2026 Summer RF Engineering Intern - MS/PHD (Santa Clara, CA)

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

Intern – Etch Technology Group(Summer 2026)

Applied Materials – Etch Department

Applied Materials’ Etch Department is seeking a highly motivated intern to join the Etch Technology Group in Summer 2026. Our team focuses on deep understanding of reactive ion etch (RIE) technology and delivers innovative solutions to meet complex semiconductor processing challenges. We develop new hardware and diagnostic technologies—including novel biasing schemes, wide‑band filters, plasma sources, optical and electrical diagnostics—and support process and hardware development inside capacitively and inductively coupled plasma chambers.

This role offers hands-on experience in plasma physics, RF engineering, electronics, measurements, and next‑generation semiconductor manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical circuits for plasma chamber biasing and advanced etch applications
• Generate PCB Gerber files and build prototype circuits using breadboards, hand‑soldering, and machining
• Perform detailed electrical measurements using:
• Oscilloscopes
• Power supplies
• Function generators
• Additional RF/electrical test equipment
• Develop algorithms and perform scientific computing in Python, MATLAB, or equivalent languages
• Calibrate and operate optical diagnostics, including laser‑based systems
• Support development, execution, and analysis of plasma diagnostic techniques, such as:
• Langmuir probes
• Retarding field energy analyzers (RFEA)
• Gather experimental data, perform quantitative analysis, and clearly communicate results to the technical team
• Contribute to R&D projects involving RF power delivery, plasma processing, and vacuum‑related hardware
• Work closely with senior technical experts in a collaborative, small‑team environment
• Expand applied knowledge in physics, electromagnetism, electronics, plasma discharges, and semiconductor processes
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD/Doctorate in:
• Electrical Engineering
• Applied Physics or Physics
• Plasma Physics
• RF Engineering
• Or a related technical field
• Expected graduation date December 2026 or later
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
• Strong college‑level understanding of electromagnetism and electronic circuits
• Hands-on experience with:
• Oscilloscopes
• Laboratory electrical measurements
• R&D or engineering laboratory work (academic, work, or extracurricular)
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or other scientific programming languages
• Soldering and basic machining skills
• Self-motivated, quick learner, and able to work effectively in a team environment
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with RF power delivery or exposure to RF systems
• Background in plasma diagnostics (Langmuir probes, RFEA)
• Familiarity with semiconductor processing plasmas from coursework, research, or lab experience
• Knowledge of vacuum systems or mechanical engineering related to vacuum technology
• Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to present technical data clearly
• Experience in electronic circuit design or hardware development
  
  

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Intern / Student

Travel:

No

Relocation Eligible:

No

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.