Advantest is seeking a strategic and experienced System Application Engineering Director to lead and develop global application engineering teams supporting key customers in the U.S. semiconductor test market.
This role provides strategic and technical leadership across multiple technology areas, including Power, Analog, and Controller applications on the V93000 platform, as well as Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) technologies through Advantest's CREA subsidiary.
The Director is responsible for driving customer satisfaction, strengthening technical capabilities, supporting business growth, and ensuring effective collaboration across global engineering, sales, research and development, and other cross-functional organizations.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Define and execute the application engineering strategy in alignment with Advantest's business objectives and customer needs.
- Lead and develop global System Application Engineering teams supporting key U.S. customers and strategic business initiatives.
- Establish organizational priorities, operating processes, and technical capabilities to support current and future business requirements.
- Identify opportunities for business growth, improve customer satisfaction, and strengthen Advantest's competitive position in the semiconductor test market.
Customer and Technical Leadership
- Oversee the development and deployment of innovative test solutions across Power, Analog, Controller, and related semiconductor applications.
- Provide strategic technical guidance for V93000 platform applications and SiC/GaN technologies.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, ensuring alignment between customer requirements and Advantest's technical capabilities.
- Partner with Sales, Business Development, Marketing, R&D, and other global organizations to address customer needs and support new business opportunities.
- Ensure effective resolution of complex technical and customer-related challenges.
Organizational and People Development
- Build, lead, and develop high-performing engineering teams through effective coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
- Establish clear organizational structures, roles, and responsibilities to support business priorities.
- Develop talent and succession plans to ensure leadership continuity and long-term organizational effectiveness.
- Promote knowledge sharing, technical development, and collaboration across global engineering teams.
Business and Operational Management
- Oversee departmental headcount planning, resource allocation, and budget management.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators to evaluate organizational performance, customer satisfaction, and operational effectiveness.
- Ensure efficient use of engineering resources and alignment with business priorities.
- Monitor industry developments, customer requirements, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and support strategic planning.
- Provide regular updates to senior leadership on business performance, organizational priorities, and strategic initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field; a master's degree is preferred.
- At least 5 years of experience leading international technical teams in semiconductor automated test equipment (ATE) application engineering, technical support, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience leading customer-facing engineering organizations and delivering measurable business results.
- Strong understanding of semiconductor test systems, application engineering, and customer support environments.
- Proven ability to develop and execute technical and organizational strategies.
- Demonstrated leadership, people management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as business needs require.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting Advantest V93000 test systems and semiconductor applications.
- Familiarity with Power, Analog, Controller, SiC, and GaN technologies.
- Experience leading geographically distributed engineering teams.
- Experience managing departmental budgets, headcount planning, and organizational development.
- Established relationships with semiconductor customers and experience supporting strategic accounts.
Leadership Competencies
- Strategic thinking and business judgment
- Customer focus and relationship management
- Organizational leadership and talent development
- Strong communication and decision-making
- Collaboration across global and cross-functional teams
- Accountability and results orientation
- The actual base pay offered will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, qualifications, geographic location, market data, and internal equity. Compensation decisions are made individually based on the specific role and candidate. Typically, new hires are not placed at the top of the salary range upon hire. In addition to base salary, Advantest provides a competitive total rewards package that may include bonus opportunities, health and welfare benefits, retirement programs, paid time off, and other company-sponsored benefits.
Advantest America Inc. is part of Advantest Corporation, the world's largest provider of automated test equipment (ATE) for the semiconductor industry. The company designs and manufactures cutting-edge testing solutions that help semiconductor manufacturers ensure the quality and performance of their products. Advantest is known for innovation, reliability, and a strong commitment to supporting its customers and employees. Our Purpose & Values: Mission: Improve lives through advanced technologies and customer-focused innovation. Vision: Be the most trusted and valued test solution provider in the semiconductor value chain. Core Values: I- Innovation is our Lifeblood N- Number One is Our Aspiration T- Trust is our Foundation E- Empowerment is Our Motivation G- Global is our Reach R- Respect is our Heart I - Inclusion and Diversity is Our Commitment T- Teamwork is our Approach Y- Yes is Our Attitude Why Join Us At Advantest, innovation starts with people. We're looking for curious, capable, and collaborative individuals ready to shape the future of semiconductor technology. You'll join a global team where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a real impact. We foster an integrity-centered culture, where honesty, inclusion, and respect are the foundation of everything we do. Global Bonus Program: Performance-based bonuses paid twice yearly. 401(k) Plan: Pre-tax retirement savings with company match. Medical, Dental & Vision: Multiple plan options including HMO, PPO, and HSA. Income Protection: Life, disability, and accident insurance at no cost. Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care options. Employee Assistance Program: Free support for personal and work-related issues. Flexible Time Off: Accrual starts at hire, increases with service. Paid Holidays: 13 company holidays annually. Bay Area Target Salary Range: $165,000 - $255,000 DOE
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