Design Characterization Engineer

ovt; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 111,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

ovt is seeking a Design Characterization Engineer to join our fast-paced R&D team in California. You will characterize and optimize CMOS image sensor performance, bring up silicon, and validate sensor functionality with design engineers.

You'll develop characterization methodologies, analyze pixel-level subsystems, and collaborate with analog/digital design teams to tune performance and improve yield and reliability. Strong data analysis in Python/MATLAB and hands-on lab testing are essential.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field required.
• Strong CMOS analog and mixed-signal/digital design background.
• Proficient in Python and MATLAB for data analysis and automation.
• Experience with lab testing using oscilloscopes and similar equipment.
• Strong communication and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Bring up new silicon and validate CMOS image sensor functionality with design engineers.
• Develop and refine characterization methodologies to evaluate sensor performance.
• Analyze pixel-level, analog and digital subsystems to identify limits and propose improvements.
• Collaborate with analog/digital design teams to tune parameters and resolve issues.
• Work cross-functionally with process, applications, production, and quality teams to transition designs into production.

Skills

CMOS analog design

Mixed-signal design

Digital design

Python

MATLAB

Lab data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Lab instrumentation

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled Design Characterization Engineer to join our fast‑paced, innovation‑driven R&D team. In this role, you will characterize and optimize CMOS image sensor performance, collaborate closely across engineering disciplines, and help deliver industry‑leading sensor products with exceptional quality.

Responsibilities:

• Bring up new silicon and validate CMOS image sensor functionality and performance in partnership with design engineers
• Develop and refine characterization methodologies to evaluate image sensor behavior and collect performance data
• Analyze pixel‑level, analog, and digital subsystems to identify fundamental performance limitations and propose technical improvements
• Collaborate with analog and digital design teams to tune performance parameters and resolve system‑level issues
• Work cross‑functionally with process, applications, production, and quality teams to transition new designs into production and resolve yield, reliability, and overall product quality issues

Requirements

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field
• Strong expertise in CMOS analog, mixed‑signal, and/or digital design, along with solid understanding of semiconductor device physics
• Proficiency with Python and/or MATLAB for data analysis and automation
• Experience or strong interest in hands‑on electrical testing using oscilloscopes and other lab instrumentation
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams

Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $110,600 - $140,000.
Actual pay will be determined on several factors such as relevant skills and experience,the pay of employees in the similar role etc.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability