Sr. Director, AI Audio

Synaptics Incorporated; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 249,000 - 393,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity

Benefits

Job summary

Synaptics Incorporated is seeking a Senior Director of AI Audio in Irvine to shape the future of audio technology for Edge AI processors. You will define roadmaps, lead DSP and AI software, and drive innovation across MCU/MPU platforms while coordinating with cross-functional teams.

The role requires 15+ years in audio AI, 7+ years in leadership, and a track record of delivering high-quality products in a fast-paced semiconductor environment. Travel up to 10% may be required.

Qualifications

• 15+ years’ experience in audio with a focus on AI for multi-mic processing.
• 7+ years leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related field.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Define the AI audio technology roadmap and architecture across MCU and MPU platforms.
• Lead development of audio DSP, AI models, and embedded software.
• Drive in-house innovation, IP strategy, and licensing decisions.
• Own end-to-end system integration, validation, characterization, and production readiness.
• Establish scalable validation methodologies and performance benchmarks.
• Lead customer engagements and solve complex technical challenges.

Skills

Audio DSP

AI algorithms

Leadership

Cross-functional teams

System architecture

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher

Tools

Linux

RTOS

Embedded software

Job description

Location: Irvine, CA, United States
Date Posted: Oct 21, 2026

Overview

Synaptics is actively seeking a Senior Director, AI Audio to shape the future of audio technology for Astra Edge-AI processors. The Edge Compute and Connectivity Division at Synaptics is developing high-performance Linux processors (MPU) as well as high-performance microcontrollers (MCU) that are built with AI from the ground up. The role requires broad knowledge around processors, AI-compute, audio technology, software (Linux, RTOS, applications), on-device security, and power management. This position reports to the VP of Technology and Innovation at Synaptics.

The typical base pay range for this position is USD $249,000 - $392,700 per year. Individual pay is determined by many factors including work location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. This position is also eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus, equity, and other benefits. Note that compensation listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits.

Job Duties

• Define the AI audio technology roadmap and architecture, and strategy across MCU and MPU platforms
• Lead development of audio DSP, AI models, and embedded software, and production-ready audio solutions
• Drive in-house innovation, third-party technology evaluation, IP strategy, and licensing decisions
• Own end-to-end system integration, validation, characterization, optimization, and production readiness
• Establish scalable validation methodologies, automation frameworks, quality metrics, and performance benchmarks
• Partner across architecture, silicon, AI, compiler, software, and product teams to deliver differentiated solutions
• Drive future SoC architecture, feature prioritization, technical trade-offs, and platform evolution
• Lead customer engagements, proof-of-concepts, and resolution of complex technical integration challenges
• Build, mentor, and lead high-performing engineering teams across AI, DSP, embedded software, and audio technologies
• Provide technical leadership in embedded AI, audio systems, heterogeneous computing, and commercial product delivery
• Ability to shape technology vision, roadmap, and execution to drive business growth and market leadership
• Exudes technical excellence by providing executive-level guidance on architecture, innovation, and complex technical decisions
• Strong analytical and business acumen; able to make informed decisions based on experience often under pressure, while considering business implications
• Ability to lead and motivate a diverse team: Achieves focus on key priorities, provides clear direction, delegates, actively communicates and coaches
• Ability to influence and lead through change and motivated by the challenge of a fast-paced, high-growth global environment
• The ability to think strategically and develop solutions that align with the company's overall business objectives and long-term goals
• Proficiency in identifying and assessing risks and developing effective strategies to mitigate those risks while ensuring the company's growth and innovation
• Establishes clear expectations, sets objectives and brings multiple parties together to drive key initiatives
• Excellent executive communication skills, capable of influencing senior stakeholders and cross-functional leadership
• Track record of mentoring senior engineers and developing next-level leaders

Qualifications (Requirements)

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related field or equivalent
• 15+ years’ experience in audio, with a focus on AI algorithms for multi-mic processing, AI concepts, and with 7+ years leading teams
• Deep experience leading cross-functional teams, with experience influencing product team
• Strong track record of working in a fast-paced, innovative environment with a focus on delivering high-quality products
• Demonstrated ability to drive innovation and stay up to date on the latest technologies and trends in the semiconductor industry
• Domestic and international travel up to 10% may be required

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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.