At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative test solutions for high-speed mixed-signal and RF products.
- Company: Join Semtech, a leader in semiconductor technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on continuous learning and career growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact on next-gen communication tech while driving test innovation.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in semiconductor test engineering with expertise in mixed-signal/RF.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol, UK
Team Overview: Semtech's Global Test Engineering team is a world‑class organization of innovative engineers who enable the success of our entire semiconductor portfolio through cutting‑edge test solutions and methodologies. We are the technical backbone that ensures every Semtech product meets the highest standards of quality, reliability, and performance. Our team spans multiple sites globally and serves as the center of excellence for test innovation, working closely with all business units to deliver breakthrough test capabilities. We specialize in mixed‑signal, high‑speed digital, and RF test development, with particular expertise in advanced SiGe BiCMOS technologies. Our engineers drive competitive advantage through innovative test architectures, methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives that directly impact Semtech's bottom line.
Job Summary: We are seeking a Senior NPI Test Engineer to serve as the technical authority for new product introduction test development in our mixed‑signal and RF product portfolio. This role demands a proven innovator who can architect comprehensive test solutions spanning from early silicon validation through high‑volume production. The ideal candidate will drive testability standards across the organization, lead complex multi‑disciplinary projects, and deliver breakthrough test methodologies that enable next‑generation high‑speed communication products operating at 200Gbps and beyond.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Technical Leadership & Architecture (60%)
- Architect and define test strategies for complex mixed‑signal / RF SiGe products from concept through production maturity
- Lead development of innovative test methodologies for high‑speed SerDes, CDRs, and signal conditioning products
- Drive DFT/testability requirements into IC architecture, establishing company‑wide standards and best practices
- Develop and implement advanced test techniques for products operating at >200Gbps data rates
- Create reusable test IP, libraries, and frameworks that accelerate NPI cycles across product families
- Perform technical risk assessment and mitigation strategies for test coverage and quality
- Cross‑functional NPI Support (30%)
- Serve as test engineering authority in product architecture reviews and gate meetings
- Partner with IC design teams from concept phase to ensure optimal test coverage and manufacturability
- Lead test readiness reviews with stakeholders, providing strategic recommendations
- Collaborate with Product Engineering to define characterization strategies and correlation methodologies
- Interface with customer quality teams on test specifications and coverage requirements
- Architect and launch test solutions that achieve test time targets for complex mixed‑signal / RF devices
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives that reduce NPI cycle time by 10‑20%
- Production Excellence & Scale (10%)
- Ensure seamless transfer of test solutions to high‑volume OSATs with >99% first‑pass success
- Drive test cost reduction initiatives delivering year‑over‑year improvements
- Establish and monitor KPIs for test effectiveness, efficiency, and quality
- Mentorship & Knowledge Management (10%)
- Mentor junior engineers, developing next generation of test engineer contributors
- Create and maintain comprehensive test methodology documentation and training materials
- Build strategic relationships with test partners to influence platform development
- Foster culture of innovation and continuous learning within test organization
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
- 8+ years of progressive experience in semiconductor test engineering
- 4+ years specifically in mixed‑signal/RF test development
- Proven track record leading NPI programs for high‑speed communication ICs
Technical Expertise:
- Expert‑level proficiency with Advantest V93000 platform (SmarTest 7/8)
- Advanced programming skills in C/C++, Python, and TCL
- Deep understanding of high‑speed signal integrity, jitter analysis, and BER testing
- Expertise in analog/mixed‑signal DFT techniques (BIST, scan, boundary scan)
- Proficiency in RF/microwave test techniques beyond 40GHz
- Strong foundation in statistical process control and quality methodologies
- Experience with PCB design tools (Cadence, Altium) and signal integrity simulation
Leadership & Business Acumen:
- Demonstrated ability to influence without direct authority across organizations
- Track record of delivering complex projects on aggressive schedules
- Strong presentation skills to executive leadership and customers
- Proven ability to build and maintain strategic vendor relationships
Desired Qualifications:
- Master's degree or PhD in relevant engineering discipline
- 8+ years in semiconductor test with focus on SerDes/high‑speed I/O
- Experience with SiGe BiCMOS process technology and its test challenges
- Knowledge of automotive quality standards (AEC‑Q100) and qualification flows
- Familiarity with 93000 PS1600/PS5000 digital channels and Wave Scale RF
- Experience with wafer‑level testing and probe card design
- Experience with test data analytics and machine learning applications
Unique Differentiators For This Role:
- Serves as company‑wide test architecture authority for mixed‑signal / RF products
- Builds test capabilities that enable entry into new markets and applications
- Establishes Semtech's reputation as test innovation leader in high‑speed communications
All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Senior NPI Test Engineer employer: Semtech
At Semtech, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of Stansted Mountfitchet. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages professional development. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and provides a rewarding career path in a fast-paced commercial setting.
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We think this is how you could land Senior NPI Test Engineer
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior NPI Test Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
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Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Semtech a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Semtech specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Semtech
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Semtech, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Semtech want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
