RF/mmWave IC & SiP Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: RF/mmWave IC & SiP Design Manager

Company: Keysight Technologies, Inc.

Location: Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / R&D Leadership

Date Posted: June 01, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a high-performing team of RF/mmWave IC and SiP design engineers, fostering innovation and technical excellence in advanced semiconductor technologies.

• Drive the technical execution and strategic R&D initiatives for next-generation integrated circuits and Systems-in-Package (SiP) supporting critical markets like AI, 5G/6G, and automotive.

• Oversee the entire product development lifecycle from concept through production, ensuring alignment with market needs, performance targets, and business objectives.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, product organizations, and external partners to define roadmaps, optimize trade-offs, and deliver cutting-edge solutions in electronic design and test.

• Mentor and develop engineering talent, cultivate a strong team culture, and communicate technical risks and strategic recommendations to leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership role within Keysight Labs, focusing on the strategic direction and technical execution of RF/mmWave IC and SiP development. The emphasis on "new technologies," "innovation roadmaps," and "future product architectures" indicates a significant influence on the company's long-term technology strategy. The team's output directly supports Keysight's core mission in electronic design, simulation, and test, making this a pivotal position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of skilled MMIC and SiP engineers across diverse semiconductor technologies including GaAs, GaN, InP, and SiGe.

• Define and drive the design and development of advanced RF/mmWave integrated circuits and System-in-Package (SiP) solutions to meet the demands of AI, 5G/6G, automotive, and high-performance communication markets.

• Partner with Technical Project Managers to meticulously plan project scope, timelines, deliverables, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring efficient project execution.

• Drive the advancement of device modeling, simulation methodologies, and validation infrastructure for emerging process technologies to accelerate design cycles.

• Strategically optimize design trade-offs considering performance, cost, manufacturability, schedule adherence, and scalability for high-volume production.

• Enhance engineering workflows, design methodologies, and development tools to improve efficiency, reduce time-to-market, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

• Contribute significantly to the long-term technical strategy, innovation roadmaps, and the architectural planning of future product platforms.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with internal product divisions, Centers of Excellence, fabrication partners, and packaging vendors to ensure seamless product development and production transition.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members, supporting their professional development and career progression within the organization.

• Clearly and concisely communicate project status, identify technical risks, and present strategic recommendations to internal stakeholders and senior leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of people management, technical leadership, and strategic planning. The emphasis on "optimizing trade-offs," "improving engineering workflows," and "contributing to long-term technical strategy" are key indicators of a senior operations/engineering management role focused on efficiency and innovation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in RF/mmWave circuit design and related semiconductor packaging technologies.

• Proven track record of leading complex engineering or R&D projects from inception through successful production release.

• Demonstrated experience in managing, mentoring, and developing technical engineering teams.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical expertise in RF/mmWave circuit design principles and methodologies.

• Strong understanding and practical experience with MMIC technologies such as GaAs, GaN, InP, or SiGe.

• Proven ability to lead and manage complex engineering projects, from concept to production.

• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing or mentoring technical engineering teams.

• Proficiency in managing technical deliverables, project timelines, and budgets.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills, particularly within cross-functional engineering environments.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with System-in-Package (SiP) integration and advanced packaging technologies.

• Experience working closely with semiconductor fabrication houses and external assembly partners.

• Familiarity with device modeling, validation infrastructure development, and RF measurement methodologies.

• Experience supporting high-frequency product development for AI, telecom, aerospace, or automotive applications.

• Exposure to strategic technology planning, innovation roadmapping, and product platform development.

• Knowledge of simulation tools and methodologies relevant to RF/mmWave IC and SiP design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications clearly indicate a need for a seasoned technical leader with both deep domain expertise in RF/mmWave and proven management capabilities. The "Desired Qualifications" suggest areas where candidates can differentiate themselves, particularly in SiP integration and strategic planning, which are crucial for future product development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successfully managed RF/mmWave IC and SiP design projects, highlighting your leadership role and contributions.

• Include case studies demonstrating your ability to optimize trade-offs between performance, cost, manufacturability, and schedule in complex engineering projects.

• Provide evidence of your experience in improving engineering workflows, methodologies, or design tools to enhance development efficiency and accelerate time-to-market.

