Broadcom

Senior Integrated Circuit Wafer Probe Hardware Design & Validation Engineer (Probe Specialist)

Broadcom$143K — $230K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
  • 12+ years of experience in probe card design and high-performance test fixtures
  • Strong hands-on expertise with VNAs, TDR, and scopes
  • Deep understanding of RF/microwave principles and SI/PI fundamentals
  • Proficient in 3D CAD software and FEA modeling techniques

Responsibilities

  • Lead design of mechanical and electrical architecture for advanced probe cards
  • Perform signal integrity and power integrity analysis
  • Architect and evaluate probe solutions for diverse probing applications
  • Utilize advanced lab equipment for hardware performance quantification
  • Drive root cause analysis for probing-related failures
  • Collaborate with external vendors on probe design
  • Work cross-functionally with Test Engineering and Design teams

Benefits

  • Discretionary annual bonus eligibility
  • Competitive new hire equity grants and annual equity awards
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
  • 401(K) participation with company matching
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
  • Company paid holidays and vacation time
  • Paid Family Leave and other applicable leaves of absence
Full Job Description
We build some of the largest, highest-power silicon in the industry - full reticle (~850 mm2) 2.5D/3D devices dissipating multiple kilowatts, with tens of thousands of contacts, high-current power delivery, and 100G+ I/O. Testing these parts at wafer sort, final package, and system level pushes past where standard methods work: probe-tip planarity and CTE walk across the reticle, IR drop through the needle interface, thermal gradients that move everything, and coverage that has to be split intelligently across ATE and SLT. We are seeking a highly specialized Senior Probe Hardware Design & Validation Engineer who gets ahead of these problems rather than reacting to them - someone who serves as our subject matter expert (SME) in next-generation probing technologies. In this role, you will own the entire lifecycle of custom probe architectures - from initial electric, thermal and mechanical modeling to probe hardware design, supplier oversight, technology proof in and production issue debug. You will bridge the gap between design simulation and real-world silicon/hardware testing, ensuring our high-density, high-power probing solutions deliver flawless signal integrity and mechanical reliability under extreme testing conditions for probing full reticle size die for our custom AI products. Key Responsibilities 1. Advanced Architecture & Design • Design: Lead the mechanical and electrical architecture of advanced probe cards with vertical probe, MEMS probe, direct dock, probe on micro-bump, probe on sacrificial pad, and space transformer, and probe card PCB • Signal Integrity (SI) and Power Integrity (PI) Analysis: Performability to simulate and optimize SI with impedance and crosstalk control, and optimize PI with power plane and decoupling cap using frequency domain PDN analysis. • Mechanical Analysis: Evaluate mechanical contact force distribution, probe alignment and planarity, warpage from thermal expansion mismatch across temperature. 2. Probe Technology Deployment • Test Development: Architect and evaluate probe solutions for wafer probes, 3D IC subassembly probe and singulated die probing, probe performance analysis (C_res, CCC, probe mark size and touchdown life span), cooling capability and warpage profile. • Lab Execution: Utilize advanced lab equipment (TDR oscilloscopes, VNAs, microscopes, and wafer probers) to quantify hardware performance. • Root Cause Analysis: Drive failure analysis (FA) investigations for probe wear, probe burn, prober planarity and optical alignment issues, implementing corrective design actions. 3. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Manufacturing • Vendor Management: Partner closely with external probe and probe card design companies. • Team Integration: Work alongside Test Engineering, Product Engineering, and IC Design teams to ensure probe capabilities align with product roadmaps and test floor requirements. Required Qualifications & Skills • Education: Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline. • Experience: 12+ years of hands-on experience specifically focused on probe card design, vertical/MEMS probes, or high-performance test fixture development. • Expertise: Strong hands-on experience using Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR), and scopes to analyze SI and PI performance. Experience with production wafer prober or singulated die prober with ATE is highly desirable. • EE Toolkit: Deep understanding of transmission line theory, RF/microwave principles, and signal/power integrity (SI/PI) fundamentals. • ME Toolkit: High proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, or Creo) and FEA modeling techniques. Preferred Attributes ("Nice-to-Haves") • Familiarity with semiconductor wafer sort processes or automated test equipment (ATE) platforms (e.g., Advantest, Teradyne). • Knowledge of metallurgy, micro-plating, or advanced materials science relevant to probe tip wear and contact physics. • Experience with scripting languages (Python, MATLAB) and AI tools to automate data collection and analysis during validation loops. Compensation and Benefits The annual base salary range for this position is USD 143,800.00 To USD 230,000.00 As a valued member of our team, you'll be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus and the opportunity to receive not only a competitive new hire equity grant, but also annual equity awards, connecting your success directly to the company's growth. All subject to relevant plan documents and award agreements. Broadcom offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401(K) participation including company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company paid holidays, paid sick leave and vacation time. The company follows all applicable laws for Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

