Head of Design Verification Testing 100%

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design Verification Testing 100%

Company: Comet AG

Location: Flamatt, Switzerland

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Operations Management (Design Verification)

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with leadership experience)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary validation team of approximately 10 engineers, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Define and execute comprehensive validation strategies for RF power devices across all stages of the product lifecycle (EVT, DVT, PVT).

• Develop and oversee detailed test plans, encompassing functional, performance, stress, reliability, and compliance testing.

• Drive validation efforts at component, subsystem, and system levels through close collaboration with cross-functional engineering and product teams.

• Establish scalable test setups, robust automation frameworks, and standardized validation methodologies, while leading root-cause analysis and reliability strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior leadership position within the Design Verification Testing function, focusing on the validation of RF power devices critical to plasma control technologies. It requires a blend of technical expertise in RF and electronic systems, strong people management skills, and a strategic approach to product validation throughout the entire lifecycle. The emphasis on EVT, DVT, and PVT stages indicates a deep involvement in the product development process from early prototyping to mass production readiness.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Development:

  • Manage, mentor, and develop a team of ~10 multidisciplinary validation engineers.
  • Foster a high-performing team environment focused on technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
  • Conduct performance reviews, provide feedback, and support professional development plans for team members.

• Validation Strategy & Planning:

  • Define and implement overarching validation strategies for RF power devices, from initial engineering validation (EVT) through design validation (DVT) and production validation (PVT).
  • Develop comprehensive test plans that cover functional requirements, performance benchmarks, stress conditions, long-term reliability, and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure alignment of validation strategies with product roadmaps, market requirements, and engineering specifications.

• Test Execution & Oversight:

  • Oversee the execution of test plans at component, subsystem, and system levels.
  • Ensure the accuracy, efficiency, and thoroughness of all validation activities.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware and software development teams to integrate validation efforts seamlessly into the product development lifecycle.

• Process & Infrastructure Development:

  • Establish and maintain scalable test setups and environments.
  • Develop and implement robust automation frameworks to enhance test efficiency, repeatability, and data integrity.
  • Define and standardize validation methodologies, best practices, and documentation requirements.

• Root Cause Analysis & Reliability:

  • Lead and participate in root-cause analysis for identified defects or performance issues.

  • Develop and implement strategies to enhance product reliability and longevity based on test findings and industry standards.

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the validation process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior role that bridges technical execution with strategic leadership. The emphasis on EVT, DVT, and PVT stages suggests a need for a candidate experienced in the rigorous validation processes common in high-tech manufacturing, particularly for semiconductor equipment or similar complex electronic systems. The requirement to lead root-cause analysis and reliability strategies indicates a focus on product quality and long-term performance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in RF engineering, electronic power tools, semiconductor equipment manufacturing, or similar high-tech industries.

• Proven track record of leading and building high-performing, multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Required Skills:

• Team Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop engineering teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Validation Strategy: Expertise in defining and executing comprehensive validation strategies across EVT, DVT, and PVT phases.

• RF & Electronic Systems: Deep technical understanding of RF systems, electronic power devices, and their operational principles.

• Test Planning & Execution: Proficient in developing detailed test plans for functional, performance, stress, reliability, and compliance testing.

• Automation Frameworks: Experience in developing and implementing automated test environments and frameworks for efficient validation.

• Root Cause Analysis: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to effectively identify and resolve complex technical issues.

• Product Lifecycle Management: Understanding of the full product lifecycle from concept through industrialization.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders, particularly in international and matrix organizations.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A structured, analytical mindset focused on using data to inform validation strategies and problem-solving.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with semiconductor manufacturing equipment or components.

• Knowledge of plasma control technologies.

• Familiarity with specific RF power device architectures and testing methodologies.

• Experience with international standards and compliance testing relevant to electronic components.

• Project management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a senior technical leader with a strong foundation in RF engineering and practical experience in product validation within demanding high-tech sectors. The blend of leadership, technical depth, and process-oriented skills is critical for success in this role. The explicit mention of stakeholder management in matrix organizations suggests the need for strong collaborative and communication abilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Validation Strategy Documentation: Examples of comprehensive validation strategies developed for complex electronic or RF systems, detailing phases (EVT, DVT, PVT), objectives, and key metrics.

• Test Plan Samples: Demonstrations of detailed test plans, showcasing the scope of testing (functional, performance, stress, reliability, compliance) and methodologies used.

• Automation Framework Design: Portfolio pieces illustrating the design and implementation of test automation frameworks, highlighting efficiency gains, scalability, and data reporting capabilities.

