25 years of providing Test and Validation jobs
18/10/2023
25 years of providing test development and validation jobs
For two and a half decades, IC Resources has been providing test development and validation jobs in the semiconductor industry. We’ve worked with engineers and human resources departments to help ensure the right matches between those looking for roles and organisations with vacancies.
The area of semiconductor design and production is highly specialised and our experience in the industry sets us apart. IC Resources covers all areas of semiconductor test and validation recruitment, ensuring companies have the skills to innovate and produce innovative, next-generation products.
What is testing and validation?
Testing and validation is needed at all stages of the semiconductor journey, from design and manufacturing to assembly and packaging. It’s vital that any faulty circuits are identified early in the process, so that only working chips continue through the stages to delivery.
Qualified test and validation engineers are crucial to ensuring results. Key responsibilities for test and validation engineers include: carrying out validation on new products; performing bench-level evaluation and testing; developing automated tests; and generating validation reports.
What are the key competencies for test and validation jobs?
Among the key competencies for a test and validation engineer include:
- Experience in the validation of high-speed components
- A background in optical/RF measurements
- Ability to use VB.net/C#/Python
- Knowledge of high speed PCB design
- Responsive to working in a dynamic R&D environment
What are the key challenges in test and validation jobs?
Semiconductor validation labs are a high pressure environment where small changes can make a huge difference to the outcome of the product. Engineers will be expected to optimise labs for improved project costs and timelines, keeping up with best practice and ever-changing trends in the industry.
What are the advanced roles in test and validation jobs?
Job descriptions will vary among similar roles, but some of the most highly sought after test and validation jobs include:
Test development engineer
The main responsibilities of a test development engineer are to run quality assurance tests and ensure a product meets industry standards. Analysing the efficiency and functionality of the product also comes under the remit of this job role.
Characterization engineer
A characterization engineer is expected to develop new characterisation and analysis techniques to enhance device performance. They work closely with the processing and epitaxy teams to create and implement new characterisation techniques. Building collaborative relationships both internally and externally to support research initiatives is also a core responsibility.
Validation engineer
Validation engineers’ jobs are to ensure the compliance of a product with respect to its specifications. In the field of embedded systems, they validate electronic systems and subsystems, such as IP, component and electronic board or software like drivers.
Evaluation engineer
Companies involved in manufacturing employ evaluation engineers to improve the development of products. They document production processes and conduct tests to ensure the resulting products meet the demands of quality standards and customer expectations.
Application engineer
This job role means engineering hardware components that optimise certain technologies and providing technical support and expertise to clients. Other tasks include testing applications, maintaining hardware, responding to customers and leading demonstrations.
What are the industry standards for test and validation jobs?
Employers are looking for candidates that are capable of working with standards, test specifications and ensuring the device under test (DUT) meets the specifications. There are a number of ways of proving this and knowledge of popular protocols, ability to use automation tools and equipment should be highlighted.
What are the educational requirements for test and validation jobs?
Job descriptions for test engineer and validation specialist roles will outline any specific requirements, but a degree in electronics is usually the starting point. Most recruiters also look for a background in the semiconductor industry and experience in the validation field, as well as with lab test and measurement equipment.
What are the common requirements for different test and validation jobs?
- Test automation and development
- Systems development and control
- Hardware testing
- Create and manage documentation
- Research, develop and improve test methodologies
- A degree in engineering
- Experience with MATLAB/Python/C#/C++/
- A degree in electronics (ideally 100/110 grade)
- Good knowledge of AC/DC and DC/DC converters and inverters
- An understanding of EMC safety standards
- Experience with electronics testing
- Testing and measurement of components and subsystems
- Maintain and develop ATE systems
- Test automation
- Analyse, document and present test results
- Experience with RF testing
- Experience with relevant RF lab testing equipment
- Good knowledge of Python
- Knowledge of RF architecture (ideally receiver and transceiver) and radio standards (ideally WiFi/LTE)
- Knowledge of RF performance parameters
Why choose IC Resources as your test and validation recruitment partner?
Using a recruitment agency makes sense for both candidates and companies, but one that has 25 years of experience in the semiconductor market gives an added level of expertise. What’s more, the IC Resources team has been recruited from the industry, offering invaluable insight for jobseekers and recruiters.
Preparing for test and validation job interviews
From a candidate’s point of view, our experience can help identify a great opportunity and match you to a role that suits your skills and areas of interest. We can offer CV advice and craft a profile that summarises your professional credentials, as well as preparing you for a test and validation job interview.
As a semiconductor firm looking for talent to fill vacancies, you’ll have the benefit of IC Resources’ networks and relationships across the sector. As well as appropriate qualifications and experience, we match candidates with potential employers who we believe will fit the company culture.
Negotiating salaries
Salary negotiation is an integral part of the recruitment process and an area that IC Resources can handle for the mutual benefit of both parties. Taking experience, certifications, competition from other firms and benefits packages into account, candidates can be assured they’re being paid their market value.
