Principal Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.

Job Summary & Responsibilities

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Software Engineer in Test to drive quality engineering practices across our software development lifecycle. This role combines deep technical expertise in test automation with leadership responsibilities, ensuring high-quality, scalable, and reliable software systems. The ideal candidate will lead a team of SDETs, define testing strategies, and collaborate closely with engineering, product, and DevOps teams.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead, mentor, and grow a team of Software Engineers in Test.

• Define and implement the overall quality strategy, test architecture, and automation roadmap.

• Establish best practices for test automation, CI/CD integration, and quality engineering.

• Drive a shift-left testing approach and promote a culture of quality ownership across teams.

Technical Execution

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable test automation frameworks (UI, API, performance, and integration).

• Ensure high test coverage through automated testing strategies.

• Improve test reliability, execution speed, and maintainability.

• Conduct root cause analysis of defects and implement preventive measures.

• Contribute to code reviews, ensuring testability and quality standards.

Collaboration

• Partner with developers, product managers, and DevOps engineers to define acceptance criteria and quality metrics.

• Participate in sprint planning, backlog grooming, and release planning.

• Advocate for testability, observability, and resilience in system design.

• Work closely with CI/CD teams to integrate automated tests into pipelines.

Quality Assurance & Metrics

• Define, track, and report quality KPIs (defect density, test coverage, automation pass rate, etc.).

• Drive continuous improvement of testing processes and tools.

• Ensure compliance with performance, security, and scalability standards.

Qualifications

Why Join Onto Innovation?

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Compensation & Growth

• Base Salary Range:

$144,000.00 - $216,000.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.

• Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.

Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:

Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.

Important Note on Export Compliance

For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).