Validation & Characterization Engineer (JI)
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:
- 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.
