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!
Job description
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 POSITIONS
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 RESPONSABILITIES
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.
Availability
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.
Conditions of employment
- Duration of contract is 2 years Temporary
- A job of 38-40 hours per week.
- A salary based on Scale 12 of the CAO for Dutch Universities with a salary between €5705 - €7297 gross per month based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
- An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
- The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
- Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave
- Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof. Dr. Said Hamdioui, via S.Hamdioui@tudelft.nl
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 17 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- 1-page Motivation letter tailored to the position you are applying
- Your CV
You can address your application to Prof. Dr. Said Hamdioui.
#EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named POPCORN, with project number 01213161, within program HE-EIC
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
- Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
