Analog Characterization Engineer

Project

Work done for a product or program.

• Write the characterisation plan mapping every datasheet parameter to a measurement method, instrument, accuracy budget and pass/fail limit.
• Design and debug evaluation boards and test fixtures with attention to grounding, shielding, decoupling and probe loading.
• Measure precision parameters — offset, drift, noise spectral density, PSRR, CMRR, INL/DNL, settling — to instrument-limited accuracy.
• Measure dynamic and RF parameters such as SNDR, SFDR, phase noise, EVM, ACLR, S-parameters and noise figure as the product demands.
• Characterise across process splits, corner lots, voltage and temperature and analyse distributions statistically with Cpk reporting.
• Correlate measured data against simulation and drive root-cause investigations with the designer when they disagree.
• Produce the datasheet-grade characterisation report, typical performance curves and parameter limit recommendations.
• Transfer characterisation knowledge into the production test program with product and test engineering, including correlation studies.
• Debug first-silicon failures, including bench isolation of the failing block, trim exploration and workaround identification.

Function

Work that keeps the discipline running: methods, tools, suppliers and people.

• Automate measurements in Python, LabVIEW or TestStand over GPIB/LAN, including temperature-chamber sequencing and multi-unit runs.

Project

1. Produce and hand over the role's key deliverables
   • Characterisation plan with parameter-to-method traceability
   • Evaluation boards and automated measurement test benches
   • Full characterisation data set across PVT and process splits
   • Datasheet typical performance curves and recommended limits
   • Simulation-to-silicon correlation and discrepancy report
2. Develop the test solutionGeneral
   • Define the test plan and coverage targets
   • Write and debug the test program
   • Design or specify the test hardware
3. Release to productionGeneral
   • Correlate results across testers and sites
   • Optimise test time
   • Release the program under change control

Function

1. Maintain test infrastructureGeneral
   • Keep program libraries and standards current
   • Plan tester and hardware capacity
2. Improve methodsGeneral
   • Review escapes and adjust coverage
   • Develop data analysis tools