Systems Architect – Senior Principal Engineer (Semiconductor Domain)

Systems Architect – Senior Principal Engineer (Semiconductor Domain)

Location: Newport Beach, California (Onsite)
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Semiconductor Systems Architect – Senior Principal Engineer (SPE) with strong expertise in High-Speed Physical Layer (PHY) technologies used in advanced networking systems.

The ideal candidate will have deep system-level understanding of high-speed communication components, including Laser Drivers, Transimpedance Amplifiers (TIAs), Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), and Signal Equalizers used in next-generation optical and networking products.

This role focuses on defining future semiconductor products, working closely with engineering teams, customers, and industry standards bodies to drive innovation and product strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Define next-generation semiconductor products including specifications, features, and system-level requirements based on customer needs, market trends, competitive analysis, and technology roadmaps.
• Collaborate closely with Research and Development (R&D) teams throughout the product lifecycle—from concept definition to design, validation, and production release.
• Develop technical documentation and contribute to industry standardization efforts to align new product definitions with evolving standards.
• Participate in global industry standardization organizations such as:
  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
  • Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF)
  • Small Form Factor (SFF) Committee
  • Peripheral Component Interconnect Special Interest Group (PCI-SIG)
• Engage with key customers to understand technical challenges, gather requirements, and promote new product concepts.
• Support cross-functional alignment between marketing, engineering, and product management teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in semiconductor product definition, system architecture, or standardization roles.
• Strong experience with high-speed networking and optical communication systems.
• Deep understanding of components such as:
  • Laser Drivers
  • Transimpedance Amplifiers (TIA)
  • Digital Signal Processors (DSP)
  • Signal Equalizers
• Strong knowledge of analog and mixed-signal circuit design concepts.
• Experience working with global standards bodies and contributing to technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to interact across engineering, leadership, and customer teams.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while meeting project deadlines and business goals.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%, including international travel.