Company Overview
Group/Division
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.
In this role, you will:
Support project teams with the design and development of mechanical components and sub‑systems for vacuum platforms
Create and maintain 3D CAD models and engineering drawings, following established standards and best practices
Assist with vacuum calculations and basic engineering analyses to help ensure system designs meet requirements
Take part in design reviews, learning how to incorporate feedback and improve design quality
Help evaluate new materials and components for use in ultra‑high vacuum (UHV) and ultra‑clean vacuum (UCV) environments
Support laboratory testing, inspection, and validation activities, including work in cleanroom or controlled environments
Assist with quality checks of incoming parts from suppliers to confirm they meet specifications
Contribute to clear, well‑organised engineering documentation
Collaborate with colleagues across engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams in a supportive, inclusive environment
- 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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