Post Silicon Validation and Test Manager

Efficient is developing the world’s most energy-efficient general-purpose computer processor. Efficient’s patented technology uses 100x less energy than state of the art commercially available ultra-low-power processors and is programmable using standard high-level programming languages and AI/ML frameworks. This level of efficiency makes perpetual, pervasive intelligence possible: run AI/ML continuously on a AA battery for 5-10 years. Our platform’s unprecedented level of efficiency enables IoT devices to intelligently capture and curate first-party data to drive the next major computing revolution

Efficient is pioneering the development of next-generation programmable processor products, designed to deliver breakthrough performance and efficiency for high-performance computing applications. We are seeking an experienced Post Silicon Validation and Test Manager to drive the post-silicon validation, characterization, test and productization of our cutting-edge processor architectures.

As a Post Silicon Validation and Test Manager, you will own the end-to-end validation and test strategy for Efficient’s programmable processor products. You will be responsible for creating and executing a comprehensive new product introduction (NPI) plan, working with external silicon validation and test engineering vendors, and collaborating closely with internal design, verification, and manufacturing teams. This role is highly cross-functional and critical to ensuring that Efficient’s products meet rigorous performance, quality, and reliability standards from first silicon bring-up through high-volume manufacturing.

Note: This role is NOT software QA or system test.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and drive a comprehensive NPI plan for silicon validation, test-flow, wafer sort, characterization, and productization of Efficient’s programmable processors.
• Manage relationships with silicon validation vendors, including defining scope, ensuring deliverables, and monitoring performance.
• Partner with internal design and verification teams during pre-silicon to define test structures, features, and methodologies required for successful silicon validation.
• Lead the post-silicon validation process, from first power-on through to volume production.
• Define and implement silicon validation processes and methodologies, ensuring repeatability, coverage, and robustness.
• Debug complex silicon issues involving digital, analog, and timing domains, working cross-functionally with architects, designers, and verification engineers.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to silicon validation engineers and influence broader organizational practices around validation and test.
• Deliver detailed documentation, reports, and technical presentations to stakeholders and executive teams.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of proven, hands-on experience in silicon validation, test development and silicon product engineering, and manufacturing processes.
• 3+ years leading validation engineering teams with demonstrated leadership and mentoring skills.
• Direct experience taking a processor/SoC from first silicon to volume production through entire manufacturing life-cycle.
• Demonstrated experience in post-silicon bring-up, validation, characterization, test hardware and software development.
• Hands-on experience working with silicon validation vendors, test hardware and test software development vendors.
• In-depth experience executing or supervising the execution of silicon production qualification processes, such as ESD, Latchup, HTOL, BHAST
• Extensive pre-silicon experience collaborating with design and verification teams to define test structures and features.
• Excellent written, verbal, and technical communication skills.

Preferred:

• Strong expertise in processor architectures, including timing, analog, and digital requirements.
• Strong silicon debugging skills, with ability to isolate and resolve complex issues across domains.
• Strong network and prior working relationships with leading silicon validation vendors.
• Track record of delivering successful NPI projects in semiconductor startups or fast-paced environments.

We offer a competitive salary for this role, generally ranging from $190,000 to $220,000, along with meaningful equity and comprehensive benefits. The final compensation package will be based on your experience and location, with some flexibility to ensure we align with the right candidate.

Why Join Efficient?

Efficient offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including 401K match, company-paid benefits, equity program, paid parental leave, and flexibility. We are committed to personal and professional development and strive to grow together as people and as a company.