MATLAB Mechanical engineer

Horsham, PA (onsite)

Contract

MATLAB contractor to support PSP with simulation work

Overview:

The Simulation Engineer 3 will be responsible for developing and applying MATLAB-based models and simulations to support the design, development, and performance optimization of semiconductor etch tool components and subsystems. This is a key member of the engineering team, partnering closely with hardware, process, controls, and manufacturing to translate requirements into validated predictive models. The role focuses on physics-based and data-informed simulation (e.g., thermal, flow, and system-level behavior) to guide design decisions, de-risk prototypes, and improve tool performance and reliability.

Responsibilities:

Develop MATLAB/Simulink models to simulate etch tool components and subsystem behavior across operating conditions
Build physics-based and reduced-order models (ROMs) for component-level phenomena (e.g., thermal behavior, flow distribution, and system behavior)
Translate component requirements and tool performance targets into simulation assumptions, boundary conditions, and measurable acceptance criteria
Perform analytical studies and numerical simulations in MATLAB (e.g. parameter estimation, optimization, uncertainty/sensitivity analysis)
Partner with design and process teams to define simulation plans that inform component architecture, tolerances, and control strategies
Validate models using test data (DOE, characterization, tool logs) and ensure simulations are traceable, repeatable, and aligned with engineering best practices
Communicate simulation results via clear plots, reports, and presentations; explain limitations, assumptions, and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders
Provide simulation expertise while participating in design reviews and technical risk assessments for etch tool component changes
Support cross-functional execution by providing model-based inputs to schedules, build priorities, and supplier/component trade studies
Collaborate with lab and manufacturing teams to instrument components, collect data, and close the loop between simulation and hardware behavior
Develop simulation-based test plans and design-of-experiments (DOE) to quantify performance drivers and support prototype bring-up and troubleshooting
Create and maintain simulation documentation (assumptions, verification/validation, versioning) and release artifacts per configuration control processes
Support program milestones with model maturity planning (verification/validation gates) and clear deliverables that integrate with the product life cycle
Understand and adhere to applicable semiconductor equipment standards and internal modeling/verification practices

Qualifications:

BS Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 8 years of experience in simulation/modeling for complex electromechanical systems (semiconductor equipment experience preferred), or an MS degree with 6 years of experience. Demonstrated expertise building and validating MATLAB-based models is required. MS degree preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment as part of a multi-disciplinary team; able to take initiative, own full modeling efforts, and/or lead a small project team
Advanced proficiency with MATLAB; experience with Simulink is strongly preferred
Strong background in numerical methods, modeling of dynamic systems, and simulation verification/validation (V&V)
Experience handling experimental/tool data for model calibration (e.g., scripting, data cleaning, parameter fitting, statistical analysis)
Working knowledge of mechanical systems and/or controls sufficient to model actuators, sensors, and subsystem interactions in etch tools
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including requirements/specification development; ability to make technical presentations and communicate modeling assumptions and results
Knowledge of semiconductor etch equipment and component physics (e.g., gas delivery, thermal management, vacuum systems, RF/plasma interfaces) is a plus
Experience planning and executing modeling projects (scope, milestones, risks) is a plus
Hands-on mindset with ability to correlate models to hardware through testing, prototyping support, and structured troubleshooting
Proficient with common documentation and collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Office); experience with version control for code/models is a plus
Ability to travel up to 10% of the time to customer sites and/or supplier facilities on an as-needed basis

MATLAB Engineer / Embedded Engineer with MATLAB

Key skills

About this role