Validation/Characterization Engineer

Job-ID: 25018518Category: Engineering - Product DevLocation: Dallas, TX, United StatesPosted: 2026-10-08ECL/GTC Required: YesChange the world. Love your job.About the TeamThis role is in the HVDC datacenter product line where we are working on designing the chips needed for the next generation of AI datacenter power supplies. This is a high visibility and high growth product area. The product line develops both 400V GaN power stages as well as low-voltage synchronous rectifiers. We are looking for a validation engineer that will lead the validation efforts across both the primary-side 400V GaN power stages and the secondary low-voltage synchronous rectifiers, playing a critical part in bringing next-generation AI datacenter power solutions to market.Job ResponsibilitiesAs a Validation Engineer, your primary responsibility is to ensure the product meets its specifications as defined in the datasheet and VVCM (validation/verification compliance matrix). Beyond specification compliance, you are responsible for ensuring device functionality is fully characterized and validated across real-world system-level use cases. In order to achieve this, validation engineers design PCB boards and develop automation software to increase coverage and reduce data collection time. You will also work closely with design, systems, and application engineers to drive root cause analysis on failures and influence product improvements based on validation findings. As a member of the HVDC new product development execution team, you will be responsible for validating both the 400V GaN power stages and the low voltage synchronous rectifiers. Validation work will involve the following:Work with the product definition and design team before device availability to thoroughly understand validation requirements, including device-level and system-level specifications.Define, own, and drive a comprehensive validation test plan and schedule that covers every specification in the VVCM, the datasheet, and required functional tests, ensuring full traceability and on‑time delivery of results.Design and build validation PCBs using Cadence Allegro X that meet high-voltage signal and power integrity requirements for the GaN power stages and high-current requirements for the low-voltage synchronous rectifiers, while leveraging and integrating with existing validation hardware infrastructure.Build reusable, automated test sequences using NI TestStand and LabVIEW to execute the validation plan, collect characterization data across multiple devices and test conditions, and drive execution of all functional tests. Analyze characterization data collected across multiple devices and test conditions against VVCM specifications to assess device compliance, verify that all functional tests have defined pass/fail criteria, and confirm all tests have passed prior to validation sign-off. Drive cross-functional reviews covering validation hardware, test results, and debug findings with stakeholders across design, systems, applications, and test engineering teams. Perform datasheet plot generation; apply statistical analysis (distributions, Cpk, limit capability) to assess spec margins and drive datasheet limit decisions.Investigate unexpected behavior when observed during validation through structured design of experiments (DoE) to narrow down the root cause — whether an error in stimulus, error in hardware, or a suspect on-device circuit block — and drive resolution with the design team.Maintain clear, thorough documentation of validation test plans, test procedures, and debug findings. Author concise validation summaries that include all test results for cross-functional reviews and program records.QualificationsMinimum requirements:Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field of study3+ years of relevant semiconductor industry experience in Characterization or ValidationProficiency with lab instrumentation: oscilloscopes, SMUs, DMMs, signal generators, power supplies, and NI PXI systemExperience developing test automation using Python, NI TestStand, LabVIEWPreferred qualifications:Domain Knowledge & InterpersonalExperience testing high‑voltage GaN power stages and low‑voltage synchronous rectifiers—including COSS, double‑pulse test, SOA, and IDSAT measurements—is a strong plus.Proven ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, results‑driven development environment.Demonstrated expertise in diagnosing and resolving complex hardware, software, and device-level issues using systematic debugging methodologies and root-cause analysis. Strong hands-on laboratory skills, including proficient soldering, board bring up, and equipment setup for validation testing. Ability to establish strong relationships with key stakeholders critical to success, both internally and externally. Strong verbal and written communication skills.Self-driven with a strong sense of ownership — able to independently plan and execute validation work from test plan definition through sign-off with minimal direction.HardwareHands-on PCB design experience using Cadence Allegro X.Understanding of power electronics layout fundamentals specifically for GaN FETs.Experience working with high-voltage power circuits in a lab environment.SoftwareProficiency with Python/NI TestStand/LabVIEW for automated data collection and test sequence development.Familiarity with validation compliance tracking toolsExperience with Git or equivalent version control systemData AnalysisExperience with Spotfire or equivalent tool for data visualization and analysisExperience generating datasheet-quality characterization plots from dataWorking knowledge of statistical methods for limit validation: distribution analysis, Cpk, and specification capabilityAbout the organizationTI does not make recruiting or hiring decisions based on citizenship, immigration status or national origin. However, if TI determines that information access or export control restrictions based upon applicable laws and regulations would prohibit you from working in this position without first obtaining an export license, TI expressly reserves the right not to seek such a license for you and either offer you a different position that does not require an export license or decline to move forward with your employment.About the companyWhy TI?Engineer your future. We empower our employees to truly own their career and development. Come collaborate with some of the smartest people in the world to shape the future of electronics.We're different by design. Diverse backgrounds and perspectives are what push innovation forward and what make TI stronger. We value each and every voice, and look forward to hearing yours. Meet the people of TIBenefits that benefit you. We offer competitive pay and benefits designed to help you and your family live your best life. Your well-being is important to us. Please find our country-specific benefits hereAbout Texas Instruments Texas Instruments Incorporated (Nasdaq: TXN) is a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures and sells analog and embedded processing chips for markets such as industrial, automotive, data center, personal electronics and communications equipment. At our core, we have a passion to create a better world by making electronics more affordable through semiconductors. This passion is alive today as each generation of innovation builds upon the last to make our technology more reliable, more affordable and lower power, making it possible for semiconductors to go into electronics everywhere. Learn more at TI.com. Texas Instruments is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse, inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, disability, genetic information, national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. If you are interested in this position, please apply to this requisition.