Principal Applications Engineer - #1780885

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Job Description

Microchip, a forward-thinking semiconductor company at the forefront of GaN MMIC innovation, is seeking a Principal Applications Engineer to support and drive the development and testing of our industry-leading RF Power Amplifiers. This position plays a pivotal role in advancing products for applications in Communications, Radar, Satellite, and Instrumentation markets.

Reporting to the Senior Manager - Product Line, you will be responsible for a range of Evaluation Boards, also known as Development Tools or Dev Tools, that enable customers to evaluate Microchip’s high performance MMICs in an optimized application assembly. You will be supported by the local development team that develops MMICs and designs the respective evaluation circuits.

New Dev Tools are assembled and tested in Belfast and once established are produced in larger quantities by approved overseas subcontractors. You will be equipped with your own state of the art RF test bench running IQSTAR software to produce test reports for standard and custom Dev Tools that are assembled in Belfast.

Why Join Microchip?

At Microchip, you'll work alongside a team of experts on next-generation RF MMIC technologies. You'll have access to state-of-the-art equipment and tools, autonomy in your work, and opportunities to influence high-impact products in defence, satellite, and telecoms industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute test solutions for advanced MMIC-based RF power amplifiers across 1–100 GHz frequency range and medium to high power levels.
• Conduct in-depth characterization and validation of amplifiers, including CW/Pulsed Power, S-parameters, ACPR, EVM, and other complex modulation measurements.
• Utilize cutting-edge software/hardware platforms (e.g., AMCAD / IQSTAR) to build robust and efficient automated test solutions.
• Maintain and enhance test platforms, introducing new capabilities and innovations for both engineering and production environments.
• Prepare detailed test reports, datasheets, and technical documentation to support product development and customer engagement.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including Design, Quality, Manufacturing, Reliability, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless product delivery and quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve test-related issues involving hardware setup, calibration, and test condition optimization.
• Lead by example to uphold a culture of ethics, accountability, and technical excellence.
  
  

Requirements/Qualifications

A successful candidate should possess some or all of the following balance of skills;

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, RF, or related field) with 8+ years’ experience in RF/microwave testing and applications engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of RF components, especially Power Amplifiers, with hands-on device-level test and characterization experience.
• Proficient in operating RF test equipment: VNA, Spectrum Analyzer, Signal Generator, Power Meter, etc.
• Familiarity with RF testing techniques including CW/Pulsed S-parameters, IMD, NF, Power Sweeps, etc.
• Experience in microelectronics packaging processes (die attach, wire bonding, SMT, PCB materials).
• Strong software skills for data manipulation in Microsoft Excel, presentation creation in PowerPoint, and automation using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or C.
• Ability to manage technical projects and meet tight development timelines.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  
  

Travel Time

0% - 25%

To all recruitment agencies: Microchip Technology Inc. does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our recruiting team or other Microchip employees. Microchip is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.