from concept through validation and release , delivering complete solutions to technical challenges
Translate system-level and process requirements into clear mechanical design requirements
Perform design tradeoffs and risk assessments , selecting optimal solutions based on performance, cost, and schedule
Conduct engineering analyses (tolerance, thermal, structural), validating designs through both simulation and first-principles calculations
Plan and execute structured testing and validation , including prototype builds and experimental characterization

Nice-to-haves

BS in Mechanical Engineering required (MS preferred)
Working knowledge of FEA and analytical methods for design validation (Ansys preferred)
Semiconductor capital equipment or vacuum system design
Precision motion, robotics, wafer handling, or automation systems
Experience in new product development (NPI) environments with fast iteration cycles
Exposure to high-reliability systems and customer-driven requirements
Familiarity with SEMI standards and cleanroom design considerations
Why Join Axcelis
Own meaningful portions of a complex system —not just individual parts
Work on high-value, differentiated technology used by leading chip manufacturers
Gain experience in both detailed mechanical design and system-level integration
Collaborate in a highly technical, execution-focused engineering culture

Application prep

Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.

Platform: workday
Effort: long