Principal Design Engineer - Validation (Burnaby)

Microchip’s Data Center Solutions Business Unit (DCS) delivers industry‑leading performance, reliability, and security in storage controllers, memory controllers, NVMe SSD controllers, PCIe switches, and SAS expanders used in cloud storage, compute data centers, and storage area networks. As a System Validation Engineer you will join a team of world‑class system integrators responsible for the bring‑up, integration, and validation of cutting‑edge System on a Chip (SoC) products for the Data Center Solutions Business Unit. Job Responsibilities - Integrate prototype SoC hardware and firmware into a complete solution, working with emulation platforms, prototype ICs, validation boards, and embedded software to enable functional testing and firmware development. - Develop, execute, and document feature test suites that validate SoC operation, ensure all components perform per design specifications, meet industry requirements, and achieve expected performance. - Work with pre‑silicon FPGA‑based emulation platforms and post‑silicon prototype ICs/SOCs. - Architect, build, and maintain validation infrastructure, including development of boards, FPGAs, embedded software, device drivers, and testbench scripts. - Develop block, subsystem, and system‑level test firmware and scripts, integrating them into best‑in‑class test automation suites. - Lead small technical team activities within your area of expertise. - Architect comprehensive test plans for your area of expertise. - Lead complex test execution and conduct investigations in a laboratory setting, both on‑site and remotely. - Identify and report bugs; collaborate with cross‑expertise teams to isolate, investigate, and resolve issues. - Continuously learn and apply knowledge of the device, system, protocols, and industry standards. - Help grow and train the validation team. - Present technical information effectively to internal and external audiences. Requirements / Qualifications - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science. - 10+ years of relevant industry experience (more junior applicants may be considered for other levels). - Experience leading a small technical team. - Experience in IC and SoC validation. - Experience working with prototype ICs, boards, and hardware infrastructure. - Experience working in a lab environment and knowledge of test equipment and protocol analyzers. - Experience debugging and investigating SoCs using firmware and MIPS debug environments. - Strong knowledge of digital systems and computer architecture. - Strong knowledge of data communications and digital design theory. - Strong knowledge of scripting languages such as Python or Tcl/Tk and proficiency in C/C++ programming. - Demonstrated strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. - Experience defining comprehensive test coverage at sub‑block and system level, utilizing design specifications, feature requirements, and industry standards. - Ability to develop and execute functional validation plans and associated validation software and scripts. - Knowledge of PCIe system architecture and protocol, ability to read and analyze PCIe protocol traces. - Experience in PCIe and/or DDR validation. - Familiarity with CXL, DDR, I2C, and SPI protocols is an asset. - Experience testing and debugging high‑speed SERDES. - SoC performance validation and tuning experience is an asset. - Hands‑on hardware experience with x86‑based systems. - Experience working in Linux and Windows operating system environments. - Thorough knowledge of circuit theory and high‑speed signal fundamentals. - Ability to quickly learn new technologies, protocols, and standards. - Comfortable developing specifications and standards. - Team player working well with peers and cross‑functional groups. - Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Desired Qualifications - Familiarity with FPGA‑based emulation environments; deployment of test coverage for pre‑silicon test is an asset. - Experience in high‑speed digital design, board design, PCB layout, signal integrity concepts, and manufacturing processes is an asset. - Past experience developing and debugging MIPS‑based architecture; programming firmware in C/C++. - Knowledge of protocols such as PCIe, CXL, DDR, NVMe, ONFI, SAS, SATA, I2C, and SPI, and protocol trace debugging. - In‑depth Linux OS architecture and driver knowledge. - Linux or Windows host driver development. - Knowledge of FPGA layout tools and VHDL/Verilog coding. - ThreadX or RTOS knowledge. Travel Time 0% - 25% Pay Range We offer a total compensation package that includes competitive base pay, restricted stock units, quarterly bonus payments, health benefits beginning on the first day, retirement savings plans, and an industry‑leading IESPP program with a six‑month look‑back feature. Annual base salary range: $86,000 - $186,000. The range depends on job location, skills, and experience. Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2pb5k8