Director of Software Engineering

Director, Software Engineering – Semiconductor Test Systems

Lake Forest, CA | Onsite

Our client, a global leader in semiconductor test hardware and solutions, is seeking a highly technical Director of Software Engineering to lead its Hardware System Integration, Handler, and Test Engineering software teams. In this role, you will drive precise, pragmatic execution across a fast-moving, 24/7 operation, guiding a talented engineering organization through a major software platform upgrade as the company expands its U.S. and global footprint. The ideal candidate blends hands-on software and hardware depth with proven experience managing multi-layered engineering teams.

What YOU get to DO at this growing company:

• Lead execution of the company’s next-generation software platform upgrade, a major shift across its software ecosystem, from planning through production deployment.
• Direct software integration across testers, handlers, thermal systems, PLCs, and firmware that supports high-volume chip testing and material handling.
• Stay hands-on in debugging, architecture, and complex technical problem-solving, setting the technical bar for the team.
• Lead and develop a team of about 40 engineers in Lake Forest, plus global teams across additional locations, including managers, technical leads, and subject matter experts.
• Turn engineering strategy into clear plans, milestones, and delivery schedules, and hold teams accountable to commitments.
• Define how production and test data is captured, tracked, and used across the organization.
• Bring engineering and test teams together so they work efficiently toward shared goals.
• Partner with Product Management, Hardware, Firmware, QA, Production, and Support to keep releases and priorities aligned.
• Keep senior leadership continuously informed on progress, risks, and issues, and present technical and readiness reviews to internal and customer stakeholders.
• Drive innovation, process improvement, and the adoption of AI-assisted development and testing.

What you NEED to SUCCEED in this challenging role:

• 15+ years of software engineering experience with a strong software focus and an adjacent hardware background, and a solid understanding of material handling or complex hardware/software systems.
• Engineering management experience leading multi-layered teams (managers and supervisors), at the Director or Senior Manager level.
• Hands-on experience with the Microsoft technology stack, with .NET/C# as the core framework, including platform migration or modernization.
• Highly technical, with a pragmatic, execution-first mindset and a focus on precise delivery ahead of long-range strategy.
• Strong command of schedules, dependencies, and delivery, and the ability to give a large team clear direction.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to keep executives informed and engaged.
• Comfortable moving quickly in a high-growth environment.
• Willingness to work onsite five days a week in Lake Forest, CA.

Preferred: semiconductor equipment-control software, GEM/SECS, handlers, burn-in or ATE systems, and experience leading teams across the U.S. and international locations.

What’s in it for you at this industry-leading company?

• A leadership opportunity at a pivotal moment, with a strong bench of top-tier technical talent already in place.
• Real ownership of a high-visibility platform transition that shapes the company’s future.
• A performance-based path for advancement, with a company that promotes quickly.
• Work in a fast-paced, innovative culture at the center of the semiconductor value chain.
• Enjoy a performance-based bonus paid twice yearly