Sr Specialist - University Relations & Talent Acquisition

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:

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. 

About the Role

The Sr. Specialist – University Relations & Talent Acquisition is responsible for building and executing campus hiring strategies, managing end-to-end university engagement programs, and driving recruitment for early-career and lateral positions. This role serves as a strategic partner to business leaders, academic institutions, and internal HR teams to ensure a strong pipeline of talent aligned with organizational needs.

Key Responsibilities

University Relations & Campus Hiring

• Develop and execute annual university hiring strategy across targeted colleges and universities.
• Build strong relationships with campus placement officers, faculty, and student organizations.
• Organize and manage campus events such as career fairs, pre-placement talks, technical workshops, and hackathons.
• Oversee internship and graduate hiring programs, including assessments, interviews, offers, and onboarding.
• Drive employer branding initiatives to position the company as a preferred employer among students.

Talent Acquisition

• Partner with hiring managers to understand workforce planning and staffing needs.
• Utilize multiple sourcing channels (job boards, social media, employee referrals, networking, etc.) to attract top talent.
• Ensure high-quality candidate experience throughout the recruitment process.
• Maintain accurate and timely updates in ATS and recruitment dashboards.

Program Management

• Oversee internship programs, including performance tracking, engagement activities, and conversion to full-time roles.
• Develop and maintain campus performance data, hiring effectiveness, and ROI analysis.
• Support diversity hiring initiatives and campus-specific DEI programs.

Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate closely with HR Business Partners, Learning & Development, and business leaders to align talent needs.
• Serve as a point of contact for university administrators and internal leadership on campus hiring matters.
• Present data-driven insights and recommendations to leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience - 8–12 years
• Strong understanding of early talent programs, hiring trends, and campus engagement practices.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple events, timelines, and priorities.
• Proficiency in ATS tools and MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Skills

• Experience working in a global or matrix organization.
• Strong networking abilities with academic partners.
• Experience managing employer branding or campus marketing campaigns.
• Analytical mindset with ability to track metrics and deliver insights.

Additional Information

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Employee Type:

Travel:

Relocation Eligible:

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.