Shift:The regular hours for this position are day shift.
Job Description:FormFactor is seeking a highly skilled
Principal RF Engineer to support the development, characterization, and optimization of advanced RF products for high-frequency applications. This role combines electromagnetic modeling, hands-on RF measurement, data analysis, and first-principles engineering to solve complex product and measurement challenges.
The Principal RF Engineer will translate product requirements into clear engineering requirements and deliverables, develop and validate RF models, characterize product performance, and investigate irregularities through a combination of simulation, laboratory experimentation, and analytical problem-solving. This position works closely with engineering, design, Advanced Applications, and manufacturing teams while also providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
Key Responsibilities:RF Design, Modeling & Characterization- Analyze product requirements and translate them into well-defined engineering requirements, specifications, and deliverables.
- Utilize advanced electromagnetic simulation and RF design tools to develop and evaluate models for high-frequency applications.
- Plan and execute RF measurements to validate models, correlate simulated and measured performance, and support the transition from modeling to physical prototypes.
- Measure and verify new RF products against established design parameters and performance requirements.
- Apply RF characterization techniques, including S-parameters, time-domain reflectometry (TDR), and dielectric characterization, as appropriate to product development and validation.
- Support RF calibration and measurement methodologies across high-frequency applications.
Technical Analysis & Problem Solving- Identify, investigate, and resolve irregularities in RF device performance using data analysis, first-principles analysis, simulation, and controlled experimentation.
- Analyze complex RF measurement data to identify performance trends, root causes, and opportunities for design improvement.
- Develop experimental approaches to validate technical hypotheses and resolve challenging RF performance issues.
- Correlate simulation, laboratory measurement, and physical product performance to improve design confidence and product robustness.
Cross-Functional Engineering- Collaborate with the Advanced Applications team to solve complex customer measurement challenges.
- Partner with internal engineering, design, applications, and manufacturing teams to resolve technical, measurement, and manufacturability issues.
- Provide RF expertise throughout product development, prototype evaluation, characterization, and manufacturing transition.
- Clearly communicate technical findings, analysis, recommendations, and tradeoffs to cross-functional stakeholders.
Technical Leadership- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
- Share RF measurement, simulation, characterization, and problem-solving expertise across engineering teams.
- Contribute to the development and adoption of effective RF engineering methodologies, tools, and technical practices.
Preferred Qualifications & Experience: - Extensive background in RF engineering with an emphasis on high-frequency applications from approximately 4 GHz to 90 GHz.
- Hands-on experience with electronics laboratory equipment and RF measurement procedures, including vector network analyzers and calibration methodologies, or experience working with semiconductor test platforms such as Advantest or Teradyne.
- Working knowledge of RF characterization principles, including S-parameters, TDR, dielectric behavior, and related measurement techniques, or a strong technical foundation with the ability to quickly develop expertise in these areas.
- Experience with electromagnetic simulation and RF design environments such as Synopsys HFSS, Keysight ADS, or Cadence Microwave Office.
- Familiarity with RF calibration techniques such as SOL, SOLR, SOLT, and multiline TRL is preferred.
- Understanding of cellular RF front-end architecture and components such as power amplifiers (PAs), low-noise amplifiers (LNAs), and filters is preferred.
- Familiarity with high-speed digital technologies and components, including transimpedance amplifiers (TIAs), PAM4, and SerDes, is preferred.
- Python experience or demonstrated ability to develop basic scripts for engineering analysis and automation is beneficial.
Skills: High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS), High Speed PCB Design, RF Calibration, RF Measurements, RF Simulations, Vector Network Analyzer (VNA)
Education & Experience: Minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 3 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work | Required
Pay Range:$94,100.00 - $123,480.00
Pay Range Explained:This role in Beaverton, Oregon pays between $94,100.00 and $123,480.00 per year, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You'll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.
