Principal Test Engineer

Job Title

Principal Test Engineer

Role Summary

The Principal Test Engineer leads evaluation, development, and deployment of semiconductor test technologies across global manufacturing sites. This role provides technical leadership for external manufacturing test releases, test strategy, supplier engagements, and equipment qualification.

Works with global engineering, manufacturing sites, suppliers, and technology partners to introduce and qualify test solutions that improve quality, efficiency, and long-term manufacturing competitiveness.

Experience Level

Senior — minimum of 10 years' experience in the semiconductor industry in Test Engineering or related test support functions.

Responsibilities

Principal responsibilities include technology scouting, project leadership, supplier management, and test equipment qualification.

• Research, evaluate, and benchmark new semiconductor test technologies and equipment.
• Lead Test Technology R&D projects from feasibility to implementation.
• Develop test strategies for wafer test and final test; manage process releases with subcontractors.
• Evaluate RFQ proposals and perform technical comparative analysis for subcontractors.
• Coordinate cross-functional projects with Business Groups, Product Engineering, Package R&D, Manufacturing, and Technology & Operations.
• Configure and ensure test data connectivity for new subcontractors or production lines per Nexperia standards.
• Oversee approval, installation, and qualification of consigned equipment.
• Organize global SME forums, deliver technical training, and represent the company at industry events and supplier forums.

Requirements

Must-have technical and leadership skills required to execute the responsibilities below.

• Minimum 10 years' experience in semiconductor test engineering or related test support functions (Test Equipment Engineering, Wafer Probe, Test Process Engineering, Test AOI, Product Engineering).
• Deep knowledge of semiconductor test methodologies, test processes, and production test environments.
• Hands-on experience with Automated Test Equipment (ATE) and semiconductor test handlers.
• Proven technical project leadership delivering cross-functional initiatives from concept to implementation.
• Ability to evaluate, qualify, and implement new test technologies and solutions; manage supplier/contractor technical engagements.
• Experience configuring test data connectivity and integrating test systems with manufacturing infrastructure.
• Strong communication, stakeholder influencing, and global collaboration skills in English.
• Nice to have: experience with data analytics tools (Spotfire, JMP, Minitab, SAS), Industry 4.0 or test automation initiatives, and multi-site deployments.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electronics, Mechanical, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline is required. The role expects extensive semiconductor test experience (minimum 10 years) in lieu of advanced academic qualifications; no specific certifications were listed.

About the Company

Company: Nexperia

Headquarters: Cabuyao, Philippines

Nexperia is a global leader in semiconductor development with a focus on in-house production. The company boasts a strong international network and is dedicated to innovation and excellence in the semiconductor industry, providing a dynamic environment for its employees.