Validation & Characterization Engineer

Cirrus Logic; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Austin, TX, is seeking a Validation & Characterization Engineer. In this role, you will validate and characterize advanced mixed-signal products, collaborating closely with engineers. The ideal candidate has a BS in Electrical Engineering, over 2 years of experience, and skills in lab-based testing and data analysis. This position supports innovation in audio and power management technologies within a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant industry experience in silicon validation or mixed-signal characterization.
• Familiarity with analog and mixed-signal circuit fundamentals.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute validation and characterization test cases for mixed-signal ICs.
• Perform lab-based measurements to evaluate device performance.
• Support silicon bring-up and characterization activities.
• Document validation results and contribute to reports.

Skills

Silicon validation knowledge

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Collaboration

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Signal generators

Audio analyzers

Excel

JMP

Python

Job description

Location: Austin, TX (Hybrid)

For over four decades, Cirrus Logic has been propelled by the top engineers in mixed‑signal processing. Our rockstar team thrives on solving complex challenges with innovative end‑user solutions for the world’s top consumer brands. Cirrus Logic is also known for its award‑winning culture, built on a foundation of inclusion and fairness, meaningful community engagement, and delivering enjoyable employee experiences at every turn. But we couldn’t do it without our extraordinary workforce — and that’s where you come in. Join our team and help us continue to make Cirrus Logic an exceptional place to grow your career.

We’re looking for a Validation & Characterization Engineer to join our team in Austin, TX. In this role, you’ll contribute to the validation and characterization of advanced mixed‑signal products, working closely with senior engineers and cross‑functional teams to ensure our silicon meets performance and reliability specifications. Our products span audio CODECs, amplifiers, haptics/sensing devices, power delivery, battery management, and other mixed‑signal technologies used in mobile and consumer electronics.

This role is ideal for engineers with early industry experience who are eager to deepen their expertise in mixed‑signal silicon validation and lab‑based measurement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute validation and characterization test cases for mixed‑signal ICs based on datasheets and system requirements.
• Perform lab‑based measurements to evaluate device performance across metrics such as audio quality, noise, dynamic range, power efficiency, and signal integrity.
• Support silicon bring‑up and characterization activities under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Develop and maintain automation scripts and test infrastructure for validation and regression testing (Python preferred).
• Use lab instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, audio analyzers, and power measurement equipment to evaluate device performance.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret measurement data using tools such as Excel, JMP, or Spotfire.
• Assist in debugging silicon, test setups, and measurement discrepancies in collaboration with design and validation teams.
• Support correlation of lab measurements with production test results and assist with characterization data needed for manufacturing release.
• Document validation results and contribute to reports and presentations for cross‑functional teams.

Skills & Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Exposure to silicon validation, mixed‑signal characterization, or hardware lab testing.
• Familiarity with analog and mixed‑signal circuit fundamentals such as ADCs, DACs, amplifiers, PLLs, and power regulators.
• Experience with scripting or programming for automation (Python, MATLAB, or similar). Hands‑on experience with common lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, power supplies, or spectrum analyzers.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineers across design, systems, and test teams.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with audio or power‑management IC measurements.
• Familiarity with digital communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, I2S, or TDM.
• Exposure to automated test environments or PXI‑based instrumentation.
• Experience working with large datasets and measurement analysis tools such as JMP or Spotfire.
• Interest in developing deeper expertise in mixed‑signal silicon validation and measurement techniques.