Lam Research

RF Technical Director

Lam Research$145K — $303K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field
  • 15+ years of RF engineering experience, or 12+ years with a Master's, or 8+ years with a PhD
  • Leadership experience in RF system design and RF subassemblies
  • Track record of driving RF development from concept to production
  • Experience leading large-scale engineering initiatives

Responsibilities

  • Define RF system architecture and long-term technology roadmap
  • Direct RF development activities across various subsystems
  • Establish technical direction for high-power RF and advanced subsystems
  • Drive innovation in RF performance, reliability, and manufacturability
  • Lead critical design reviews and risk mitigation activities
  • Provide technical leadership for escalated system performance issues
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to execute complex programs

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package supporting various life phases
  • Investment in employee development and training opportunities
  • Access to a culture fostering innovation and accountability
  • Flexible work environment promoting work-life balance
  • Opportunities for mentorship and growth within the organization
Full Job Description
The impact you'll make

You will define and drive the technical vision for RF engineering across multiple product lines, leading the development of advanced RF subsystems and system architectures that enable next-generation semiconductor equipment performance. As a recognized technical authority, you will establish RF design direction, influence technology strategy, and ensure engineering rigor across the full product lifecycle-from concept through high-volume manufacturing and field performance.

Through deep technical leadership, cross-functional influence, and a commitment to engineering excellence, you will shape RF innovation, strengthen organizational capability, and deliver differentiated solutions that drive customer and business outcomes.

What you'll do

RF Technology Leadership & Strategy
  • Define RF system architecture, design strategy, and long-term technology roadmap aligned to product and business objectives
  • Direct and oversee RF development activities spanning RF subassembly design, RF system design, and integration into complex plasma delivery and control systems
  • Establish technical direction for high-power RF delivery, matching networks, and advanced RF subsystems
  • Drive innovation in RF performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost optimization

Technical Governance & Execution Excellence
  • Establish and enforce RF engineering standards, design methodologies, and review rigor across programs
  • Lead critical design reviews, failure analysis (RCCA), and risk mitigation activities for complex RF systems
  • Provide hands-on technical leadership for escalated issues impacting system performance, reliability, or customer outcomes
  • Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, safety requirements, and internal engineering processes


What you'll do, con't

Cross-Functional & Business Leadership
  • Partner with Product Management, Systems Engineering, Program Management, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to drive execution of complex programs
  • Translate customer and business requirements into RF technical strategies, roadmaps, and resourcing plans
  • Influence product architecture decisions and trade-offs at the system and platform level
  • Contribute to strategic planning, capital allocation, and operational improvement initiatives

Organizational & Talent Development
  • Build and mentor a high-performing organization of RF engineers and technical leaders
  • Develop technical leadership pipelines and foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous learning
  • Guide organizational capability in RF system design, modeling, validation, and production support
  • Drive alignment and collaboration across global and matrixed engineering teams


Who we're looking for

A highly accomplished RF engineering leader with deep domain expertise, strong system-level thinking, and a proven ability to influence technical direction at scale. You balance hands-on technical credibility with strategic leadership and thrive in complex, cross-functional environments.

Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a closely related field
• 15+ years of related RF engineering experience; or 12+ years with a Master's degree; or 8+ years with a PhD; or equivalent experience
• Demonstrated leadership in RF system design, RF subassemblies, and high-performance RF solutions
• Proven track record of driving complex RF development efforts from concept through production
• Experience leading large-scale or multi-team engineering initiatives

Preferred qualifications

  • Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
  • Expertise in high-power RF systems, matching networks, plasma applications, or semiconductor equipment RF delivery
  • Strong background in RF modeling, simulation, validation, and performance optimization
  • Experience with design reviews, FMEA, RCCA, and structured engineering processes
  • Demonstrated success operating in global, matrixed organizations and influencing without direct authority
  • Track record of building high-performing teams and developing future technical leaders


Salary

CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $145,000.00 - $303,000.00.

The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.

Our Perks and Benefits

At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.

About Lam Research

Lam Research Corporation (Lam Research) is a supplier of wafer fabrication equipment and services to the worldwide semiconductor industry. Lam Research designs, manufactures, markets, refurbish, and services semiconductor processing equipment used in the fabrication of integrated circuits. The Company’s etch and clean technologies enable customers to build integrated circuits. Its etch systems shape the microscopic conductive and dielectric layers into circuits that define a chip’s final use and function. Its Customer Support Business Group (CSBG) provides products and services to maximize installed equipment performance and operational efficiency. Its customer base includes semiconductor memory, foundry, and integrated device manufacturers (IDMs) that make DRAM, NAND, and logic devices for these products.

Lam Research Careers

Joining Lam Research offers a unique opportunity to enhance your career at a leading global company at the forefront of innovation and technology in the semiconductor industry. Work You’ll Do At Lam Research, we are committed to advancing the technology landscape through continuous innovation and leadership. Our team of professionals is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible, making us a pivotal player in the semiconductor industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, contributing to projects that significantly impact future technology. Transform Your Career Lam Research stands at the intersection of technology, innovation, and leadership. We offer job opportunities that challenge you to excel and push your limits. Our culture fosters growth and embraces diversity, ensuring that every team member can thrive professionally and personally. Join our dynamic team and be part of a company known for its groundbreaking work in developing equipment and services that drive the production of virtually every leading-edge chip in the world. Professional Growth and Development We believe in nurturing the professional growth of our employees by providing ample opportunities for career advancement through leadership and diversity training programs. Our commitment to your career is reflected in our robust benefits package, designed to support you and your family’s health, well-being, and financial future. Internship and Employment Opportunities Start your career path at Lam Research with our internship programs, which offer a hands-on experience in the semiconductor industry. Interns work closely with experienced mentors, gaining invaluable skills and knowledge that prepare them for full-time positions within our company. For seasoned professionals, we offer a variety of positions that leverage your skills to contribute to our mission of continuous improvement and innovation. We are always looking for curious, creative, and driven individuals to join our team. Inclusive Culture and Networking Lam Research is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. Our culture encourages networking and collaboration, allowing you to connect with colleagues and industry leaders who are as passionate about technology and innovation as you are. Applying at Lam Research Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore the job opportunities at Lam Research by visiting our Careers page. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and prepare for an interview that could lead to a multitude of rewarding career paths with us. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest company news, employment trends, and career tips by joining our community. Subscribe to receive updates that can help you navigate your professional journey at Lam Research. Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, innovative, and solution-driven team players. Start your journey with Lam Research today, where your work isn’t just a job—it’s a pathway to personal and professional fulfillment. SEARCH LAM RESEARCH JOBS Discover the opportunities waiting for you at Lam Research, where we turn today’s innovations into tomorrow’s technologies.
Learn more about Lam Research
Size
14,100 employees
Market Cap
$54.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.9 billion
Founded
2013
5 Year Trend
+16.5%
Revenue
$11.9 billion
NASDAQ

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