Module Reliability Engineer

Overview

Location: Cambridge

Department: New Product Introduction

Reports To: Director NPI

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Forefront RF is an innovative fabless semiconductor company developing cutting-edge RF technology for mobile device manufacturers. Our mission is to revolutionize RF front-end technology by enabling seamless global connectivity and unlocking the long-standing vision of true software-defined radio. We are developing advanced, multi-chip RF modules that integrate adaptive circuitry, digitally controlled components, embedded software, and complex analog/RF designs into highly compact form factors.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Forefront RF at an early stage and have a real impact. We are looking for an experienced Module Reliability Engineer to take ownership of the reliability qualification of our novel RF System-in-Package (SiP) modules. In this hands-on and cross-functional role, you will ensure our technology meets the stringent robustness and reliability requirements of high-volume telecom applications.

You will define, execute, and analyze test plans to validate new materials, assembly processes, and packaging schemes under realistic and accelerated conditions. This role bridges R&D innovation with product robustness to meet the standards of high-volume telecom customers worldwide.

• Develop and execute reliability qualification plans for new RF modules (incl. thermal cycling, vibration, mechanical shock, moisture sensitivity, etc.)
• Design and implement custom stress and test setups where needed
• Manage external labs or partners for outsourced testing, reliability qualification and failure analysis
• Collaborate with design, packaging, and test engineering teams to address and mitigate identified reliability risks
• Lead Design-for-Reliability (DfR) reviews in early development stages
• Analyze test results using statistical methods (Weibull, MTTF, etc.) to derive product lifetime and identify weak points
• Work closely with foundries, assembly and test houses, and customers to support qualification activities and external reliability audits
• Maintain compliance with industry standards (e.g., JEDEC, ISO 9001)
• Contribute to the development of reliability documentation and customer reports

About you:

You're excited by the opportunity to work with breakthrough technologies. You may thrive in this role if you have some or all of the following:

• Degree in Electronics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent
• Demonstrable experience in reliability engineering within RF, semiconductors, or advanced electronics
• Familiar with JEDEC reliability standards and environmental stress testing
• Solid understanding of RF (SiP) module architectures and the impact of packaging on performance and reliability
• Demonstrated expertise in thermal and mechanical simulation of RF modules and electronic assemblies, using advanced tools to predict stress, fatigue life, and heat distribution under accelerated testing conditions
• Experience with failure analysis methods including cross-sectioning, X-ray inspection, SEM/EDX, and other techniques to identify material, mechanical, or process-related defects
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab, Python)

• Opportunity to work at the cutting edge of wireless technology
• Dynamic, startup-like environment with close collaboration across disciplines
• Ownership and visibility—your contributions will directly shape the company's success
• Competitive salary and pension contributions
• Company share option scheme
• 25 days holiday + national holidays
• Weekly company lunches
• Flexible work hours and remote work options

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Note:

If you are reading this job description, you have found an opportunity to contribute to Forefront RF and its mission. We welcome applicants who align with our values and are eager to grow with us.