Hardware Engineer

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Hardware Engineer or Architect to join our team in Hillsboro, OR specializing in technical analysis of AI and datacenter hardware.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed architectural analysis of AI and datacenter hardware — GPUs, ASICs, CPUs, custom accelerators, high-speed I/O, memory subsystems, and their packaging
• Drive end-to-end teardown and characterization; operate the analytical toolchain and direct more specialized work as needed
• Identify competitive advantages, disadvantages, and generational changes in hardware design, packaging, and system-level decisions
• Apply Design Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO) and System Technology Co-Optimization (STCO) reasoning to interpret architectural trade-offs and process-design interactions
• Co-author technical research published by SemiAnalysis — physical observation, cross-industry context, and argument all in your words
• Contribute to the growth and expansion of the lab's capabilities and output; bring your unique skills to a strong and expansive team

Requirements

• 3+ years in hardware architecture, product design, silicon engineering, post-silicon debug, or closely equivalent, with genuine exposure to leading-edge parts
• Strong functional knowledge of AI and datacenter hardware architecture (GPUs, CPUs, accelerators) on advanced process nodes
• Direct experience in physical or electrical failure analysis, fault isolation, device debug, or related physical root-cause work
• Understanding of Design Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO) principles
• Hands-on experience with, or strong aptitude for, semiconductor sample preparation and analytical tools — precision polishing, FIB, SEM, and related electron-beam, X-ray, and compositional methods

Nice to Have

• Product design or manufacturing R&D in advanced packaging (2.5D / 3D, high-speed interconnects, hybrid bonding)
• Broad understanding of advanced manufacturing across CMOS logic, memory, and emerging technologies
• Interpreting micrographs and electrical measurements to infer design and process characteristics
• Comfort developing plans for physical and electrical FA toolchains
• Python for data analysis and engineering tasks
• Statistical and process-control literacy