Mechanical Engineering Technical Lead (Handler Integration)

Advantest America, a leading Semiconductor Test and Measurement Company, is seeking innovative and self-driven individuals to join our US Research & Venture Team. This team is part of a global initiative to integrate advances in electrical, mechanical, thermal, software, and AI/Machine Learning technologies into our test and measurement solutions across the semiconductor value chain.

We are seeking a highly experienced Mechanical Engineer to perform a broad range of complex engineering functions related to the design, testing, and evaluation of mechanical, optical, and thermal systems for semiconductor testing. This includes systems with semiconductors, photonics, and embedded devices. As a Mechanical Engineering Lead on the Research & Venture Team you will work collaboratively with other Advantest technology groups, Business Units, partners, and suppliers to develop and integrate advanced mechanical technologies into Advantest's automated test systems.

Your responsibilities will include conducting feasibility studies, developing engineering prototypes and testing new and modified designs. You will be assigned independent mechanical design projects, allowing for innovation and technical leadership. You will be involved in product development teams, providing direction and training to junior staff and contractors. Additionally, you may address field issues and provide guidance to field teams.

This position is based at our headquarters in San Jose, CA, and requires periodic travel for customer visits and collaboration.

• Develop and implement mechanical engineering designs for new semiconductor test systems and components, including cooling solutions for electronics.
• Perform mechanical and thermal design and analysis of components such as sockets, interposers, heat sinks, and pedestals.
• Conduct integration testing, qualifications, and hands-on evaluation of prototype systems and sub-assemblies.
• Create and manage test specifications and evaluation protocols, initiate engineering change order requests.
• Interpret functional test results and present findings to senior technical staff.
• Present designs during design and customer reviews.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality assurance, and technical support teams to establish functional specifications and select suppliers for components and assemblies.
• Provide guidance to lower-level staff, recommending and designing innovations, improved methods, tools, and processes.
• Participate in the preparation of patent applications and memos of invention for trade secrets.
• Act as a customer contact on selective technical matters and analyze customer requirements.
• Identify risk areas and optimization opportunities.
• Take on project ownership and management; determine technology requirements and develop strategies.
• Drive design completion, provide design inputs, and work closely with external technology partners on projects.
• Create test plans, procure necessary collaterals, and oversee test execution.
• Maintain project schedules, including keeping the Gantt chart current and ensuring effective handoffs to Applications, Design, and Manufacturing.
• Conduct top-level tolerance analysis and function as an expert consultant when needed.
• May be assigned independent mechanical design projects and all other duties and tasks as required.