Director - Lab Design & Operations, Design Enablement Gateway

Natcast (short for The National Center for the Advancement of Semiconductor Technology) is a new, purpose-built, non-profit entity created to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) consortium, established by the CHIPS Act of the U.S. government.

Working at Natcast represents an opportunity to help extend America’s leadership in semiconductor technology, significantly reduce the time and cost of moving from idea to commercialization, and build and sustain a semiconductor workforce development ecosystem.

These efforts to advance semiconductor technology and seed new industries built on the capabilities of a wide range of advanced chips hold the potential to benefit the country and the world for generations to come.

In this role you will architect and oversee state-of-the-art semiconductor laboratory operations at Natcast's Design and Collaboration Facility, creating world-class environments that enable breakthrough semiconductor innovation and testing. 

Every day you will optimize laboratory infrastructure and operations, ensuring cutting-edge equipment and processes support advanced semiconductor research while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency. 

To thrive in this role you must combine deep electronics laboratory expertise with operational leadership capabilities, demonstrating both technical mastery and strategic planning skills while advancing America's semiconductor testing capabilities. 

Responsibilities: 

• Lead comprehensive design and implementation of advanced semiconductor testing laboratories, including floor planning, power distribution, cooling systems, and specialized infrastructure 

• Develop and execute laboratory operations strategies that maximize equipment utilization while ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards 

• Create and maintain sophisticated test environments supporting multiple technology platforms, including RF, mixed-signal, and high-speed digital testing capabilities 

• Oversee procurement, installation, and qualification of advanced laboratory equipment, ensuring alignment with research requirements and industry standards 

• Establish and implement laboratory safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and operational guidelines that ensure optimal facility performance 

• Direct calibration programs and quality control measures for all laboratory equipment and testing systems 

• Manage laboratory budgets, including equipment acquisition, maintenance contracts, and operational expenses 

• Lead cross-functional collaboration with research teams to align laboratory capabilities with evolving project requirements 

• Develop and maintain documentation systems for laboratory procedures, equipment specifications, and safety protocols 

• Guide continuous improvement initiatives in laboratory operations and testing methodologies 

• Oversee training programs for laboratory personnel on equipment operation and safety procedures 

• Coordinate with facilities management to ensure proper environmental controls and infrastructure support 

Required Skills and Experience: 

• MS in Electrical Engineering or related field with 15+ years of electronics laboratory management experience 

• Demonstrated expertise in designing and operating advanced semiconductor testing facilities 

• Extensive experience with laboratory equipment procurement, installation, and maintenance 

• Strong background in laboratory safety protocols and regulatory compliance 

• Proven track record managing complex laboratory operations and support teams 

• Experience with automated test equipment and measurement systems 

• Deep understanding of power distribution and cooling requirements for electronics laboratories 

• Expertise in laboratory information management systems 

• Strong project management and budgeting capabilities 

• Excellence in cross-functional team leadership 

• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement operational procedures 

• Track record of successful laboratory design and build-out projects 

Bonus Points if you have the Following: 

• Experience with cleanroom operations 

• RF/microwave testing expertise 

• Knowledge of environmental testing systems 

• Background in reliability testing 

• Experience with laboratory automation 

• Safety certification credentials 

• Experience with ISO standards 

• Semiconductor industry background 

Ready to build world-class semiconductor testing laboratories? Join our mission-driven team and develop the facilities that will enable next-generation semiconductor innovation. Your expertise will help establish the testing infrastructure that accelerates America's semiconductor capabilities. Connect with our talent acquisition team to learn more. 

Natcast is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any protected attribute. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process due to a disability, please let us know. 

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