Synaptics is leading the charge in AI at the Edge, bringing AI closer to end users and transforming how we engage with intelligent connected devices, whether at home, at work, or on the move. As the go-to partner for the world’s most forward-thinking product innovators, Synaptics powers the future with its cutting-edge Synaptics Astra™ AI-Native embedded compute, Veros™ wireless connectivity, and multimodal sensing solutions. We’re making the digital experience smarter, faster, more intuitive, secure, and seamless. From touch, display, and biometrics to AI-driven wireless connectivity, video, vision, audio, speech, and security processing, Synaptics is the force behind the next generation of technology enhancing how we live, work, and play.
Overview
Synaptics is looking for a Sr. Staff Hardware Engineer, ATE to join our growing organization. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and validating automated test hardware solutions, translating test requirements into robust electrical and mechanical designs. This position reports to the Director, Systems Hardware.
The typical base pay range for this position is USD $140,000- $221,100 per year. Individual pay is determined by many factors including work location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. This position is also eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus, equity, and other benefits. Note that compensation listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.
Responsibilities & Competencies
Job Duties
- Technically lead the design, development, and validation of hardware for ATE systems including tester resources, load boards, interface boards, pin electronics, power delivery, analog instrumentation, and high-speed signal paths
- Translate product requirements and test requirements into specifications for circuit schematics, PCB layouts, and interconnect designs
- Understanding schematic capture, layout, component selection, and design reviews using tools such as Cadence, or OrCAD
- Optimize PCB designs for RF design, signal integrity, power distribution, crosstalk, impedance control, and EMI/EMC compliance
- Collaborate with mechanical engineers to design mechanical fixtures and enclosures compatible with ATE systems
- Generate and maintain documentation: schematics, BOMs, test plans, assembly drawings, and revision histories
- Work with suppliers and contract manufacturers on PCB fabrication, component sourcing, and assembly builds
- Work with Product and Test Development teams to define ATE hardware requirements, test strategy, and coverage
- Drive improvements in test infrastructure, hardware reuse, debug efficiency, and methodology
- Coordinate cross-functional teams to timely resolve issues in hardware, test, correlation, and production
- Partner with BU design engineers to improve bench-to-ATE correlation and test coverage
- Own multiple concurrent projects and deliverables
- Drive continuous improvement of test hardware standards, processes, and design libraries
Competencies
- Strong knowledge of ATE test equipment, Teradyne, Advantest
- Deep understanding of environmental testing, stress test, and high temperature / burn-in systems
- Ability to read and write test specifications, hardware requirements, test plans, and documentation
- Strong understanding of signal integrity, EMI/EMC, grounding, power integrity, noise mitigation
- Proficiency in schematic capture and PCB design tools (e.g. Altium, Cadence, Mentor, OrCAD)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
- Demonstrated ability to use data to improve processes and evaluate design options
- Ability to work with dynamic, geographically distributed teams, with the passion to become part of cross-functional teams as necessary to ensure testability
- Well organized with strong attention to detail; able to balance multiple projects/products under aggressive project schedules in a dynamic environment
- Proactive, self-starter able to work independently in a fast-paced environment to complete projects on time
- Positive attitude and work ethic; unafraid to ask questions and explore new ideas
- Resourceful and able to solve complex problems through adaptation of existing technology and investigation of new technology to resolve complex problems
- Excellent verbal and written communication, including the ability to communicate complex interactive design concepts clearly
Qualifications (Requirements)
- Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Telecommunication, or Computer-Science or related field or equivalent
- 12+ years of experience in hardware development for test systems / ATE / test fixtures
- Demonstrated experience with RF, analog, mixed-signal, digital circuits, signal conditioning, switching, and instrumentation
- Deep experience with high-speed digital or RF test (e.g. >1 GHz, SerDes, high-speed PHYs)
- Hands-on debugging skills using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, network analyzers, source measure units, etc
- Strong experience in interfacing with DUTs (device under test), connectors, sockets, relays, cabling, and mechanical constraints
- Experience in manufacturing / production test environments
- Prior experience in semiconductor, communication, or data center industries
- Travel up to 10%
Belief in Diversity
Synaptics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, or genetic information.