Job details

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.

We collect and manage personal data in compliance with data privacy regulations and best practices.

What You Should Know About Director - Lab Design & Operations, Design Enablement Gateway , Natcast

At Natcast, we are on a mission to enhance America’s leading edge in semiconductor technology, and we are excited to bring on a Director - Lab Design & Operations for our Design Enablement Gateway. In this crucial role, you will spearhead the design and optimization of cutting-edge semiconductor laboratories, nestled within our state-of-the-art Design and Collaboration Facility. You’ll have the chance to influence every aspect of the laboratory experience, from architectural design to the intricate details of power distribution and cooling systems, all aimed at fostering breakthrough innovations. Day in and day out, you will oversee the orchestration of laboratory operations, ensuring that our sophisticated environments support multiple technology platforms while adhering to industry safety and compliance standards. With your wealth of experience and a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, you'll bring over 15 years of proven leadership in electronics laboratory management. Your expertise will not only ensure the highest standards of operational efficiency but also play a key role in cultivating a collaborative environment that enhances the capabilities of our research teams. If you pride yourself on crafting exceptional research infrastructures and are eager to drive continuous improvement initiatives, this is your moment to shine. We welcome your passion and your talent to contribute to a future where semiconductor technology is more impactful than ever. Join us at Natcast, and together we can shape the future of semiconductor innovation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Director - Lab Design & Operations, Design Enablement Gateway Role at Natcast

What are the primary responsibilities of the Director - Lab Design & Operations at Natcast?

The Director - Lab Design & Operations at Natcast will lead the design and implementation of advanced semiconductor laboratories, ensuring they meet the highest operational standards. Responsibilities include optimizing lab infrastructure, overseeing the procurement of advanced equipment, and establishing safety protocols. Additionally, this role involves guiding cross-functional teams and creating strategies for equipment utilization to support cutting-edge semiconductor research.