• Present examples of strategic technical planning, including contributions to innovation roadmaps or future product architecture development.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to defining and driving the design and development of advanced RF/mmWave products, detailing key phases and decision points.

• Document your methods for collaborating with Technical Project Managers, fabrication partners, and packaging vendors to ensure project success.

• Outline your strategies for mentoring and developing technical engineering teams, including performance management and career growth support.

• Provide examples of how you have communicated technical risks and strategic recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.

• Showcase your understanding of device modeling, validation infrastructure development, and RF measurement methodologies within a project context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a management role like this, the portfolio should emphasize leadership, strategic thinking, and process improvement rather than just individual technical contributions. Demonstrating the ability to manage complex projects and teams effectively will be critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the location in Böblingen, Germany, and the senior management level (10+ years of experience, leadership role), a competitive salary would typically range from €100,000 to €150,000 annually, potentially higher for exceptional candidates with extensive experience and a proven track record. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles in the high-tech sector in Germany, considering the specialization in RF/mmWave and semiconductor technologies.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans.

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and further education.

• Access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.

• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

• Employee stock purchase plans or other equity incentives.

• Company-sponsored events and team-building activities.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility often provided to accommodate project demands and personal needs, while ensuring on-site presence for team leadership and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Since specific salary data was unavailable, this estimate is based on industry standards for senior engineering management positions in Germany within the technology sector, adjusted for the specialized nature of RF/mmWave IC & SiP design. The benefits are typical for a company of Keysight's stature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electronic Test and Measurement, Semiconductor Technology, Communications Equipment. Keysight Technologies is a global leader providing advanced solutions that enable innovation in electronic design, test, measurement, and optimization across various industries.

Company Size: Approximately 16,800 employees globally. This indicates a large, established, and resourced organization with a significant global footprint and deep expertise across multiple technology domains.

Founded: 1939 (as Hewlett-Packard), spun off as Keysight Technologies in 2014. This rich history provides a foundation of innovation and a long-standing reputation for quality and reliability in the technology sector.

Team Structure:

• The RF/mmWave IC and SiP Design team is part of Keysight Labs, operating within R&D.

• The team is characterized by a high degree of technical specialization and collaboration with internal product divisions and external Centers of Excellence.

• The Manager will likely lead a team of highly skilled individual contributors (IC designers, SiP engineers) and may interact with Technical Project Managers and other engineering leaders.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, leveraging advanced simulation, modeling, and validation techniques.

• Agile or iterative development processes adapted for hardware and semiconductor R&D.

• Strong emphasis on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous process improvement.

• Focus on innovation and pushing the boundaries of RF/mmWave technology to enable future test and measurement solutions.

Company Website: https://www.keysight.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Keysight's long history and industry leadership suggest a culture that values innovation, technical excellence, and a commitment to solving complex engineering challenges. The "award-winning culture" and emphasis on belonging indicate a supportive environment for employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant step into senior engineering management and R&D leadership. It's a position where technical depth meets strategic oversight and people management, influencing the direction of crucial technology development within the company.

Reporting Structure: The RF/mmWave IC & SiP Design Manager will report to a higher-level R&D or Engineering Director within Keysight Labs. They will manage a team of specialized engineers and collaborate closely with product management, program management, and potentially external R&D partners.

Operations Impact: The work of this team directly impacts Keysight's ability to deliver cutting-edge test and measurement solutions. Innovations in RF/mmWave ICs and SiPs are critical for supporting emerging technologies like 5G/6G, AI, and advanced automotive systems, thereby driving revenue and market leadership for Keysight.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deeper involvement in strategic technology planning, innovation roadmapping, and the definition of future R&D investment areas.

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to Director-level roles overseeing larger R&D organizations or broader technology portfolios.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead initiatives that span multiple departments or business units, influencing product strategy across Keysight.

• Industry Influence: Becoming a recognized leader in RF/mmWave technology, potentially through industry standards bodies, publications, or speaking engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a clear pathway for experienced engineers to transition into formal management and leadership roles, with ample opportunities to influence technology strategy and drive business growth through innovation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Böblingen, Germany, likely within a modern R&D facility. This environment is expected to be collaborative, with dedicated workspaces for engineers, meeting rooms equipped with advanced presentation tools, and access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment.

