Role Overview for Director of R&D, New Product Introduction with a Semiconductor Firm – San Antonio, TX
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the semiconductor industry to recruit a visionary and strategic Director of R&D, New Product Introduction (NPI). Based in their state-of-the-art facility in San Antonio, TX, this executive role is a cornerstone of the company’s long-term growth and technology leadership strategy. The successful candidate will be a driving force behind the innovation engine, responsible for leading a world-class team of engineers and scientists to bring next-generation semiconductor products from initial concept through to successful high-volume manufacturing.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of technology in critical markets such as automotive, communications, and industrial IoT. You will be at the helm of the entire NPI lifecycle, ensuring that our client’s products not only meet but exceed the demanding performance, quality, and reliability standards of the industry. You will foster a culture of relentless innovation, technical excellence, and cross-functional collaboration. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s product roadmap, competitive positioning, and profitability. If you are a seasoned R&D leader with a deep background in semiconductor product development and a passion for turning cutting-edge ideas into market-leading realities, we invite you to explore this career-defining role.
The position requires a leader who can operate at both a strategic and tactical level, translating high-level business objectives into actionable R&D plans and project milestones. You will be the primary interface between the R&D organization and other key business functions, including marketing, sales, operations, and quality assurance. Your ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders, and communicate complex technical concepts to a diverse audience will be paramount to your success. This role is not just about managing projects; it’s about building a legacy of innovation and leading a team that is shaping the future of the global semiconductor industry.
Key Responsibilities of Director of R&D, New Product Introduction with a Semiconductor Firm – San Antonio, TX
Strategic R&D Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D and NPI strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business goals and technology roadmap. Champion a vision for product innovation and technical excellence across the organization.
End-to-End NPI Process Ownership
Oversee the entire New Product Introduction lifecycle, from ideation, feasibility studies, and architectural definition to design, prototyping, characterization, qualification, and seamless transition to high-volume manufacturing (HVM).
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performance, multidisciplinary team of R&D engineers and scientists. Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages creativity, accountability, and continuous professional growth. Manage talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key integration point, working closely with Product Marketing to define product requirements, with Operations to ensure Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and yield optimization, and with Quality to establish rigorous reliability and qualification standards.
Technology Roadmapping and Innovation
Stay at the forefront of semiconductor technology trends, materials science, and process innovations. Drive the evaluation and adoption of new technologies and methodologies to maintain a competitive edge. Champion the creation and protection of intellectual property (IP).
Program and Project Management
Implement and refine best-in-class project management methodologies (e.g., Phase-Gate processes) to ensure NPI projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to specification. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and drive accountability.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of capital, resources, and personnel to strategic priorities. Provide accurate forecasting and reporting on project expenditures and resource utilization.
Risk Management and Mitigation
Proactively identify technical, schedule, and resource risks throughout the NPI process. Develop and implement robust mitigation plans to minimize impact and ensure successful project outcomes.
Stakeholder Communication
Regularly communicate program status, risks, and milestones to the executive leadership team and other key stakeholders. Prepare and deliver compelling technical and business presentations.
Customer Engagement
Partner with the business development and sales teams to engage with key customers, understand their future needs, and align the technology roadmap accordingly. Act as a technical authority during critical customer interactions.
Requirements for the Director of R&D, New Product Introduction with a Semiconductor Firm – San Antonio, TX
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a closely related technical field is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within the semiconductor industry, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity managing R&D, product development, or NPI teams.
NPI Expertise
A proven and demonstrable track record of successfully leading multiple complex semiconductor products from concept to high-volume manufacturing. Deep familiarity with structured product development processes and phase-gate methodologies.
Technical Acumen
Deep expertise in semiconductor device physics, wafer fabrication processes (e.g., lithography, etch, deposition, CMP), IC design, packaging technologies, and reliability testing. Experience with analog, mixed-signal, or power management ICs is highly desirable.
Process and Methodologies
Strong understanding of Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Test (DFT), Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), and advanced failure analysis techniques.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a large technical organization. Proven ability to build and lead high-performing, collaborative teams.
Strategic Thinking
Ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and translate business objectives into a coherent technology and product development strategy.
Communication and Influence
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills. The ability to articulate a compelling vision and influence decision-making at all levels of a global, matrixed organization, from individual engineers to the C-suite.
Business Acumen
Strong financial literacy with experience in budget management, resource planning, and making sound business cases for technology investments.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term incentive package (stock options/RSUs).
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you secure your financial future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and comprehensive parental leave programs.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth with opportunities for continued education, tuition reimbursement, and attendance at key industry conferences.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates to ensure a smooth transition to the vibrant San Antonio area.
On-Site Amenities
Access to a modern campus featuring a fitness center, collaborative workspaces, and an on-site café.
How to Apply
Are you ready to take the next step in your career and lead a pivotal function at a top-tier semiconductor company? We encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners specializes in connecting elite talent with industry-leading organizations.
To be considered for this role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership accomplishments.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
