What are the responsibilities and job description for the Validation & Characterization Engineer - Global Operations position at Cirrus Logic?
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Interested in developing deeper expertise in mixed-signal silicon validation and measurement techniques.
Cirrus Logic is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We strive to select the best qualified applicant for any opening and to reward employees based on their skills, experience and performance. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, pregnancy status, marital status, gender, age, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.