RF Test Engineer

Octric Semiconductors Ltd; Newton Aycliffe; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Octric Semiconductors Ltd in Newton Aycliffe is seeking an experienced RF Test Engineer to join our engineering team, supporting wafer‑level semiconductor testing across RF and DC environments.

You will maintain and develop high‑performing test systems, introduce new products into production, analyse test data and drive continuous improvement of our test capability. This role requires a proactive, hands‑on approach and strong collaboration with Product Engineering and Production teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in semiconductor device testing and volume semiconductor test engineering.
• Good programming background in LabVIEW, C++, C#, .NET, VB.
• Experience with RF/microwave test equipment such as VNAs, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes and signal generators.
• Experience developing or supporting DC and/or RF semiconductor test systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and data-analysis skills.
• HND/Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and in project teams.

Responsibilities

• Own and maintain RF and DC wafer-level test systems, ensuring reliable production performance.
• Define and implement RF test methodologies, including S-Parameters, Noise Figure, Golden Wafer and Gauge R&R.
• Support new product introduction with Product Engineering and Production teams to establish test capability.
• Develop and optimise test hardware, software, algorithms and systems, including LabVIEW applications.
• Specify, procure and commission probe cards and test equipment.
• Analyse test data and produce wafer maps, SPC, correlation and product performance reports.
• Diagnose and resolve production test issues and support Test Technicians and Operators.
• Carry out semiconductor device characterisation, evaluation and diagnostic testing.
• Develop and maintain test software, procedures, instructions and equipment records.
• Provide training and technical support to production colleagues.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, efficiency and safe working.

Skills

LabVIEW

C++

C#

.NET

VB

Education

HND/Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Tools

VNAs

Spectrum Analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Signal Generators

Job description

Octric Semiconductor is a new name in the compound semiconductor foundry space. Its devices are used in mission‑critical defence and commercial applications.

For over 25 years, we have delivered more than 1.5 billion devices shipped from our site to date.

Octric has ambitious plans to grow the company and expand with new products and applications, supported by a 10‑year investment plan. Following significant investment from the UK Ministry of Defence, we now have a bright new path ahead. As part of an emerging semiconductor cluster in the northeast, we are focused on developing advanced technology for the next generation of semiconductors. We are looking to fill a number of exciting roles across device design, innovation, manufacturing, and reliability.

Located in Newton Aycliffe, UK, we occupy a 10,000 m² purpose‑built Class 100 manufacturing facility fully equipped to produce state‑of‑the‑art compound semiconductor products.

Octric is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Our company values different perspectives and experiences, and we're dedicated to creating an environment where all employees can thrive. We have family‑friendly employee policies, a culture that respects work‑life balance, and a competitive benefits package. We are committed to personal and professional progression and development.

Be part of our journey and join our team driving innovation in a cutting‑edge industry.

We’re looking for an experienced RF Test Engineer to join our engineering team, supporting wafer-level semiconductor testing across both RF and DC environments.

You’ll play a key role in maintaining and developing high-performing test systems, introducing new products into production, analysing test data and driving continuous improvement across our test capability.

Summary Of Responsibilities

• Own and maintain RF and DC wafer-level test systems, ensuring reliable, accurate and repeatable production performance.
• Define and implement RF test methodologies, including S-Parameters, Noise Figure, Golden Wafer and Gauge R&R.
• Support new product introduction, working closely with Product Engineering and Production teams to establish test capability.
• Develop and optimise test hardware, software, algorithms and systems, including LabVIEW developed applications.
• Specify, procure and commission probe cards and test equipment.
• Analyse test data and produce wafer maps, SPC, correlation and product performance reports.
• Diagnose and resolve production test issues and support Test Technicians and Operators.
• Carry out semiconductor device characterisation, evaluation and diagnostic testing.
• Develop and maintain test software, procedures, instructions and equipment records.
• Provide training and technical support to production colleagues.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, efficiency and safe working.

Experience

• Experience in semiconductor device testing and volume semiconductor test engineering.
• Good programming background, i.e. LabVIEW, C++, C#, .NET, VB etc.
• Experience with RF/microwave test equipment, including VNAs, spectrum analysers,oscilloscopes and signal generators.
• Experience developing or supporting DC and/or RF semiconductor test systems.
• Good analytical, problem-solving and data-analysis skills, including SPC/statistical techniques.
• HND/Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a project team.
• A proactive, results-focused approach and willingness to support colleagues through training and knowledge sharing.

Desirable

• Experience selecting and commissioning test equipment.
• LabVIEW programming experience.
• Experience in supervising staff.

Security And Other Requirements

The successful candidate must be eligible to achieve full UK SC security clearance and may also need to meet UK Eyes Only and ITAR requirements.

Flexibility may be required to support business needs, including occasional work outside standard office hours.

We’re looking for someone who combines strong RF/test engineering expertise with a practical, hands‑on approach and a passion for improving semiconductor wafer test capability.