AI & Metrology Development Engineer – Magnetic Recording Head

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: We are looking for a curious and driven candidate to join our Advanced Metrology team supporting magnetic recording head wafer fabrication. This is a hands-on technical role where you will apply data science, AI/ML, and programming skills to develop next-generation measurement solutions — while learning the fundamentals of semiconductor-class metrology tools and hard drive manufacturing processes. You will be part of a team advancing measurement science at the intersection of AI and precision manufacturing for the hard drive industry. Algorithm & Data Development Develop and apply data analysis algorithms and models to improve measurement accuracy and capability Use AI/ML techniques to extract insights from metrology images and measurement datasets Support development of new measurement methods in collaboration with senior engineers Automation & Workflow Write scripts and tools to automate data collection, processing, and reporting workflows Apply AI/ML techniques to optimize measurement workflows and maximize tool throughput Team Collaboration Work alongside experienced metrology specialists in CDSEM, AFM, and optical measurement Partner with wafer process and R&D engineers to understand measurement requirements and support DOE execution Participate in data reviews, technical meetings, and cross-functional project teams Day-to-Day Execution Support routine measurement tasks across multiple active projects Learn to operate and troubleshoot metrology tools under guidance of senior team members Document results, maintain data quality, and contribute to technical reports This role is part of WD's early career development program. WD's early career development program is ideal for individuals at the early stages of their professional career.  Participants receive foundational training through structured onboarding, mentorship, and a curated development curriculum. The responsibilities of this role are typically aligned with candidates who have approximately 0–2+ years of relevant professional experience, though candidates of all experience levels are encouraged to apply. Required: Currently pursuing or recently completed BS or MS degree in  Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, or a closely related field (recent graduate or graduating within 6 months) Programming proficiency in Python or LabVIEW; comfort working with real-world datasets Familiarity with machine learning or data analysis concepts (coursework, projects, or internship experience counts) Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to work with complex, noisy data Collaborative mindset and willingness to learn in a cross-functional team environment Preferred: Coursework or project experience in image processing, computer vision, or signal analysis Exposure to semiconductor, optics, or materials characterization topics What You Will Learn How magnetic recording heads are fabricated at the wafer level How to operate and interpret data from industry-leading metrology tools (CDSEM, AFM, optical) How to apply AI and modeling in a real manufacturing R&D environment How to translate engineering problems into measurement and data solutions What Success Looks Like (Year 1) Delivered at least one automated workflow or AI-driven analysis tool actively used by the team Demonstrated growing fluency with metrology data and tool concepts Established trusted working relationships with process and metrology engineers WD is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and ... (truncated, view full listing at source)