Sr Principal GaN Modeling Engineer

Skyworks Solutions, Inc; Richardson (TX); On-site; USD 136,000 - 295,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

401(k) with company match

Employee stock purchase plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Skyworks Solutions, Inc. in the United States seeks a Sr Principal Modeling Engineer to lead RF GaN HEMT modeling, develop compact models, and collaborate with process and circuit teams.

The role requires extensive experience, advanced degrees, and proficiency with RF tools; offering a competitive base pay, benefits, and performance incentives.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field with a focus on semiconductor devices.
• 15+ years of experience in semiconductor device characterization and modeling, specifically with RF GaN HEMT technologies.
• Deep theoretical and practical understanding of GaN device physics and materials science.
• Proficiency with RF characterization equipment (network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, load-pull systems, probe stations).

Responsibilities

• Define on-wafer and packaged device characterization plans (DC, CV, RF S-parameters, noise, load-pull, pulsed I-V).
• Develop and refine accurate, physics-based compact models for GaN HEMTs.
• Use TCAD and circuit tools to simulate and validate model accuracy against measurements.
• Collaborate with PDK team and external customers for model deployment.
• Link device performance to fabrication parameters with process engineers.
• Analyze data, troubleshoot issues, and propose yield improvements.
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation for model usage and limitations.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive modeling innovations.

Skills

RF GaN HEMT

Device characterization

Model extraction

Python/MATLAB

TCAD tools

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in EE/Applied Physics

Tools

Keysight ADS

Cadence AWR

TCAD tools

Load-pull systems

Spectrum analyzers

Job description

If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no further. Skyworks is an innovator of high-performance analog semiconductors whose solutions are powering the wireless networking revolution.Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.

At Skyworks, you will find a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on global collaboration, minimal layers of management, and the freedom to make meaningful contributions in a setting that encourages creative thinking. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you and glad you want to be part of a team of talented individuals who together are changing the way the world communicates.

Requisition ID:78955

Job Description:

Sr Principal Modeling Engineer

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced RF GaN Transistor Modeling Engineer to join our Modeling Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the analysis, and development of accurate and predictive compact and behavioral models for Gallium Nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) used in high-frequency and high-power applications. This role involves close collaboration with process engineers, circuit designers, and product development teams to ensure our GaN technologies meet the highest performance and reliability standards for next-generation wireless communication systems.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Device Characterization:Define on-wafer and packaged device characterization plans, including DC, capacitance-voltage (CV), small-signal RF (S-parameters), noise, and large-signal measurements (e.g., load-pull, pulsed I-V).
• Model Development & Extraction:Develop and refine accurate, physics-based compact models for GaN HEMTs using industry-standard modeling tools and techniques (e.g., MVSG, ASM-HEMT, Angelov).
• Simulation & Validation:Utilize TCAD and circuit simulation tools (e.g., Keysight ADS, Cadence AWR/Spectre, Synopsys, Silvaco) to perform simulations, analyze data, and validate model accuracy against hardware measurements.
• PDK Development:Collaborate with the PDK Team and provide support for both internal and external customers.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:Work closely with process engineers to link device performance to fabrication parameters, with reliability engineers to understand long-term device stability, and with circuit designers to ensure models meet their design requirements.
• Analysis & Troubleshooting:Conduct in-depth analysis of test data, identify device or measurement issues, and propose solutions for performance and yield improvement.
• Documentation & Reporting:Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and application notes for model usage and limitations.
• Innovation & Mentorship:Research and develop novel modeling solutions and characterization techniques, and mentor junior engineers or team members.

Required Experience and Skills

Required Qualifications

• Education: Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field with a focus on semiconductor devices.
• Experience: 15+ years of experience in semiconductor device characterization and modeling, specifically with RF GaN HEMT technologies.
• Technical Skills:
  • Deep theoretical and practical understanding of GaN device physics and materials science.
  • Proficiency with RF characterization equipment (network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, load-pull systems, probe stations).

Desired Experience and Skills

• Expertise in industry-standard RF simulation and modeling tools (Keysight ADS, Cadence AWR, TCAD tools, etc.).
• Strong programming and data analysis skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++) for automation and data interpretation.

#LI-SM1

The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is currently USD$135,900 -$295,000 per year. Starting base pay will depend on relevant experience and skills, training and education, business needs, market demands, the ultimate job duties and requirements, and work location. Skyworks has different base pay ranges for different work locations in the U.S. Benefits include access to healthcare benefits (including a premium-free medical plan option), a 401(k) plan and company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off (including vacation, sick/wellness, parental leave), among others. Employees are eligible to participate in an incentive plan, and certain roles are also eligible for additional awards, including recognition and stock. These incentives and awards are based on individual and/or company performance.

Skyworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Skyworks strives to create an accessible workplace; if you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at [e-mail].