• Root Cause Analysis Case Studies: Detailed case studies of how complex technical issues were diagnosed and resolved, emphasizing structured problem-solving approaches and lessons learned.

• Reliability Testing Protocols: Examples of protocols and findings from reliability testing, demonstrating an understanding of product longevity and failure analysis.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of designing or optimizing validation workflows to improve efficiency, reduce time-to-market, and enhance test coverage.

• Implementation & Automation: Documentation showcasing the implementation of new testing processes, tools, or automation solutions within an engineering team.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of how validation processes were measured for effectiveness, including metrics tracked, performance analysis, and reporting mechanisms to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates for this leadership role are expected to showcase not just technical execution, but also strategic thinking and process ownership. A portfolio demonstrating a structured approach to validation, from high-level strategy to detailed execution and root-cause analysis, will be crucial. The emphasis on automation and process optimization highlights the need for candidates who can drive efficiency and scalability within the validation function.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Options & Hybrid Working: Adaptable work arrangements to promote work-life balance.

• Profit Sharing: Opportunity to participate in the company's financial success.

• Educational & Career Opportunities: Support for continuous learning and professional growth.

• On-site Perks:

  • Discounted meals in the company canteen.
  • Free fruit provided.
  • Support for health initiatives (e.g., "bike to work" programs).

• Financial & Lifestyle Benefits:

  • Tax-free fringe benefits via Swibeco.ch.
  • Employee discounts with various partners (e.g., brack.ch, CC Aligro, SIXT).
  • Mobility perks including fleet discounts and e-charging stations for cars and bikes.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through hybrid working arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering leadership roles in Switzerland, considering the specialized nature of RF engineering and design verification. The comprehensive benefits package indicates a company that values employee well-being, professional development, and work-life integration, which are attractive aspects for operations and engineering professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advanced Technologies, specifically X-ray and Radio-Frequency (RF) Technology. Comet AG operates within the high-tech manufacturing sector, providing critical components and systems for industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, medical imaging, and industrial inspection.

Company Size: Comet AG is a well-established technology company, likely falling into the medium to large enterprise category. With a significant global presence and a focus on innovation, it operates with the resources and structure of a substantial organization.

Founded: Founded over 75 years ago, Comet AG has a long history of innovation and technological advancement, establishing itself as a leading Swiss technology company. This longevity suggests a stable, experienced, and forward-thinking organization.

Team Structure:

• The role resides within the Plasma Control Technologies (PCT) division, which focuses on specialized components for plasma processes used in manufacturing sensitive electronics like memory chips and touch screens.

• The Head of Design Verification Testing will lead a multidisciplinary validation team of approximately 10 engineers.

• This team will likely collaborate closely with R&D, product management, manufacturing, and quality assurance departments, typical of a matrix organization structure.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Innovation: The company's emphasis on curiosity and spirit of research suggests a culture that values data-driven decision-making and continuous exploration.

• Process Optimization: As a technology company, there is an implicit focus on robust engineering processes, including rigorous product development, testing, and quality control methodologies.

• Automation & Efficiency: The need to establish scalable test setups and automation frameworks indicates a commitment to leveraging technology for efficiency and improved product outcomes.

Company Website: https://www.comet.tech/

📝 Enhancement Note: Comet AG's long history, focus on cutting-edge technology (X-ray and RF), and commitment to innovation paint a picture of a technically sophisticated and stable organization. The PCT division's focus on semiconductor manufacturing components places this role at the heart of a critical and rapidly evolving industry. The team structure implies a collaborative environment where cross-functional interaction is key to success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position, specifically "Head of Design Verification Testing." It represents a significant step into management and strategic oversight within a specialized technical domain. The responsibilities extend beyond individual contribution to team leadership, strategic planning, and cross-functional influence.

Reporting Structure:

• The Head of Design Verification Testing will report to a senior engineering leader, likely a Director or VP of Engineering within the Plasma Control Technologies (PCT) division.

• They will directly manage a team of approximately 10 validation engineers, guiding their technical work and professional development.

Operations Impact:

• The primary impact of this role is on product quality, reliability, and time-to-market for critical RF power devices.

• Successful validation directly contributes to the performance and market competitiveness of Comet AG's products used in advanced manufacturing processes (e.g., semiconductor fabrication).

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into higher leadership roles within engineering, such as Director of Engineering, VP of R&D, or head of a broader technology division.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in RF technology, semiconductor equipment, and advanced validation methodologies, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead or contribute to larger, cross-functional product development initiatives or strategic projects.

