Principal Test Engineer

Job Description

As a Principal Test Engineer, part of your responsibilities will be driving the evaluation, development, and deployment of advanced semiconductor test technologies across Nexperia’s global manufacturing network. Acting as a subject matter expert, you will identify emerging technologies, benchmark industry best practices, and lead strategic initiatives that improve test capability, quality, efficiency, and long-term manufacturing competitiveness. Part of your role will be providing strategic leadership for external manufacturing test operation releases, driving end‑to‑end readiness (for both wafer test and final test processes), defining test strategies, ensuring robust test data‑connectivity to Nexperia systems and infrastructure, evaluating RFQ proposals from the subcons with the business groups (BG), and serving as the technical authority and technical SME for subcon engagements and also ensuring the successful installation and qualification of consigned equipment.

This is a highly visible role that combines technical leadership, project management, and industry engagement. You will work closely with global engineering teams, manufacturing sites, suppliers, and technology partners to introduce innovative test solutions and ensure alignment with Nexperia’s technology roadmap.

What You Will Be Working On

• Researching, scouting, and evaluating new semiconductor test technologies, equipment, methodologies, and capabilities.
• Leading technical R&D projects focused on enhancing test performance, quality, reliability, and operational efficiency.
• Benchmarking industry best practices and identifying breakthrough solutions that can strengthen Nexperia’s test capabilities.
• Supporting the introduction and qualification of new test equipment, systems, and technologies across Nexperia manufacturing sites.
• Driving technical innovation through collaboration with internal engineering teams, external suppliers, and industry partners.
• Develop test customer-specific requirements (CRS) with BGs for subcon RFQs, evaluate technical proposals from the subcons, and perform technical comparative analysis.
• Manage test solution scanning activities and maintain updates in test subcon database.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage Test Technology R&D projects, including technology scouting, benchmarking, feasibility studies, evaluations, and implementation activities.
• Conduct market assessments of test equipment, automation solutions, software tools, test methodologies, and emerging industry technologies.
• Act as a technical subject matter expert, providing guidance and proactive solutions to manufacturing sites, subcontractors, and engineering teams worldwide.
• Coordinate and manage cross-functional projects involving Business Groups, Product Engineering, Package R&D, Manufacturing, and Technology & Operations organizations.
• Organize and lead global subject matter expert forums to drive best-practice sharing, equipment strategy discussions, technical issue resolution, and Equipment Life Cycle Management initiatives.
• Collaborate with suppliers and technology partners to evaluate, qualify, and introduce new equipment, capabilities, and innovative test solutions.
• Develop and deliver technical training programs to strengthen organizational competency and foster knowledge sharing across global teams.
• Monitor project progress, communicate key updates to stakeholders, and ensure the successful execution of assigned initiatives.
• Participate in industry conferences, technical symposiums, supplier user groups, and technology forums to identify trends and drive innovation within Nexperia.
• Take charge to ensure smooth process releases in the subcons, for both wafer test and final test areas.
• Plan and support on configuring system setups (including map system) for wafer testing and in-strip final testing flows working with the subcons.
• Define and work on external manufacturing test strategies, including required and/or suitable equipment, software solutions, and procedural controls and workflows.
• Act as a subcon test technical SME, liaising with BG TPEs and project leaders on subcon’s BG projects.
• Configure test data connectivity for new subcons or new production lines in line with Nexperia standard and specifications.
• Oversee the approval, installation, and qualification of consigned equipment.

What Makes This Role Exciting

This role provides a unique opportunity to influence Nexperia's global test technology strategy and shape the adoption of next-generation semiconductor test solutions. You will have the freedom to explore innovative technologies, engage with leading industry players, and drive initiatives that deliver measurable impact across multiple manufacturing sites worldwide. The position offers a strong combination of technical depth, strategic influence, global collaboration, and continuous learning. You will gain exposure to a variety of factories (from multiple external manufacturing sites) and develop a strong understanding of the industry’s current best practices and standards.

This is you

We are looking for a highly experienced and technically driven engineering professional with deep expertise in semiconductor test technologies and a proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives in a global environment. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with strategic thinking, enabling them to identify, evaluate, and introduce innovative test solutions that enhance quality, reduce risk, and support manufacturing excellence across Nexperia.

You are a collaborative leader who can confidently engage with technical experts, influence stakeholders, drive complex projects, and share knowledge across sites and organizations. You are passionate about continuous improvement and thrive in environments where innovation, problem-solving, and operational excellence are valued.

Education & Experience

Must Have

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Mechanical, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related Engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the semiconductor industry within Test Engineering or related test support functions such as Test Equipment Engineering, Wafer Probe, Test Process Engineering, Test AOI, or Product Engineering.
• Strong understanding of semiconductor product test methodologies, test equipment, and manufacturing test processes.

