Hardware Lab Engineer

Astera Labs•San Jose, CA

6d•$160,000 - $230,000

About The Position

Astera Labs Inc. is seeking an experienced and self-driven Hardware Lab Engineer to join our dynamic team in developing world class connectivity products for AI infrastructure. This role will work closely with firmware, system validation, quality, and product engineers to support silicon bring-up, characterization, and debug activities through hands-on lab execution. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of circuits, hands-on experience with PCBAs and silicon test environments, and the ability to work on complex, open-ended tasks with minimal oversight.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
5-12+ years of hands-on experience in lab environments supporting silicon validation or hardware development
Proficiency with high-speed test equipment (oscilloscopes, protocol analyzers, BERTs, multimeters)
Experience with high-speed interface testing (PCIe, CXL, DDR, Ethernet, or SerDes)
Strong programming skills in Python for test automation
Familiarity with Linux operating systems and command-line tools
Demonstrated experience coordinating with third-party testing laboratories and managing logistics, including sample shipping, chain of custody, and scheduling
Strong organizational skills for managing multiple RMA cases simultaneously and prioritizing based on severity/impact

Nice To Haves

Experience with post-silicon validation of ASICs, SoCs, or Retimer/PHY products
Knowledge of analog/mixed-signal circuit testing and debugging techniques
Experience with JTAG, I2C, SPI, and other embedded interfaces
Familiarity with PCB design, schematic reading, and signal integrity concepts
Knowledge of data center systems architecture (servers, AI platforms, networking equipment)
Understanding of ATE (Automated Test Equipment) systems and production test methodologies
Experience with defect screening methodologies including visual inspection, electrical testing, and acoustic imaging
Experience with complete RMA lifecycle management from intake through root cause analysis and corrective action
Knowledge of common semiconductor failure modes and failure analysis techniques including die attach inspection, delamination detection, void analysis, and crack identification
Experience with formal compliance testing and industry standards

Responsibilities

Setup and maintain test environments for silicon validation and characterization.
Configure and update hardware, software, firmware, and applications.
Replicate BKCs.
Conduct hands-on testing of silicon devices including PCIe Gen5/6/7, CXL, Ethernet, and other high-speed interfaces
Install and configure servers, including FW, BIOS, OS, and network
RMA intake/triage: inspection, electrical verification, screening (including CSAM inspection), and prioritization
Manage logistics and communications with external labs
Organize, track, and distribute lab equipment, hardware, and peripherals
Ad hoc PCBA rework and soldering of fine-pitch SMD components
Develop, document, and maintain lab procedures