Principal Applications Engineer (Silicon Photonics - SiPh)

FormFactor is seeking a Principal Applications Engineer (Silicon Photonics - SiPh) to define technical requirements for advanced optoelectronic test and measurement solutions, validate solutions through testing, and apply applications knowledge to create customer-centric solutions. This role serves as a critical link between customers, Product Marketing, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Field Applications teams, ensuring FormFactor products address emerging market and technology needs., * Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Product Marketing, Manufacturing, and Global Sales organizations to develop innovative measurement solutions for advanced semiconductor applications.

• Serve as the subject matter expert for on-wafer semiconductor device measurements and SiPh test applications, translating customer requirements into product requirements.
• Lead technical definition, application validation, and customer success for new products.
• Design, execute, and analyze complex application experiments to evaluate product performance and customer use cases.
• Develop application methodologies, best practices, and technical documentation to support successful product deployment.
• Create and deliver advanced technical training programs for Field Applications Engineers, Sales teams, customers, and business partners.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across multidisciplinary project teams.

This position is ideal for a highly experienced technical leader with deep expertise in semiconductor device characterization, optical test methodologies, and Silicon Photonics., * Degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Photonics, or a related field.

• Relevant industry experience in optical-system development, photonics, semiconductor equipment, or test and measurement. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience with Silicon Photonics devices and technologies such as waveguides, optical transceivers, photodiodes, VCSELs, beam optics, and integrated photonic circuits.
• Experience in Applications Engineering, Field Applications Engineering, Technical Sales, or customer-facing technical support roles.
• Familiarity with semiconductor wafer probing systems and automated test environments.
• Understanding of semiconductor test methodologies, test automation, and advanced characterization techniques.
• Proficient in developing test scripts in Python and analyzing data in JMP.
• Familiarity with semiconductor processing and advanced packaging.

Skills: Communication, Microsoft Office, Optics, Problem Solving, Python (Programming Language), SAS JMP (Statistical Software), Scripting, Semiconductor Characterization, Silicon Photonics, Statistical Analysis, Statistical Data, Statistics, Training and Development, Troubleshooting

Education & Experience: Minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 3 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work| Required

$94,100.00 - $123,480.00 life insurance, paid time off, 401(k) United States, Oregon, Beaverton Oct 10, 2026, $94,100.00 - $123,480.00

Pay Range Explained: This role in Beaverton, Oregon pays between $94,100.00 and $123,480.00 per year, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You’ll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.

FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a leading provider of essential test and measurement technologies along the full semiconductor product life cycle - from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to qualification and production test. Semiconductor companies rely upon FormFactor’s products and services to accelerate profitability by optimizing device performance and advancing yield knowledge. The company serves customers through its network of facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Rooted in our core values - Focus on the Customer, Ownership & Accountability, Respectfully & Effectively Communicate, and Motivate & Develop People - we foster an environment where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Everyone can make an impact here. Whether it’s improving products, supporting customers, or positively influencing peers and the community, the contributions of our people matter.