Nice to Have

• Strong foundation in electronics and semiconductor device fundamentals.
• Exposure to global manufacturing environments and multi-site project deployments.
• Experience in introducing new test technologies, capabilities, or platforms into production.

Technical Skills

Must Have

• Deep knowledge of semiconductor test methodologies, test processes, and production test environments.
• Hands-on experience with Automated Test Equipment (ATE) and semiconductor test handlers.
• Strong technical project leadership experience, including driving cross-functional initiatives from concept to implementation.
• Proven ability to evaluate, qualify, and implement new test technologies and solutions.

Nice to Have

• Experience with data analytics and statistical tools such as GR&R, Spotfire, SAS-JMP, Minitab, or similar platforms.
• Knowledge of test equipment architecture, hardware development, or advanced test process optimization.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0, test automation, or manufacturing digitalization initiatives.

Soft Skills

Must Have

• Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the ability to drive alignment across global and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical thinking capabilities, with a structured approach to decision-making.
• Effective communication and presentation skills in English, with the confidence to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Self-driven, proactive, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.

Nice to Have

• Passion for coaching, mentoring, and knowledge sharing through technical training and collaboration.
• Strong change management mindset with the ability to champion continuous improvement initiatives.
• Curiosity and market awareness to proactively identify emerging technologies and industry best practices.

What Makes You Successful in This Role

You bring a strong balance of technical expertise and leadership capability. You are confident in leading technical discussions, evaluating emerging test solutions, and influencing key stakeholders to drive adoption. You excel in collaborative environments, actively share your knowledge, and are motivated to raise engineering standards, improve quality, reduce manufacturing risk, and deliver sustainable value across Nexperia's global operations.

This is your department and colleagues

The role is part of the global Test Technology Team within Backend Technology, under Nexperia’s Technology & Operations organization. As a globally connected team, our members are strategically located across Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Malaysia, enabling close collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams across Nexperia’s worldwide operations.

Our team brings together extensive expertise spanning Test Engineering, Product Engineering, Test Equipment Development, Process Engineering, Hardware Development, Project Management, and Manufacturing Operations. This diverse mix of skills and experience creates a dynamic environment where knowledge sharing, innovation, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.

Working in Test Technology means collaborating with colleagues from around the world to develop and deploy value-driven engineering solutions that support Nexperia’s product roadmap, manufacturing excellence, and technology advancement.

Team Culture & Collaboration

As a global team, we foster a collaborative and inclusive culture through regular cross-site technical exchanges, knowledge-sharing sessions, project workshops, and virtual team engagement activities. Team members have opportunities to work on international projects, connect with experts across different functions and regions, and build strong professional relationships within Nexperia’s global engineering community. This environment encourages continuous learning, innovation, and personal growth while ensuring everyone contributes to shared success.

This is what Nexperia offers:

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Test Engineer to further enhance and broaden their technical expertise within a truly global environment. Working closely with Nexperia’s Business Groups, Product Engineering teams, and Test Manufacturing sites worldwide, you will play a key role in shaping the company’s test strategy and capabilities.

In this role, you will gain exposure to the latest semiconductor test technologies, drive the development and introduction of innovative test solutions, and contribute directly to improving quality, efficiency, and manufacturing excellence across Nexperia’s global operations. This is a highly visible position that offers the chance to collaborate with international experts, influence technology roadmaps, and make a meaningful impact on the future of Nexperia’s products and test platforms.

Good to Know

This role offers exposure to the latest advancements in semiconductor test technology and includes opportunities for both domestic and international travel as part of the job.

Travel may be required for:

• Attending major industry events and exhibitions (e.g., SEMICON) to scout and evaluate emerging test technologies, equipment, and industry trends.
• Visiting vendor sites and manufacturing facilities to assess new solutions, conduct technical evaluations, and strengthen strategic partnerships.
• Participating in technical training programs to expand expertise and stay current with evolving test technologies.
• Representing Nexperia at technical symposiums, conferences, and industry forums to exchange knowledge and benchmarks against industry best practices.
• Supporting technology deployment, qualification activities, and collaboration with global manufacturing and engineering teams.

This aspect of the role provides a unique opportunity to build a strong external industry network, gain first-hand insight into leading-edge technologies, and play a key role in identifying and introducing innovative test capabilities that enhance Nexperia's global operations.

Talent acquisition based on Nexperia vacancies is not appreciated. Nexperia job adverts are Nexperia copyright © material and the word Nexperia® is a registered trademark.

D&I Statement

As an equal-opportunity employer, Nexperia values diversity not just because it is the right thing to do but because diverse teams perform better. We are dedicated to being inclusive, and a proof point of this dedication is that we were the main partner of the very first Dutch Paralympic Team NL House during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all, and we consider all applicants fairly, as well as providing a safe work environment and reasonable adjustments where requested.

In addition, we offer our colleagues the possibility to join employee resource groups such as the Pride Network Group or global and local Women's groups. Nexperia is committed to increasing women in management positions to 30% by 2030.