Director of Software Engineering

Director, Software Engineering – Semiconductor Test Systems Lake Forest, CA | Onsite

Our client, a global leader in semiconductor test hardware and solutions, is seeking a highly technical Director of Software Engineering to lead its Hardware System Integration, Handler, and Test Engineering software teams. In this role, you will drive precise, pragmatic execution across a fast-moving, 24/7 operation, guiding a talented engineering organization through a major software platform upgrade as the company expands its U.S. and global footprint. The ideal candidate blends hands-on software and hardware depth with proven experience managing multi-layered engineering teams.

What YOU get to DO at this growing company:

Lead execution of the company’s next-generation software platform upgrade, a major shift across its software ecosystem, from planning through production deployment.

Direct software integration across testers, handlers, thermal systems, PLCs, and firmware that supports high-volume chip testing and material handling.

Stay hands‑on in debugging, architecture, and complex technical problem‑solving, setting the technical bar for the team.

Lead and develop a team of about 40 engineers in Lake Forest, plus global teams across additional locations, including managers, technical leads, and subject matter experts.

Turn engineering strategy into clear plans, milestones, and delivery schedules, and hold teams accountable to commitments.

Define how production and test data is captured, tracked, and used across the organization.

Bring engineering and test teams together so they work efficiently toward shared goals.

Partner with Product Management, Hardware, Firmware, QA, Production, and Support to keep releases and priorities aligned.

Keep senior leadership continuously informed on progress, risks, and issues, and present technical and readiness reviews to internal and customer stakeholders.

Drive innovation, process improvement, and the adoption of AI‑assisted development and testing.

What you NEED to SUCCEED in this challenging role:

15+ years of software engineering experience with a strong software focus and an adjacent hardware background, and a solid understanding of material handling or complex hardware/software systems.

Engineering management experience leading multi‑layered teams (managers and supervisors), at the Director or Senior Manager level.

Hands‑on experience with the Microsoft technology stack, with .NET/C# as the core framework, including platform migration or modernization.

Highly technical, with a pragmatic, execution‑first mindset and a focus on precise delivery ahead of long‑range strategy.

Strong command of schedules, dependencies, and delivery, and the ability to give a large team clear direction.

Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to keep executives informed and engaged.

Comfortable moving quickly in a high‑growth environment.

Willingness to work onsite five days a week in Lake Forest, CA.

Preferred:

semiconductor equipment‑control software, GEM/SECS, handlers, burn‑in or ATE systems, and experience leading teams across the U.S. and international locations.

What’s in it for you at this industry‑leading company?

A leadership opportunity at a pivotal moment, with a strong bench of top‑tier technical talent already in place.

Real ownership of a high‑visibility platform transition that shapes the company’s future.

A performance‑based path for advancement, with a company that promotes quickly.

Work in a fast‑paced, innovative culture at the center of the semiconductor value chain.

Enjoy a performance‑based bonus paid twice yearly

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