Beginners only: How a fresh grad started their engineering career at ASML
Mechatronics engineer Naveen shares how he landed at ASML fresh out of college and his exciting career journey, working at the heart of tech innovation.
Working for a semiconductor industry leader can seem daunting, especially for a new graduate. Is my degree suitable? Will the work environment be good? Will it help me develop my career? The stress is real for fresh graduates and at ASML we know that all too well. It’s the reason we host multiple student events every year, offer scholarships and work-study programs, next to masterclasses and opportunities for young professionals. Our colleague Naveen Venugopalan, a Design Engineer, was in the same position a few years ago, and he explains exactly how he figured it all out, with support from ASML.
Discovering ASML
“After completing my bachelor’s in Electrical & Electronics engineering in India I chose to pursue my master’s in Systems & Control at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). During the first week of my masters, we had the chance to visit different companies as part of the orientation and I chose ASML.”
Naveen experienced ASML first-hand and was impressed by the complicated technology and innovative lithography machines. “After the visit, I was floored and certain that I wanted to work here someday. To me, ASML seemed like the company that could make use of the skills I’ve obtained through my master’s and help me reach my maximum potential.”
“Beyond being one of the most technologically advanced companies in the world, ASML uses the latest technology in all fields, especially in Systems & Control.”
After seeing a job opening at ASML through LinkedIn, Naveen decided to take his shot and apply. “It was for a Technical Graduate Program in Mechatronics, meant for new graduates.”
After a couple of engaging interviews, as Naveen describes them, he was offered to start directly as a Design Engineer, instead of going through the graduate program.
Making an Impact
ASML is a large organization with over 40.000 colleagues globally. To ensure harmonious working ASML’s teams and departments work together to form an innovation hub, Naveen says.
“Depending on the group or project, I experienced either a well-established mature setup or a rapid innovation ecosystem with a bit of an ad-hoc workstyle. It is the same exciting dynamic environment you see at start-ups, that I see in the teams I work with.
At ASML, you’re never bored, because “the machines we make here work with nanometre accuracy and that intrigues me to this day. Working on multiple projects where you communicate with different teams and stakeholders allows you to gain knowledge in many different domains. Though you are divided into several groups and teams, you are certainly connected at work towards a common goal.”
Working and developing
Naveen also explains that ASML’s onboarding program also greatly helped him navigate his first months as a working professional. “You are assigned a buddy for the first 3 months, to help you get acquainted with the team and its way of working.”
“Moreover, both your team and your managers support you in making an impact at work. Even when you’re new, you’re not going to sit idly in your first months. You’re assigned projects, you attend meetings, and you’re exposed to all kinds of tech challenges, but are also always welcome to speak up and offer input.”
He explains that there is also room for your personal development. “Generally, you have a course list meant to improve your soft and technical skills. Moreover, along with your manager you’ll often set new career goals and even create a tailored course list that may help you advance your career.”
“There are also internal mobility events and career opportunities within ASML. With support from my managers, I got the opportunity to transfer to a new team. These transfers stimulate communication and cooperation among teams and are a nice way to exchange knowledge.”
Feeling at home
Being an expat and working for a big company has it’s struggles, but Naveen says that ASML has offered him a friendly and easy-going environment. “Everyone is approachable, and willing to share information. Knowledge sharing within and across teams is very appreciated.”
“We all stick to our values of Challenge, Collaborate and Care. You’re given space to grow and shine. Even if you’re not very well connected to a topic or a discussion, your opinions are equally valued. Inclusion is a core objective at ASML and speaking up is promoted. Whether it’s a random idea during a group brainstorm or a technical discussion or a safety and well-being concern, you’re always acknowledged and respected when you speak up,” Naveen concludes.
ASML
ASML is a high-tech company, headquartered in the Netherlands. We manufacture the complex lithography machines that chipmakers use to produce integrated circuits, or computer chips. In almost 40 years, we have grown from a small start-up into a multinational company with over 60 locations in 16 countries and regions, more than 40,000 people of 143 nationalities, and annual net sales of €21.2 billion in 2023.
Behind ASML’s innovations are engineers who think ahead. Our researchers, engineers, and manufacturing specialists, as well as our high-tech hardware and software, all work at the edge of what’s possible. That’s why our customers include all the world’s leading chipmakers.
Because ASML spends €3.3 billion per year on R&D, our teams have the freedom, support, and resources to experiment, test and push the boundaries of technology. They work in close-knit, multidisciplinary teams, listening to and learning from each other.
If you are passionate about technology and want to be a part of progress, visit www.asml.com/careers.
Curious to learn how you can be a part of progress? Contact our campus promoter Mette Weisfelt at your university at mette@workingatasml.com with all of your questions about ASML or visit www.asml.com/students.
