Shmuel Katz

About Shmuel Katz

I am a seasoned Algorithm System and Applications Development Engineer with Ph.D. and over 10 years of combined research and industry experience in the semiconductor and advanced engineering sectors. Recognized for my ability to translate first-principles physics and analytical modelling into robust, production-ready solutions, I have a verifiable history of resolving complex metrology challenges and improving system performance in high-volume manufacturing environments. Currently, I am an Algorithm Developer (Customer Support) at KLA, where I support customer fabs by diagnosing and resolving out-of-spec KLA overlay metrology tools behavior related to tools matching, precision, focus, and target acquisition performance. In this role, I own customer KLA related escalations end-to-end by analyzing process indicators, defining clear plans of action, coordinating cross-functional investigations, and closing the loop through validation and follow-up. I also conduct research, and develop new advanced algorithms, maintain applications, utilities, and enhancements that improve calibration robustness, recipe selection outcomes, tool tracking, and internal workflows, while aligning with product roadmaps and release readiness. In addition, I deliver technical training and presentations, develop documentation and BKMs, and support installation and qualification efforts to ensure repeatable, scalable solutions in the field.Colleagues describe me as a calm, driven, and highly reliable technical partner who combines deep analytical thinking with practical execution, performs well under pressure, and can be trusted to restore tool stability and customer confidence.I am always open to connecting with former colleagues, managers, and professionals working in semiconductor manufacturing, metrology, applications engineering, and applied R&D. Feel free to reach out if you would like to connect or exchange insights.Expertise: Develop Algorithms, nonlinear dynamics, analytical treatment, implementation of numerical procedures, apparatus design, CAD designing and finite element analysis.

Experience

1. Algorithm Developer (Customer Support)

   KLA

   Aug 2023 — Present · Hillsboro, OR, US

   Deliver expert on-site technical support within customer fabs by diagnosing and resolving out-of-spec platform conditions across matching, precision, focus, and target acquisition, while defining clear corrective action plans and executing closed-loop follow-ups.• Lead the ownership and development of applications, utilities, and algorithmic enhancements that strengthen tool calibration robustness, optimize recipe selection, improve tool performance, and streamline internal workflows.• Engineer customer-specific algorithms and utilities that address unique costumer requirements while remaining aligned with internal product roadmaps, release standards, and qualification readiness.• Collaborate daily with Applications, Systems, Software, and Service teams to drive cross-functional root-cause analyses and implement durable corrective actions.• Present concise technical briefings and training sessions to customer and internal stakeholders, while documenting methodologies, DOEs, results, and best-known methods for scalable deployment.• Demonstrate exceptional responsiveness and end-to-end ownership during escalations, including after-hours and weekend support, to restore fleet stability and reinforce customer confidence.

Education

• Technion - Israel Institute of Technology

  Master of Science (M.Sc.) , Mechanical Engineering - Constrained Elastica

  2009 — 2015

• Technion - Israel Institute of Technology

  Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), Mechanical Engineering

  2005 — 2009

• Technion - Israel Institute of Technology

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mechanical Engineering - Waves and nonlinear dynamics

  2016 — 2020