Characterization Lab Manager

Littelfuse (NASDAQ: LFUS) is a diversified industrial technology manufacturing company shaping solutions for the safe and efficient transfer of electrical energy. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA, we serve customers across industrial, transportation, and electronics markets worldwide. With approximately 16,000 employees we design and manufacture innovative technologies that support electrification, energy efficiency, and advanced automation. Our global reach is matched by a culture that empowers innovation and long-term growth. Guided by our principles We Care, We Succeed With Our Customers, and We Own the Outcome, we work collaboratively, think boldly, and deliver solutions that move industries forward.

We are Seeking a highly skilled and motivated Characterization Lab Manager to lead engineers and technicians within our Power Semiconductor Characterization organization. This role combines deep technical ownership for the characterization and verification of advanced power semiconductor devices, including SiC Diodes, SiC / Si MOSFETs, Schottky Diodes, and IGBTs, with operational responsibility for a safe, compliant, and efficient characterization laboratory. The ideal candidate will provide hands-on technical guidance, develop team capabilities, manage lab priorities and resources, and drive the automation, standardization, and continuous improvement of measurement setups across global sites.

About the Job

• •Lead and execute characterization and verification of power semiconductor devices to ensure full functional coverage.
• •Collaborate with design leaders and product definers to define test specifications and verification plans.
• •Develop, maintain, and enhance automated test setups and measurement systems to improve efficiency and repeatability.
• •Analyze measurement data and generate technical reports for datasheets and internal design documentation.
• •Conduct and lead design verification reviews, ensuring alignment with JEDEC and internal standards.
• •Champion the global alignment of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all characterization sites.
• •Identify and implement best practices in measurement methodology, automation, and data analysis.
• •Troubleshoot and resolve test failures, propose corrective actions, and follow through on implementation.
• •Act as local characterization lab manager, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operation of laboratory infrastructure, equipment, workflows, and measurement capabilities for power semiconductor devices.
• •Plan and prioritize lab capacity, resource allocation, equipment utilization, and project support to meet business unit roadmaps and development timelines.
• •Provide day-to-day technical and organizational leadership for engineers and technicians, including task planning, capability development, work coordination, and escalation support.

About You

Required Technical Skills:

• •Proven experience in power semiconductor characterization, including SiC and Si based technologies.
• •Strong background in electrical measurements using oscilloscopes, parameter analyzers, PXI systems, etc.
• •Advanced knowledge in measurement circuit design, including high-speed switching and thermal behavior.
• •Knowledge of industry standards IEC 60747 and JEDEC JESD14 for power semiconductor characterization, including proficiency in thermal measurement methodologies like Rth/Zth and time-based thermal analysis.
• •Proficiency in automated test development using scripting languages such as Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, C/C++/C#.
• •Experience with PCB design and test fixture development.
• •Deep understanding of fast di/dt and dV/dt events and their implications in test environments.
• •Ability to design or collaborate on test circuitry for advanced setups (e.g., surge pulses).
• •Experience defining and maintaining laboratory equipment strategies, including calibration status, maintenance planning, upgrade roadmaps, and Capex input for characterization infrastructure.
• •Strong understanding of lab safety, EHS requirements, high-voltage/high-current test risks, and controlled measurement practices in power semiconductor characterization environments.

Soft Skills & Leadership:

• •Strong communication and presentation skills to effectively convey technical findings and mentor team members.
• •Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and drive process improvements.
• •Passion for mentoring and developing talent, with a collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• •Strategic mindset with the ability to balance hands-on technical work and high-level process oversight.
• •Ability to lead, coach, and develop a mixed team of engineers and technicians, ensuring clear priorities, ownership, skill growth, and effective collaboration across functions.
• •Accountable mindset for laboratory performance, quality, compliance, and continuous improvement, including structured problem solving and transparent stakeholder communication.

Education:

• •Bachelor or university degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics
• MS preferred

Experience

• •5+ years of experience in semiconductor device characterization or a related field.
• •Experience working in a global Laboratory environment with cross-site collaboration
• •Management experience
• •Deep knowledge of engineering
• •Experience with global manufacturing companies preferred
• •Advanced knowledge in MS Office
• •Strong analytical skills
• •Strong communication skills
• •High attention to detail

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At Littelfuse, we support employee growth and development. Guided by our culture principles, our teams work together to deliver value for customers and make a positive impact in the communities where we operate. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow and contribute. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, performance-based incentives, flexible work arrangements, and development opportunities.