Principal RF MMIC Designer (Research)

Job Title

Principal RF MMIC Designer (Research)

Role Summary

Lead research and development of advanced RF/MMIC circuits and architectures within Qorvo's Advanced Research Group. The role combines theoretical research, design, fabrication access, prototype validation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams for defense, satellite, and next-generation wireless applications.

Publish and present research, contribute to technology roadmaps, and mentor junior engineers.

Experience Level

Senior-level (Principal). Typical experience expectations start at 7+ years for PhD-level candidates; higher experience required for lower degrees.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include research leadership, MMIC design and prototype validation, and cross-team collaboration:

• Lead RF/MMIC architecture and design research for GaN, GaAs, and silicon-based circuits.
• Design, simulate, layout, and characterize MMICs: power amplifiers, LNAs, phase shifters, switches, attenuators, multifunction circuits, and frontend modules.
• Perform detailed nonlinear modeling, 2.5D/3D EM co-simulation, and circuit optimization.
• Build and validate prototypes in microwave labs using S-parameter, noise, load-pull, and thermal measurements.
• Analyze data, present results to internal and external stakeholders, and document findings.
• Contribute to technology road-mapping, novel circuit architectures, heterogeneous integration concepts, and invention disclosures.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience:

• Proven experience designing III-V microwave/millimeter-wave RF/MMIC amplifiers, switches, phase shifters, attenuators, TDUs, hybrid multichip modules, or transmit/receive front-end modules.
• Experience with advanced III-V compound semiconductor technologies, especially GaN and GaAs, and RF silicon processes.
• Expert understanding of transistor device behavior and nonlinear circuit design.
• Advanced user of ADS or Microwave Office (MWO) nonlinear simulators.
• Experience with 2.5D/3D EM tools such as SONNET, Axiem, Momentum, or HFSS.
• Strong microwave measurement and calibration skills: S-parameters, power/efficiency, source/load-pull, noise figure, linearity, and intermodulation distortion.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Nice-to-have:

• SiGe and/or CMOS RFIC/MMIC analog and mixed-signal design experience.
• Published author in technical journals or conference presentations.
• Experience meeting customer technical needs and schedules.

Education Requirements

Specified combinations: BS in Electrical Engineering with ~12+ years' experience; MS in Electrical Engineering with ~9+ years; PhD in Electrical Engineering (RF/Microwave focus) with ~7+ years. Fields referenced: Electrical Engineering with RF/microwave emphasis.

About the Company

Company: Qorvo

Headquarters: Greensboro, NC, US

Qorvo supplies innovative semiconductor solutions that enhance connectivity and power for a variety of applications, including consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. With a focus on RF and power solutions, Qorvo combines technology leadership and global manufacturing to address complex challenges in fast-growing industries. Their commitment to excellence and innovation drives them to shape the future of wireless communications.