Position: Senior Signal Integrity Engineer
Location: Santa Clara, CA
We are seeking a Signal Integrity Engineer to support the design, characterization, and qualification of high-speed RF coaxial and twinaxial cable assemblies used in next-generation data center and networking interconnects. This role combines hands-on measurement work (VNA, TDR, BERT) with simulation and cross-functional collaboration to ensure cable and connector systems meet demanding electrical performance targets at data rates up to 224G/448G PAM4.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform S-parameter measurements (VNA) and time-domain reflectometry (TDR) on coax and twinax cable assemblies to characterize insertion loss, return loss, crosstalk, and impedance discontinuities
- Conduct BERT-based bit error rate testing and eye-diagram analysis to validate signal integrity margins across cable/connector interfaces
- Support 3D EM simulation (HFSS, CST, or similar) of cable terminations, connector interfaces, and cartridge assemblies to correlate simulated vs. measured performance
- Drive root-cause analysis on SI failures (e.g., echo/reflection issues, lane failures, mechanical-to-electrical correlation) and recommend design or process corrective actions
- Collaborate with mechanical and manufacturing engineering on cable construction, termination geometry, connector mating interfaces, and material selection (dielectrics, shielding, lubrication) as they affect electrical performance
- Support qualification test plans and re-qualification workflows, including differential pair testing, leg-line S-parameter rechecks, and reliability correlation studies (e.g., Tlife testing)
- Develop and maintain test fixtures, automation scripts, and data analysis pipelines (Python/MATLAB) for high-throughput characterization
- Present findings and design recommendations to internal stakeholders and customers, including executive-level summaries of qualification status and risk
- Stay current with industry standards (IEEE 802.3, OIF-CEI) and channel modeling methodologies for next-gen data rates
Required Qualifications
- B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering Technology, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in signal integrity, RF/microwave engineering, or high-speed interconnect design
- Hands-on experience with VNA, TDR/TDT, and BERT test equipment
- Strong understanding of transmission line theory, impedance matching, and high-speed channel design (112G/224G NRZ/PAM4)
- Proficiency with S-parameter analysis tools and EM simulation software (HFSS, ADS, or equivalent)
- Working knowledge of Python or MATLAB for data analysis and test automation
- Familiarity with cable/connector construction (coax, twinax, differential pair) and manufacturing processes
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with copper cable qualification for 400G/800G+ applications
- Familiarity with mechanical float/guide-pin interfaces and connector mating force analysis
- Experience with large-scale data analytics (Excel/Power BI/Python pipelines) for cross-vendor quality comparisons
- IEEE EMC/SI community involvement or publications
- Experience supporting customer-facing technical reviews or program-level qualification gates
The base salary range for this position is $95,000 to $150,000. In determining rate of pay, Amphenol considers a variety of nondiscriminatory factors, including but not limited to geographic location, relevant industry experience, qualifications, skills, and education. It would be rare for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for a given role. Base salary is one facet of Amphenol's total rewards package which includes participation in our comprehensive benefits program with medical, dental, and vision benefits effective day 1, vacation, sick leave, personal days, paid holidays, life insurance, short/long term disability, and matching 401K.