Office Location(s): Herrenberger Strasse 130, 71034 Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This location is a significant hub for Keysight's R&D operations in Europe.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will foster close interaction between team members, project managers, and other R&D groups to facilitate problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

• Advanced Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance computing, specialized design software (CAD, simulation tools), and well-equipped laboratories for RF/mmWave testing and validation.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and informal discussions to drive innovation and project progress.

Work Schedule: While the role is on-site, Keysight likely offers a degree of flexibility in working hours to support work-life balance, provided project deliverables and team collaboration needs are met. Standard working hours are approximately 40 per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial for a management role involving direct team leadership, lab access, and close collaboration with R&D partners. The Böblingen location suggests a strong European engineering presence for Keysight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager (Khouzema Unchwaniwala) focusing on leadership experience, technical depth in RF/mmWave and SiP, project management skills, and strategic thinking.

• Technical Panel Interview: Meeting with senior engineers and potentially peers from other teams to evaluate technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of semiconductor technologies and design methodologies.

• Cross-functional Stakeholder Interview: Discussion with individuals from product management, program management, or other R&D groups to assess collaboration and communication skills.

• Leadership/Executive Interview: A final interview with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Engineering) to assess overall fit, strategic vision, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Leadership Focus: Emphasize your role in leading teams, driving projects, and making strategic decisions, rather than solely individual technical contributions.

• Project Scope & Impact: Clearly articulate the scope, challenges, and successful outcomes of your managed projects. Quantify achievements with metrics related to performance, cost, schedule, or efficiency improvements.

• Technical Depth & Breadth: Be prepared to discuss the specific RF/mmWave technologies (GaAs, GaN, InP, SiGe) and SiP integration challenges your team has addressed.

• Process Improvement: Showcase examples of how you've improved engineering workflows, design methodologies, or tool utilization to enhance team productivity and time-to-market.

• Strategic Vision: Highlight your contributions to technology roadmapping, R&D strategy, and future product architecture planning.

Challenge Preparation:

• Leadership Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle common management challenges, such as team conflicts, performance issues, or resource constraints.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to walk through a complex technical problem you or your team faced and how it was resolved, demonstrating your analytical and decision-making process.

• Strategic Thinking Exercise: You may be asked to discuss how you would approach developing a technology roadmap for a specific product area or how to prioritize R&D investments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a management role will heavily scrutinize leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and the ability to drive complex projects and teams. A well-curated portfolio demonstrating these aspects is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• RF/mmWave Design & Simulation Software: Cadence Virtuoso, Keysight ADS (Advanced Design System), Ansys HFSS, CST Studio Suite, Synopsys Custom Compiler, or similar industry-standard EDA tools for circuit design, layout, and electromagnetic simulation.

• Semiconductor Process Design Kits (PDKs): Experience utilizing and understanding PDKs for various semiconductor technologies (GaAs, GaN, InP, SiGe).

• System-in-Package (SiP) Design Tools: Tools for 3D EM simulation, thermal analysis, and integration of multiple components within a package.

• Version Control Systems: Git, SVN, or similar for managing design files and code.

• Project Management Software: Jira, Asana, Microsoft Project, or similar for tracking tasks, timelines, and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Metrics Tools: Tools for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design performance, project execution, team productivity, and R&D ROI.

• Data Analysis Software: Potentially Python with libraries like NumPy/Pandas, MATLAB, or specialized tools for analyzing simulation results and test data.

• Reporting Dashboards: Tools like Tableau, Power BI, or internal Keysight solutions for visualizing project status and technical data for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing CRM, understanding how design projects integrate with product lifecycle management (PLM) and manufacturing execution systems (MES) is beneficial.

• Automation tools for design flows, test execution, and data processing are likely employed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard EDA tools is a baseline requirement. The manager role also requires familiarity with project management and data analysis tools to oversee team performance and communicate effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Technical Excellence: A core value driven by the need to develop cutting-edge technologies that push the boundaries of electronic measurement.

