Principal Engineer, Test Engineering
SemtechJob Title
Principal Engineer, Test Engineering
Role Summary
Senior technical leader responsible for architecting test solutions for mixed-signal products from early silicon validation through high-volume production. The role leads test strategy, drives DFT/testability into IC architecture, and delivers scalable test methodologies to meet quality, cost, and throughput targets within Semtech's Global Test Engineering organization.
Experience Level
Level: Senior. Requires extensive industry experience (typical guidance: 12+ years total in semiconductor test engineering, including senior technical leadership).
Responsibilities
Primary responsibilities include technical leadership across NPI and production, innovation in test methodology, and mentoring engineering teams.
- Define and architect test strategies for complex mixed-signal products from concept to production.
- Drive DFT and testability requirements into IC architecture and establish company-wide test standards.
- Lead test development for sensing and high-speed communication devices, including creation of reusable test IP and frameworks.
- Partner with IC design, product engineering, and quality teams to ensure test readiness and manufacturability.
- Evaluate and adopt ATE platforms and measurement techniques; pioneer AI/ML applications for yield and test optimization.
- Ensure successful transfer of test solutions to high-volume OSATs and monitor KPIs for test effectiveness and efficiency.
- Mentor junior engineers and maintain test methodology documentation and training materials.
Requirements
Must-have technical skills, experience, and attributes for immediate contribution.
- 12+ years progressive experience in semiconductor test engineering; 8+ years in mixed-signal test development.
- Proven experience leading NPI programs for high-speed communication ICs and delivering projects on aggressive schedules.
- Expert-level experience with Advantest V93000 platform (SmarTest 7/8).
- Advanced programming: C/C++, Python, TCL.
- Deep knowledge of high-speed signal integrity, jitter analysis, and BER testing.
- Expertise in analog/mixed-signal DFT techniques (BIST, scan, boundary scan) and test coverage strategies.
- Solid foundation in statistical process control and quality methodologies; experience defining test KPIs.
- Experience with PCB design tools and signal integrity simulation (e.g., Cadence, Altium).
- Strong cross-functional communication, vendor relationship skills, and ability to influence without direct authority.
Education Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field is required. Advanced degrees (Master's or PhD) in a relevant engineering discipline are preferred.
About the Company
Company: Semtech
Headquarters: Camarillo, California, USA
Semtech Corporation is a high-performance semiconductor company providing IoT systems and Cloud connectivity solutions. The company focuses on delivering innovative technology solutions that support a smarter, more connected, and sustainable planet, with a dedication to quality across infrastructure, industrial, and consumer markets.
