R&D IC Testing Engineer

What you will do

Join imec’s Connectivity Pathfinding (COP) team as an R&D IC Testing Engineer and lead the end-to-end testing and characterization of cutting-edge system demonstrator chips, validating tomorrow’s chips with precision and purpose.

In this role, you will be at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing and executing advanced test strategies for our IC demonstrators. You will collaborate closely with chip designers, system architects, and integration experts to address complex challenges in signal integrity, thermal behaviour, and system-level robustness. From setting up high-speed measurement environments to analysing eye diagrams and S-parameters, you will own the testing workflow from lab setup to data interpretation and reporting. Additionally, your work will involve developing Known Good Die (KGD) testing for heterogeneous packaging technologies, including 2.5D and 3D architectures. Your work will ensure that imec’s system demonstrators meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and integration readiness.

As part of the COP department, your contributions will directly support imec’s mission to shape the future of interconnected SoCs, leveraging chiplet-based architectures, advanced RF integration, and silicon photonics. This is a unique opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment where your expertise in IC testing, high-speed signal analysis, and scripting (Python, MATLAB) will drive the development of next-generation semiconductor systems.

• Define and document test strategies and detailed test plans tailored to project requirements, in particular IC demonstrators for electrical and optical interconnects.
• Drive scalable and efficient KGD validation workflows through cross-functional teamwork and continuous process improvement.
• Collaborate closely with chip designers and system architects to ensure rigorous testing standards and address key challenges in die quality, thermal management, and system robustness.
• Set up and execute measurements using advanced lab equipment (network analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, etc.).
• Perform transient measurements, analyze eye diagrams, and characterize S-parameters to evaluate chip performance.
• Own the testing workflow end-to-end, from setup to execution and data analysis.
• Report measurement results clearly and concisely through written reports and presentations.
• Collaborate closely with chip designers, firmware engineers, and system architects to refine test approaches and improve test coverage.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the test equipment capabilities and calibration procedures.
• Contribute to improving test methodologies, lab practices, and result reproducibility.
• This position is based in Leuven and requires in average 3 days per week onsite presence.

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• Master’s or PhD degree in engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in CMOS IC testing
• Strong experience in RF/mixed-signal measurement and lab instrumentation.
• Hands-on expertise with network analyzers, transient measurement setups, eye diagram analysis, and S-parameters.
• Solid understanding of chip design principles and system-level testing challenges.
• Experience with wafer-level measurement systems is a significant plus.
• Coding skills in Python and/or Matlab.
• Proficient in data analysis and technical reporting.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex test results to multidisciplinary teams.
• Proactive mindset with strong collaboration skills and attention to detail.
• You possess a critical mindset and are eager to explore new challenges in the future, evolving alongside the changing R&D demands.
• You are an open and constructive team player.  
  
  

We seek a candidate who thrives in a dynamic work environment, showcasing an adaptability to diverse projects or research topics. You’ll be a key team player, ready to support colleagues and tackle impactful projects within the timelines of our trusted global partners.

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.