Head of Product Development/ Director Engineering

Job description

Lead the future of Silicon! Hiring a Head of Engineering (10+ yrs) for next-gen EDA & semiconductor test tools. MSc/PhD, C++, & EDA/DFT experts: join our startup & have an immediate impact!

The POPCORN project aims to revolutionize semiconductor testing by developing a cutting-edge Device-Aware Testing (DAT) platform for emerging memories such as STT-MRAMs and RRAMs. By integrating physical defect modeling directly into the test flow, POPCORN enhances outgoing chip quality and reliability while optimizing overall test costs. The platform enables faster and more accurate diagnosis and yield learning, reduces in-field failures in various critical applications, and strengthens Europe’s position in the global semiconductor industry through scalable, industry-ready solutions.

Funded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) Transition program, POPCORN is designed to bridge the “valley of death” between laboratory-validated research and a market-ready industrial solution. Over the course of the project, we will advance from a TRL 4 proof-of-concept to a fully functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP): a high-performance, automated Computer-Aided Test (CAT) suite which can be seamlessly integrated into standard EDA flows. Beyond software development, a key project outcome is the establishment of the startup’s core team: a high-caliber, entrepreneurial group where domain collaborate with business-oriented professionals to create an investment-ready commercial venture.

Current open position

We are expanding the POPCORN team and are seeking a motivated Head of Product Development/ Director Engineering (10+ years of experience) who are experienced in translating R&D results into robust, scalable software tools that can evolve into an MVP and eventually be integrated into major EDA ecosystems.

Role and responsibilities

The selected candidate will:

• Lead the design, architecture, and development of prototype and product versions of our semiconductor test tools.
• Translate research algorithms into production-grade, maintainable software.
• Build and manage a small high-performing engineering team (including hiring or coordinating external developers when needed).
• Ensure the tools are compatible with, or easily integrable into, existing EDA flows.
• Collaborate closely with the R&D team to prioritize features, validate the MVP, and ensure technical feasibility.
• Define and maintain the technical roadmap, oversee code quality, and manage release processes.
• Contribute to overall technology strategy and help shape the company’s long-term product direction.

Job requirements

Background

• MSc/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science (or equivalent experience).

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in semiconductor testing, Design for Test (DFT), Automated Test Equipment (ATE), or related EDA technologies.
• Solid understanding of chip design and test flows and their integration challenges.

Technical skills

• Proficiency in C++.
• Familiarity with EDA tool APIs and data formats (e.g., Synopsys, Cadence, Siemens EDA).
• Experience in fault modeling, test and diagnosis algorithms, yield learning, software architecture, and tool integration.
• Proven track record in turning R&D outcomes into usable, scalable products.

Soft skills

• Startup mindset: hands-on, pragmatic, and comfortable in a fast-moving, evolving environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Capable of balancing innovation and productization, maintaining focus on delivery while handling complexity.

Additional context

#EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named POPCORN, within program HE-EIC.