Principal SoC Chip Lead

Job Title

Principal SoC Chip Lead

Role Summary

Lead technical execution and cross-functional coordination for end-to-end SoC programs from project definition through tape-out and post-silicon support. Work with architecture, RTL, verification, implementation, validation, and system teams to deliver high-quality silicon on schedule.

Position interfaces with product, system engineering, NPI, PMO and BU management to manage risks, resources and program milestones.

Experience Level

Senior-level. Typical background: 6+ years in the semiconductor industry with demonstrated SoC program leadership.

Responsibilities

Accountable for technical delivery, schedule, and cross-functional alignment for assigned SoC projects.

• Own SoC program execution from definition through tape-out and post-silicon support.
• Provide technical leadership across architecture, RTL, integration, verification, implementation, validation, and system teams.
• Coordinate and align cross-functional teams (DFT, Emulation, Physical Design, AMS, IP, verification) and resolve technical dependencies.
• Develop and maintain execution plans with PMO/SoC PM; monitor schedule, resources, critical paths, and risks.
• Drive risk mitigation and recovery actions when milestones are at risk.
• Manage stakeholder communication on technical readiness, risks, and mitigation during milestone reviews.
• Own tape-out readiness, signoff closure, and coordinate post-silicon validation and debug activities.

Requirements

Must-have technical and leadership qualifications for the role.

• 6+ years of semiconductor industry experience.
• Proven experience in SoC development covering architecture through tape-out.
• Strong knowledge of SoC development flows: Architecture, RTL design, integration, verification, DFT, emulation, physical design, and silicon validation.
• Experience leading large cross-functional engineering teams and influencing technical direction in a matrix organization.
• Strong project execution, planning, risk management, and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making capabilities.
• Nice-to-have: prior roles such as Chip Lead, SoC Technical Lead, Chief Engineer, or Project Technical Leader.
• Nice-to-have: experience with automotive, industrial, or safety-critical products and multi-site global development.
• Nice-to-have: track record of multiple SoC tape-outs and successful post-silicon product ramps.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Microelectronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.

About the Company

Company: NXP Semiconductors

Headquarters: Nijmegen, Netherlands

NXP Semiconductors N.V. is a global semiconductor company that provides High Performance Mixed Signal and Standard Product solutions. With over 45,000 employees and operations in more than 35 countries, NXP is a leader in secure connectivity solutions for embedded applications, catering to automotive, industrial IoT, mobile, and communication infrastructure markets. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, advancing a smarter, safer, and more sustainable world through technology.