• Customer Focus: Ensuring that R&D efforts directly translate into solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers in high-tech markets.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Encouraging open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support within the team and across departments to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Quality: Upholding the highest standards in all aspects of design, development, and execution, reflecting Keysight's reputation for reliability.

• Continuous Improvement: Fostering a mindset of learning, adapting, and optimizing processes, tools, and methodologies for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close partnership with product management, marketing, manufacturing, and other R&D teams to ensure alignment from concept to market.

• Data-Driven Discussions: Utilizing data from simulations, tests, and market analysis to inform decisions and drive productive discussions.

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging an environment where feedback is openly shared and received to drive continuous improvement in design and team performance.

• Agile & Iterative Approach: Embracing flexibility and adaptability in development processes to respond to new insights and evolving market requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Keysight's culture, as described, emphasizes innovation, customer focus, and strong collaborative values, which are essential for a high-performing R&D team in a competitive technology landscape.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the accelerating advancements in RF/mmWave technologies and their applications (e.g., 5G/6G, AI hardware) requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Complexity of Emerging Technologies: Managing R&D for cutting-edge technologies like GaN, InP, and advanced SiP integration, which often involve inherent technical risks and development hurdles.

• Balancing Innovation with Business Objectives: Effectively aligning ambitious R&D goals with market demands, cost constraints, and aggressive product launch timelines.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and retaining highly specialized RF/mmWave and SiP design engineers in a competitive global market.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless integration and communication across diverse teams (design, product, manufacturing, external partners) to drive project success.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technology Training: Access to internal and external training programs on the latest RF/mmWave semiconductor technologies, packaging techniques, and design methodologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in Keysight's leadership training initiatives focused on strategic planning, people management, and executive communication.

• Industry Conferences & Standards: Opportunities to attend and present at leading industry conferences (e.g., IMS, EuMW) and contribute to relevant technology standards committees.

• Mentorship: Being mentored by senior leaders within Keysight and providing mentorship to emerging talent within the organization.

• Exposure to Diverse Markets: Gaining in-depth understanding of application requirements across AI, 5G/6G, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a leadership role in a cutting-edge technology R&D environment, requiring strategic foresight and strong problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are substantial for career advancement and expertise development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you define and drive the technical strategy for RF/mmWave IC and SiP development over the next 3-5 years, considering emerging market trends like AI and 6G?" (Focus on strategic planning, market foresight, and technology roadmapping.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting priorities between performance, cost, and schedule for a complex R&D project. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on trade-off optimization, project management, and decision-making.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Keysight and the industry, what do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for our RF/mmWave R&D efforts?" (Demonstrate research and industry awareness.)

• "How would you integrate a new team member into your existing high-performing RF/mmWave design team, ensuring both technical contribution and cultural fit?" (Focus on onboarding, team dynamics, and mentorship.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio around key projects, using a narrative that highlights the problem, your leadership approach, the technical solutions, and the quantifiable results.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, present clear metrics on performance improvements, cost savings, schedule adherence, or efficiency gains achieved under your leadership or guidance.

• Showcase Leadership: Use your portfolio to demonstrate your ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, make critical technical decisions, and drive strategic initiatives.

• Technical Acumen: Be prepared to dive deep into the technical aspects of your projects, demonstrating your understanding of RF/mmWave technologies, SiP integration, and design challenges.

• Future-Oriented: Connect your past successes to how you can contribute to Keysight's future goals and innovation roadmap.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of RF/mmWave technologies, with a clear ability to translate technical innovation into business value.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this RF/mmWave IC & SiP Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Keysight Technologies careers portal via the provided job URL.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in RF/mmWave IC and SiP design, team leadership, project management, and strategic R&D initiatives, using keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a concise portfolio (e.g., PDF presentation) showcasing 2-3 key projects where you demonstrated leadership in RF/mmWave design, process improvement, or strategic planning. Focus on quantifiable results and your specific role in driving success.

• Research Keysight: Familiarize yourself with Keysight Technologies' products, markets (especially AI, 5G/6G, automotive), recent innovations, and company culture to articulate your alignment during interviews.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy, technical expertise, project management approach, and strategic vision using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Practice articulating your portfolio highlights clearly and concisely.

⚠️ 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.

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