ATE Applications Engineer

RF Applications Engineering is chartered to design, provide, and support RF semiconductor test solutions. These test solutions are used in mass production of RF Power Amplifiers, WLAN transceivers, cell phone transceivers, digital satellite tuners, MCU’s with integrated RF transceivers and other RF devices.  The test solution consists of semi-custom hardware and software that allows the standard test system to interface to, electrically stimulate and measure the response of the customers' specific semiconductor device while optimizing trade-offs between test execution speed and accuracy. Test solutions are typically in the DC to 8GHz range and can extend into the millimeter wave range for 5G, 802.11ad, and Automotive Radar.

Test techniques are implemented through software.  The RF Applications Engineer writes a test program in C++ to control the source and measure for the test.  Results are processed and spectrum or time domain features are calculated and datalogged. Libraries of existing techniques are leveraged and innovative new techniques are developed.

RF Applications Engineers are the super-users of the standard test system.  Therefore, these engineers are called on to develop innovative, complex techniques for conducting intricate and multifaceted measurements.  They spend time working directly with the customer at the customer site or via remote methods to develop test solutions and release them to production.

They are consulted on and actively participate in internal system development projects, customer development projects and problem resolution. In addition, they will occasionally provide guidance to customers' Device Designers and Test Engineers in the area of Design for Testability. Additional opportunities available to the Applications Engineer include demonstrating their proficiency in specific areas by conducting product demonstrations for customers and authoring and presenting technical articles and papers.

Key Skills

• AI Agentic Programming / Code Development Skills

• Strong RF Test knowledge, DC to 8GHz. 

• Strong Analog, Digital and RF circuit design knowledge

• Software development in a high-level programming language such as C++, C and C#

• Strong engineering problem solving methodology

• Strong communications skills

• Working knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) methods

• Familiarity with the application of statistical analysis techniques 

• Exposure to LINUX workstations and associated software applications preferred 

• Special projects, as assigned

• Ensure smooth cooperation among all Cohu divisions and departments through team-work.

• Co-operate with the Applications Team worldwide to meet goals, objectives and functions as defined above. 

Other

• Participate frequently in customer meetings and foster all levels of communications with customer 

• Focus on existing business processes and their appropriate usage as well on continued improvement of existing processes

• Report SPR’s (system performance reports) upon detecting any issues on the tester operating systems

• Write application notes and papers for internal use as well propose papers for exhibitions and public events

Qualifications:

• BSEE degree or similar education

• Experience/Knowledge in two or more of the listed disciplines: RF technology; Digital; Mixed Signal Test + DSP; Power Automotive; DFT (Design for Testability)

• Strong software skills or the desire to develop those skills.

• 0-10 years’ experience in the ATE and/or semiconductor industry

• Successful execution of turn-key projects.  Solid background in minimum two technology fields. 

• Fluent in English (written and spoken)

• Programming skills, good understanding of electronics and electrical engineering, creative, communicative, flexible, organized, willing to learn, willingness to travel, collaborate with other cultures, able to work in international teams.

Compensation: The estimated base pay range for this position is $80,000-120,000 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, education, and other job-related factors. This range represents Cohu’s good faith estimate of what it reasonably expects to pay for this role upon hire. This role may also be eligible for other compensation programs as determined by company policy.

Featured benefits

• Medical, dental & vision insurance

• 401(k) with company matching contributions

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

• Tuition assistance

• Disability & life insurance

• Profit Sharing

With more than 3000 employees worldwide, we offer challenging and rewarding work experiences, generous employee benefits and a strong company culture. If you are looking for a global publicly traded company that provides you with international experience and a challenging work environment, then Cohu is your choice.

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Cohu firmly supports the U.S. national and various state and local policies of equal employment opportunity which are designed to provide equality of employment and advancement opportunities to every individual without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, gender, gender identity or gender expression, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, genetic information, military or veteran status or any other legally protected category.

In addition, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified disabled individuals, upon request.

Globally, Cohu is committed to full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations governing employment, in the U.S. and in all other locations around the world where we have operations.

• Design and develop RF solutions, incorporating AI agentic code for efficient and innovative applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate RF technologies into existing systems.
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of RF designs, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Optimize Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in testing procedures.
• Provide technical support and guidance to customers, addressing their RF-related queries and concerns.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in RF technology and AI agentic code development, ensuring our solutions remain at the forefront of the industry.
• Document and maintain accurate records of RF designs, test results, and project progress.
• Identify and troubleshoot RF-related issues, implementing effective solutions to ensure smooth operations.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to develop and refine RF testing methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations when working with RF equipment.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in RF engineering, with a strong background in RF design and development.
• Proficiency in AI agentic code development, with the ability to create efficient and innovative solutions.
• Experience with Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) is highly preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex RF issues.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Familiarity with industry-standard RF design software and tools.
• Knowledge of RF testing methodologies and best practices.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to stay updated with the latest advancements in RF technology and AI.