Principal Applications Engineer

Principal Applications Engineer
FormFactor, Inc.
Beaverton, Oregon

We live in a mobile driven world where technology is constantly improving. Semiconductor manufacturer need a partner as they pioneer and drive the most advanced integrated circuits (ICs) ever made. FormFactor is the world's leading supplier of semiconductor test and measurement products used to test the ICs that power the majority of smart phones and tablets on the planet, as well as electronic systems used in computing, consumer, automotive, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other applications.

We are a big company with a small time feel. Working at FormFactor gives you the opportunity to work with cutting edge technology, have a direct influence on next generation products hitting the market and drive the overall growth and development of the semiconductor industry. We are a fast-paced, agile, growing company that values diversity of thought and constantly strives for a more diverse, inclusive environment. We are looking for enthusiastic, talented individuals who can thrive in a changing and challenging environment.

PURPOSE

FormFactor's RF Products group partners extensively with some of the world's foremost semiconductor manufacturers to solve their most complex test and validation challenges. Our technologies are key to the wireless and high-speed communication markets, enabling production of 5G and mmWave modems, ultra-high speed I/O, and a wide range of other technologies in the RF and high frequency spaces up to and beyond 60 GHz. Chances are if you own a cell phone, the team in Beaverton designed the test solutions for the modems.
We are looking for a mid-level to senior advanced applications engineer who enjoys solving challenging problems to join our team.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty

• Be a core member of the Advanced Applications team to resolve vexing customer measurement challenges.
• Solid ability to understand and analyze product requirements and to translate these into engineering requirements and deliverables.
• Measure and verify new products meet design parameters.
• Identify and resolve irregularities in RF device performance using a mix of data analysis, first principles analysis, and experimentation.
• Utilize advanced simulation and design tools to design virtual products and support transition to physical prototypes.
• Collaborate with our internal engineering, design, advanced applications, and manufacturing teams to resolve technical, manufacturing, measurement, and product application challenges.
• Collaborate with our internal quality department to support quality assessments and customer responses.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• BS, MS, or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3-6 years of experience in electrical engineering, most of which with direct experience in RF and semiconductor test.
• Extensive RF background with a focus on high frequency (4-90 GHz) applications.
• Direct experience with electronics lab equipment and procedures (VNAs, calibration methods, ...) and/or semiconductor testers (Advantest, Teradyne).
• Basic understanding of RF characterization (S-parameters, TDRs, dielectrics, ...) OR the relevant background to ramp up quickly.
• Experience interfacing with and working with customers and stakeholders.
• Experience with quality management processes (8D or similar).
• Desired: fundamental understanding of cellphone front ends and related components (PAs, LNAs, filters), and digital high-speed components and technologies (TIAs, PAM4, SerDecs).
• Desired: Familiarity with various RF calibration techniques (SOL, SOLR, SOLT, multiline TRL)
• Typical Software: MatLab, HFSS, ADS. Python or the ability to develop basic scripts would be beneficial.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 15%

The pay range for this role in Beaverton, Oregon is between $94,100 and $123,480. The pay range may differ in other locations. FormFactor maintains broad salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in education, training, skills, relevant work experience, business needs and market demands. Candidates are typically placed into the range based on the preceding factors as well as internal peer equity. Benefits offered for this role include medical, dental, vision, EAP, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, flexible spending and savings accounts, 401(k), ESPP and paid time off.

FormFactor is committed to providing a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and are committed to compliance with all Federal, State, and local laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, sex (including breastfeeding and related conditions), gender (including gender identity and gender expression), national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, registered domestic partner status, medical condition, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics or information, or any other legally protected characteristic. These protections extend to all employment and management decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations, and all other terms and conditions of employment.

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