Role Overview for VP of Device Engineering – Silicon Valley, CA
JRG Partners is seeking an exceptional and visionary Vice President of Device Engineering to spearhead innovation and lead our client’s advanced device development efforts in the heart of Silicon Valley, California. This critical executive leadership role demands a seasoned professional with a profound understanding of semiconductor physics, device fabrication, and a proven track record of bringing revolutionary products to market. The successful candidate will be instrumental in defining the technological roadmap, driving R&D initiatives, and cultivating a high-performing engineering organization that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the ever-evolving world of microelectronics and advanced device technologies.
As VP of Device Engineering, you will be at the forefront of strategic planning and execution, translating complex technical challenges into actionable engineering solutions. You will navigate the intricate landscape of device design, characterization, and reliability, ensuring that our client’s products not only meet but exceed industry standards for performance, efficiency, and robustness. This role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of next-generation devices, working with a diverse team of brilliant engineers, scientists, and product leaders. You will be responsible for fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, where groundbreaking ideas are encouraged and meticulously brought to fruition.
Your leadership will directly impact the company’s competitive advantage and market position within the highly dynamic global technology sector. Expect to engage with cross-functional teams, external partners, and key stakeholders to align device engineering strategies with overall business objectives and market demands. The scope of this role is broad, encompassing everything from foundational research and materials science to advanced packaging and high-volume manufacturing considerations. This is more than a technical leadership role; it is an opportunity to be a true architect of technological progress.
Key Responsibilities of VP of Device Engineering – Silicon Valley, CA
Strategic Leadership & Roadmap Definition
Define, articulate, and execute the long-term device engineering strategy and technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with overall company vision, product pipeline, and market opportunities. Identify emerging technologies and trends, such as those discussed by the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), and integrate them into strategic planning.
R&D and Innovation Management
Lead and oversee all aspects of device research, design, development, characterization, and validation. Drive groundbreaking innovation in device architectures, materials, and processes to achieve superior performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Team Building & Mentorship
Recruit, mentor, and develop a world-class team of device engineers, physicists, and materials scientists. Foster a collaborative, high-performance, and results-driven engineering culture that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and professional growth.
Technical Excellence & Execution
Ensure the highest standards of technical rigor, experimental design, data analysis, and documentation. Oversee the entire device development lifecycle from concept to mass production, addressing challenges related to yield, reliability, and manufacturability.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with product management, manufacturing, process engineering, quality assurance, and sales teams to ensure seamless integration of device technologies into end products and successful market launch.
Intellectual Property & Patents
Drive the creation and protection of intellectual property through strategic patent filings and trade secret management, solidifying the company’s technological leadership.
Budget & Resource Management
Manage departmental budgets, resources, and project timelines effectively, ensuring optimal allocation of capital and personnel to achieve strategic objectives.
External Partnerships & Foundry Relations
Establish and maintain strong relationships with external research institutions, academic partners, and semiconductor foundries to leverage external expertise and manufacturing capabilities.
Quality & Reliability
Implement robust methodologies for device reliability testing, failure analysis, and quality control to ensure products meet stringent industry standards and customer expectations.
Industry Representation
Represent the company at industry conferences, symposiums, and technical forums, contributing to the broader scientific community and enhancing the company’s reputation as an innovator.
Requirements for the VP of Device Engineering – Silicon Valley, CA
Education
A Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related technical field from a top-tier university is highly preferred. A Master’s degree with exceptional relevant experience may be considered.
Experience
Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in device engineering within the semiconductor industry, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director or VP level) managing large, complex engineering teams.
Deep Technical Expertise
Extensive hands-on and theoretical knowledge in semiconductor device physics, device architecture, fabrication processes (CMOS, advanced nodes, novel materials), characterization techniques, and reliability engineering. Experience with specific device types such as power devices, memory, optoelectronics, MEMS, or advanced sensors is highly advantageous.
Product Lifecycle Management
Proven track record of successfully leading multiple device development projects from initial concept through design, tape-out, qualification, and high-volume manufacturing.
Leadership & Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to build, inspire, and lead high-performing technical teams. Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities. Strong emotional intelligence and ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, technical teams, and external partners. Proven ability to influence and collaborate across functional boundaries.
Business Acumen
Strong understanding of the semiconductor market, competitive landscape, intellectual property strategies, and the financial implications of engineering decisions.
Innovation Driver
A passion for innovation and a history of contributing to significant technological advancements or patents.
Foundry & Ecosystem Experience
Experience working with external foundries and navigating the semiconductor supply chain ecosystem.
Location
Ability to work on-site in Silicon Valley, CA, and travel as required to engage with partners, customers, and industry events.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands that attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent requires a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package. As the VP of Device Engineering, you will be offered an exceptional compensation structure that includes:
Competitive Base Salary
A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards for an executive leadership role in Silicon Valley.
Performance-Based Bonuses
Significant annual performance bonuses tied to individual and company achievements, recognizing your direct impact on our success.
Equity/Stock Options
Substantial equity participation or stock options, aligning your long-term success with that of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, with low out-of-pocket costs.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with generous company matching contributions to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
Extensive vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, promoting work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
Comprehensive relocation package for candidates moving to the Silicon Valley area.
Professional Development
Opportunities for ongoing executive education, leadership training, and attendance at industry conferences to ensure continuous growth.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Access to cutting-edge labs, equipment, and a collaborative work environment designed for innovation.
Company Perks
Executive car allowance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance programs, and other benefits designed to support your well-being.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary leader with a passion for pushing the boundaries of device engineering and are ready to make a significant impact in a dynamic, high-growth environment, we invite you to apply. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of technology in Silicon Valley.
Please submit your comprehensive resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and leadership philosophy to JRG Partners. We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
For more information on executive opportunities in the technology sector, please visit our Technology Executive Search practice area page. We look forward to hearing from you.