• Process Improvement & Strategy: Drive significant improvements in validation processes and contribute to the overall technological strategy of the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression into senior engineering management. The combination of technical specialization and leadership responsibilities provides a strong foundation for future growth within a leading technology company. The impact on product quality and market success is substantial, making it a pivotal role for operations and engineering professionals seeking to make a significant contribution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Flamatt, Switzerland, and offers a hybrid working arrangement. This suggests a modern office environment designed for collaboration, innovation, and efficient workflow, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Flamatt, Switzerland. This location serves as a hub for the Plasma Control Technologies (PCT) division.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on cross-functional collaboration imply a workspace that encourages teamwork, knowledge sharing, and open communication. Expect shared office spaces, meeting rooms, and potentially lab facilities.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art validation equipment, testing labs, simulation software, and collaboration tools will be essential for the team's productivity.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the validation team, R&D engineers, product managers, and manufacturing personnel, facilitating a cohesive and efficient product development process.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid arrangement provides flexibility, allowing for a mix of on-site and remote work, which can be beneficial for focused technical work, team meetings, and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at Comet AG in Flamatt is designed to support both focused technical work and collaborative team efforts. The office is likely equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support advanced engineering tasks, including validation labs. The flexibility offered through hybrid work is a key aspect of the modern work culture, aiming to balance productivity with employee well-being.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and potentially a brief introductory call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

2. Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with engineering leaders and potential peers. These will focus on your technical expertise in RF engineering, validation methodologies, team leadership experience, and problem-solving skills. Expect scenario-based questions and discussions about your past projects.

3. Portfolio Review & Case Study: A dedicated session where you will present examples from your portfolio, showcasing your approach to validation strategy, test plan development, automation, and root-cause analysis. This is where you'll demonstrate your ability to lead and implement complex validation processes.

4. Leadership & Strategy Discussion: Interviews with senior management (e.g., Director/VP of Engineering) to assess your strategic thinking, leadership philosophy, ability to manage a team, and alignment with Comet AG's company culture and long-term goals.

5. Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion, potentially with higher leadership, followed by an offer if successful.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio around key areas: Validation Strategy, Test Plan Design, Automation Implementation, and Root Cause Analysis/Reliability.

• Quantify Impact: For each project or case study, clearly articulate the challenge, your approach, the tools/methodologies used, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., % reduction in defects, % improvement in test efficiency, time saved, reliability metrics achieved).

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase examples of how you led teams, mentored engineers, and drove process improvements.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical intricacies of RF systems, validation challenges, and your problem-solving approach in detail.

• Tailor to Comet: Research Comet AG's products and technologies. Frame your experience and portfolio examples in a way that demonstrates relevance to their specific needs in RF power devices and plasma control.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that present hypothetical validation challenges (e.g., "How would you approach validating a new RF power amplifier for high-volume production?"). Focus on your structured approach, risk assessment, and testing strategy.

• Leadership Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you handle team conflicts, motivate engineers, manage performance, and foster a positive team culture.

• Process Improvement Ideas: Think about potential areas for improvement in validation processes that could be relevant to Comet AG's operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical acumen and leadership capabilities. A strong portfolio demonstrating strategic thinking, practical application of validation techniques, and leadership impact is essential. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their contributions and methodologies in detail, linking them to business outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• RF Test Equipment: Spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers, power meters, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, specialized RF test fixtures.

• Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Tools: Software for schematic capture, PCB layout, simulation (e.g., Cadence, Altium Designer, Keysight ADS, COMSOL).

• Test Automation Software/Frameworks: Python, LabVIEW, C++, specialized scripting languages for test automation.

• Data Acquisition Systems: Hardware and software for collecting and logging test data.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: MATLAB, Python (with libraries like NumPy, Pandas, SciPy), JMP, R.

• Statistical Software: For analyzing test results, reliability data, and performance metrics.

• Dashboarding & Visualization Tools: Tableau, Power BI, Grafana, or custom internal tools for presenting validation results and team performance to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how validation data feeds into product lifecycle management (PLM) systems and potentially enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is beneficial.

• Version Control Systems: Git, SVN for managing test scripts and automation code.

• Test Management Tools: Tools for organizing test cases, tracking execution status, and managing defects (e.g., Jira with test management plugins, TestRail, Zephyr).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with a wide range of RF testing equipment and associated software is critical. Experience in developing and implementing automated test solutions is a key requirement. The ability to analyze complex data sets and present findings clearly through dashboards and reports is also essential for this leadership role, enabling data-driven decision-making and effective communication with various stakeholders.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity & Innovation: Embodying Comet AG's core value of curiosity to explore new validation approaches and technologies, driving innovation in testing methodologies.

• Quality & Reliability: A deep commitment to ensuring the highest standards of product quality and reliability through rigorous and thorough design verification.