About Broadcom

Broadcom Limited is a designer, developer and global supplier of a range of analog semiconductor devices with a focus on III-V based products. Its product portfolio is extensive and includes over 6,500 products that it sells into four primary target markets: wireless communications, wired infrastructure, industrial and automotive electronics, and consumer and computing peripherals. Applications for its products in these target markets include cellular phones, consumer appliances, data networking and telecommunications equipment, enterprise storage and servers, renewable energy and smart power grid applications, factory automation, displays, optical mice and printers. Its product portfolio ranges from simple discrete devices to complex sub-systems that include multiple device types and incorporate firmware for interface between digital systems. It also includes mechanical hardware that interfaces with optoelectronic or capacitive sensors.

Broadcom Careers

Join Broadcom—a leader in technological innovation and a beacon for professionals seeking transformative career opportunities. At Broadcom, we are committed to building a diverse team of talented individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead the industry forward. Work You’ll Do At Broadcom, you will be part of a dynamic team that thrives on innovation and leadership. Our professionals are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies that redefine how we connect and communicate. Your work will not only influence the direction of technology but also contribute to industries and communities globally. Broadcom offers a range of job opportunities that cater to different skills and career aspirations. From engineering to marketing, our positions are designed to challenge your professional growth while contributing significantly to our global success. Join Our Inclusive Culture Broadcom is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated, and every team member is valued. We believe that diverse perspectives lead to more innovative solutions. Our commitment to diversity training ensures that all employees have the opportunity to thrive. Internship Programs Start your career with a Broadcom internship. Our internships provide invaluable industry experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a real-world setting. Interns at Broadcom are considered integral members of the team and are given responsibilities that challenge and enhance their academic learning. Professional Growth and Benefits Broadcom is deeply invested in the professional growth of its employees. We offer comprehensive benefits and resources to support both your professional and personal development. This includes competitive employment benefits, leadership training, and opportunities for career advancement. Networking and Career Development We encourage our employees to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career paths. Broadcom’s expansive network of industry professionals provides a robust environment for growth and innovation. Employees are supported in their efforts to pursue certifications, attend workshops, and take part in leadership training to hone their expertise and advance their careers. Hiring Process Our hiring process is designed to identify and attract professionals who are passionate, curious, and driven. Starting with your resume submission, through to the interview stage, each step is an opportunity for us to learn about your strengths and for you to understand our company's values and vision. Explore Job Opportunities Whether you are seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, Broadcom offers a range of opportunities to build a rewarding career. Explore the positions available and find where your skills and interests align with our needs. Stay Connected Join the Broadcom team and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and a commitment to quality. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for individuals who are creative, solution-driven, and ready to contribute to our team’s success. SEARCH BROADCOM JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Broadcom. Join Broadcom and propel your career to new heights in an environment where your contributions lead to real-world solutions and success.
Learn more about Broadcom
Size
20,000 employees
Market Cap
$231.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.9 billion
Founded
1991
5 Year Trend
+13.5%
Revenue
$24.6 billion
NASDAQ

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