Thermal Controls R&D Engineer

Advantest America; Lake Forest (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Advantest America in Lake Forest, California, is seeking a highly skilled Thermal Controls R&D Engineer to join our Global Thermal R&D Team. This role involves designing and implementing control algorithms for next-generation semiconductor test environments and requires expertise in control systems engineering.

The ideal candidate will manage complex thermal systems, utilizing both classical control theory and AI/ML-based approaches to ensure precise temperature regulation. Join us to be part of a global initiative driving innovation in thermal technologies.

Qualifications

• Expertise in control systems engineering, including both classical and modern approaches.
• Strong practical experience with thermal systems required.
• Ability to develop simulation models for thermal dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement control algorithms for thermal systems.
• Develop simulation models for thermal dynamics using MATLAB/Simulink.
• Analyze system data to improve control strategies.

Skills

Control systems engineering

Classical control theory

AI/ML-based approaches

Simulation and analytical skills

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Advantest America is a leading provider of semiconductor test and measurement solutions. As part of our commitment to innovation, we are expanding our Global Thermal R&D Team to develop advanced thermal control strategies for next-generation semiconductor test environments.

We are seeking a highly skilled Thermal Controls R&D Engineer with expertise in control systems engineering, including both classical control theory and modern AI/ML-based approaches. This role involves designing, modeling, and implementing control algorithms for complex thermal systems, ensuring precise temperature regulation under dynamic conditions. The ideal candidate will have strong practical experience combined with simulation and analytical skills to drive innovation in thermal management.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and implement control algorithms for thermal systems, including heaters, chillers, and two-phase cooling loops.
• Develop simulation models for thermal dynamics and control performance using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent.
• Apply classical control theory (PID, state-space, adaptive control) and advanced techniques (AI/ML-based predictive control) to optimize system response.
• Integrate control systems into hardware platforms and validate performance through experimental testing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of thermal controls into semiconductor test equipment.
• Analyze system data to improve control strategies and enhance reliability, efficiency, and robustness.
• Support development of digital twins and predictive maintenance strategies using machine learning.

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to be part of a global initiative shaping the future of thermal technologies in semiconductor testing. You'll work with cutting‑edge tools and collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, driving innovation that directly impacts next‑generation test solutions.