• Data-Driven Excellence: Utilizing data analysis and metrics to guide validation strategies, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate product performance.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment within the validation team and across R&D, product management, and manufacturing to achieve common goals.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking ownership of the validation process and its outcomes, ensuring timely and effective execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with R&D engineers to understand design intent and provide early feedback, collaborating with product management to align validation with market needs, and working closely with manufacturing to ensure design for manufacturability and testability.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging a culture of continuous feedback within the team and with collaborating departments to refine validation processes and methodologies.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of technical knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned across the team and organization to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inferred values align with a high-tech engineering environment that prioritizes innovation, quality, and teamwork. A candidate who demonstrates these values through their past leadership experiences and approach to problem-solving will be a strong fit for Comet AG's culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of RF Systems: Validating highly complex RF power devices requires deep technical understanding and sophisticated testing methodologies to ensure performance across a wide range of conditions.

• Rapid Technology Evolution: Staying abreast of advancements in RF technology, semiconductor manufacturing processes, and validation tools to ensure testing remains relevant and effective.

• Balancing Speed and Thoroughness: Ensuring timely product releases while maintaining the rigor required for comprehensive validation and reliability testing.

• Leading a Multidisciplinary Team: Effectively managing and motivating a team of engineers with diverse specializations and experience levels.

• Global Collaboration: Navigating communication and collaboration challenges in an international and matrix organization structure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced RF & Semiconductor Technology: Opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technologies in RF power, plasma control, and semiconductor manufacturing.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training to enhance leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential support for attending relevant industry conferences and pursuing advanced certifications in RF engineering or validation.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced senior leaders within Comet AG and to mentor junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant intellectual challenges due to the cutting-edge technology involved and the complexities of RF validation. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a path for deep technical specialization and senior leadership within a reputable technology firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Vision & Strategy: "What would be your top three priorities in the first 90 days as Head of Design Verification Testing at Comet AG, and how would you align them with our product goals?" (Prepare to discuss team assessment, process review, and strategic planning).

• Team Leadership Philosophy: "Describe your approach to building and leading a high-performing validation engineering team. How do you foster accountability and continuous improvement?" (Focus on your management style, motivation techniques, and performance development strategies).

• Validation Process Design: "Walk us through your ideal validation process for a new RF power device, from initial concept through to production readiness. What are the critical checkpoints and metrics?" (Detail your understanding of EVT, DVT, PVT, and key performance indicators).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Comet: "Why are you interested in Comet AG and this specific role at this time?" (Research Comet's mission, technologies, and recent achievements. Connect your career aspirations to their goals).

• Cultural Fit: "How do you handle disagreements within your team or with cross-functional partners? How do you promote a collaborative work environment?" (Showcase your communication skills and ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics).

• Innovation & Curiosity: "Given Comet's emphasis on curiosity, how do you encourage innovation within your team, particularly in the realm of testing and validation?" (Provide examples of encouraging new ideas or approaches).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of your experience and key achievements. Then, dive into 2-3 detailed case studies that best represent your strategic thinking, technical expertise, and leadership capabilities in validation.

• Focus on Process & Results: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your solution (strategy, plans, implementation), and the quantifiable results achieved. Emphasize efficiency gains, risk mitigation, and quality improvements.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Explain your role in leading the team, guiding decisions, and overcoming challenges within each case study.

• Technical Depth & Clarity: Be prepared to explain complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, tailoring your language to your audience.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, challenges encountered, and alternative approaches you might have considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical mastery in RF validation, strategic leadership, and a deep understanding of product lifecycle processes. Candidates should be ready to articulate their impact through concrete examples and show how their leadership style aligns with Comet AG's innovative and collaborative culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Comet AG careers portal via the provided job link.

• Portfolio Customization: Review your professional portfolio to select 2-3 compelling case studies that best exemplify your leadership in design verification testing, RF systems, and process optimization. Ensure these showcase your strategic planning, test execution, automation implementation, and root-cause analysis skills.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of experience in RF/electronic power tools and semiconductor equipment, emphasizing leadership achievements, strategic contributions, and quantifiable results in validation and team management. Integrate keywords such as "Design Verification Testing," "RF Engineering," "Validation Strategy," "Automation Frameworks," and "Root Cause Analysis."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), especially for leadership and problem-solving scenarios. Prepare to discuss your validation strategies and present your portfolio with confidence, focusing on the impact and lessons learned.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Comet AG's history, technological focus (X-ray and RF technology), specific products (PCT division, RF power devices), and company values (curiosity, innovation). Understand their market position and how this role contributes to their success.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.