Staff Hardware Engineer

Description

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 Staff Hardware Engineer to join our Test Product Engineering Department. This role focuses on ATE hardware development, probe card/Loadboard design, and production test hardware bring-up to support new product introduction (NPI) and high-volume manufacturing for ASIC products. The ideal candidate will work closely with Test Development Engineering (TDE), Product Engineering, HW vendors and OSAT partners to ensure robust hardware solutions, efficient debug infrastructure, and continuous yield improvement.This position reports to the Sr. Manager, Test Development Engineering.

Responsibilities & Competencies

Job Duties

• Develop and support ATE hardware solutions including load boards and probe cards for wafer sort and final test using platforms such as Teradyne UltraFLEX, J750, and PS1600
• Lead probe card design and optimization (MLO, fine-pitch, multi-site) to meet performance, yield, and cost targets
• Work with TDE on hardware bring-up, validation, and debug during NPI and production ramp
• Collaborate with TDE to set up debug environments, enable efficient issue reproduction, and collect/structure debug data
• Perform signal integrity (SI), power integrity (PI), and high-speed routing analysis to ensure test hardware performance
• Support yield improvement activities by identifying hardware-related issues and implementing corrective actions
• Manage and collaborate with hardware vendors, including design reviews, qualification, and performance tracking
• Drive cost optimization initiatives through multi-site scaling, hardware reuse, and vendor alignment
• Support OSAT and internal teams on hardware-related production issues and continuous improvement
  
  

Competencies

• Strong understanding of ATE hardware architecture and semiconductor test flow (wafer sort + final test)
• Solid knowledge of signal integrity, power delivery, and high-speed design considerations
• Hands-on debugging skills with ability to quickly isolate hardware vs. test vs. silicon issues
• Proactive, self-driven, and able to work in a fast-paced NPI and production environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision making
• Effective communication skills and ability to work across cross-functional and global teams
• Detail-oriented with strong ownership and execution mindset
  
  

Qualifications (Requirements)

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field or equivalent
• 8+ yearsof experience in ATE hardware development or probe card design
• Strong experience with Teradyne UltraFLEX / J750 / Advantest PS1600 platforms
• Hands-on experience with:
• Load board and probe card development
• SI/PI analysis and high-speed design/debug
• Multi-site optimization
• Experience in RF or high-speed product testingis preferred
• Experience in yield improvement and hardware debug in production environment
• Experience working with OSAT and hardware vendors
• Ability to travel internationally (~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.