Semiconductor Test Development Engineer
$117k - $180k USD
About Atomic Semi
Atomic Semi is building a small, fast semiconductor fab.
It’s already possible to build this with today’s technology and a few simplifications. We’ll build the tools ourselves so we can quickly iterate and improve.
We’re building a small team of exceptional, hands-on engineers to make this happen. Mechanical, electrical, hardware, computer, and process. We’ll own the stack from atoms to architecture. Our team is optimistic about the future and we want to continue pushing the limits of technology.
Smaller is better. Faster is better. Building it ourselves is better.
We believe our team and lab can build anything. We’ve set up 3D printers, a wide array of microscopes, e-beam writers, general fabrication equipment - and whatever is missing, we’ll just invent along the way.
Atomic was founded by Sam Zeloof and Jim Keller. Sam is best known for making chips in his garage, and Jim has been a leader in the semiconductor industry for the past 40 years.
About the role
As a Semiconductor Test Development Engineer at Atomic Semi, you’ll play a critical role in bridging process development, and electrical test. Your work will focus on characterizing semiconductor devices, designing and automating test infrastructure, and extracting key electrical parameters to inform process improvements. This is a hands-on, high-ownership role that requires both deep technical understanding and strong collaboration with process, test, and design engineers.
We're looking for someone who’s excited to work across disciplines developing probe cards, designing test structures, running electrical characterization, and building automation infrastructure. A background in device physics and experience with CMOS modeling (e.g., BSIM) will be valuable, especially for parameter extraction and feedback into process development.
You’ll have the opportunity to work across the full testing stack from test structure design to silicon fabrication and data analysis. Your contributions will help shape how we validate and improve our CMOS processes in a fast-paced, startup environment.
Responsibilities
Collaborate with process and electrical engineers to design probe cards and test structures
Design and fabricate CMOS test chips for characterization and calibration
Develop and implement test plans to extract key device parameters (e.g., threshold voltage, mobility, leakage)
Use parameter extraction tools and methods (e.g., BSIM models) to characterize devices and model performance
Analyze test data to provide feedback to process engineers, helping improve materials and process flows
Develop and maintain test automation infrastructure for streamlined electrical characterization
Document test results and characterization findings clearly and rigorously
Required Experience
BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field
Strong understanding of CMOS device physics and electrical characterization
Experience with probe station operation
Familiarity with parameter extraction techniques and device modeling (e.g., BSIM)
Experience with lab instrumentation and test automation
Hands-on experience with semiconductor device fabrication and test structures
Nice-to-have
Experience with process development kits (PDKs) and test chip layout
Experience with cleanroom fabrication and full CMOS process flow
Experience conducting reliability testing and analysis
Working at Atomic Semi
We’re an early-stage hardware startup with solid funding, world-class advisors, and a lab/office in San Francisco, CA.
Compensation: Atomic Semi is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The annual salary range for this role is $117,000 – $180,000. Compensation is determined based on your qualifications and experience. Our total compensation package also includes generous equity in Atomic Semi.
Benefits: Atomic Semi offers the following benefits, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Generous Paid Time Off inclusive of Holidays and Sick Time
Visa Sponsorship
Life and Disability Insurance
Paid Parental Leave
401(k) retirement plan
Weekly Learning & Development opportunities
Commuter Benefits including Parking and Late Night Uber rides from the office
Lunches daily, Dinners 3x per week, Stocked Office Kitchen with Snacks and Spindrifts
We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability or other legally protected statuses.
Export Control Analysis: This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.