DFT architect/lead
Listed on 2026-06-02
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Engineering
Systems Engineer, Electronics Engineer
DFT architect / lead engineer serves as a technical authority and strategic lead in designing and deploying industry‑leading Design‑for‑Test (DFT) architectures. This role is responsible for the end‑to‑end DFT strategy for complex, high‑performance SoCs—spanning architectural definition, advanced ATPG/MBIST/LBIST strategies, and silicon lifecycle management. You will drive innovation in test methodology to achieve world‑class quality, minimize test cost, and ensure seamless transition from pre‑silicon RTL to high‑volume manufacturing (HVM).
JobArchitectural Leadership
Define and own the global DFT architecture, including Hierarchical Scan, Compressed ATPG, Memory BIST/Repair (BISR), Logic BIST, and IEEE 1687 (IJTAG) networks for multi‑die or chiplet‑based designs.
Test Strategy OptimizationDevelop advanced strategies for defect‑oriented testing and optimize pattern volumes to balance aggressive coverage targets with tester memory constraints and test time.
Cross‑Functional IntegrationLead the integration of DFT requirements into RTL, synthesis, and physical design (STA/PD) flows. Drive "Design for Manufacturability" (DFM) initiatives to improve yield.
Silicon Bring‑up & DebugSpearhead post‑silicon validation and silicon bring‑up. Own the root‑cause analysis of complex test failures and provide expert‑level debugging of ATE/system‑level failures.
Methodology & AutomationArchitect and maintain scalable, high‑performance DFT flows using TCL, Python, or Perl. Evaluate and benchmark emerging EDA tool features to stay ahead of technology nodes (5nm/3nm and beyond).
Mentorship & InfluenceProvide technical mentorship to junior and senior engineers. Act as a consultant for RTL/DV/PD/STA teams to proactively address timing or routing issues caused by DFT structures.
Technical DocumentationAuthor comprehensive DFT specifications and strategy documents that serve as the "Gold Standard" for current and future project iterations.
Device ExecutionAt times, will need to own device execution, lead a team through spec, integration, verification and into silicon bring‑up.
Other Responsibilities:
Perform all activities in a safe and responsible manner and support all Environmental, Health, Safety & Security requirements and programs.
- Education:
Bachelor’s, Master’s, in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields. - Experience:
7+ years of hands‑on DFT experience with a proven track record of successfully taping out multiple complex SoCs. Must have silicon debug experience including first silicon bring‑up, characterization, customer debug, and ramp to production. - Tool Mastery:
Expert‑level proficiency with industry‑standard EDA suites (e.g., Synopsys TestMAX/DFTMAX, Cadence Modus, or Siemens/Mentor Tessent). - Advanced Logic Knowledge:
Deep understanding of scan compression architectures, hierarchical DFT, and mixed‑signal test integration. - Scripting:
Advanced proficiency in TCL and Python/Perl for developing custom CAD attributes and automating complex EDA flows. - Problem Solving:
Demonstrated ability to solve timing closure issues related to DFT or complex ATPG coverage gaps.
- Specialized Flows:
Experience with Automotive ASIL‑D functional safety requirements, including In‑System Test (IST) and periodic logic/memory monitoring. - Advanced Packaging:
Knowledge of 2.5D/3D IC testing, TSV probing, or HBM test strategies. - Yield Analysis:
Experience with Volume Diagnostics and Yield Learning tools to drive DPPM reduction. - Industry Presence:
Active participation in technical conferences or a history of contributing to patented DFT innovations.
Expected Salary Range $ - $. The exact salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience and location.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.
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