Characterization Engineer
About Kandou AI
At Kandou AI, we are redefining the economics of AI infrastructure. Our mission is to democratise AI by significantly reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of hardware systems — a critical barrier to scalable adoption.
Our proprietary MIMO‑over‑copper technology powers a high‑performance, chiplet‑based AI memory fabric that is both scalable and energy‑efficient. Unlike traditional interconnects, our solution reduces power consumption while preserving high bandwidth and ultra‑low latency, unlocking unprecedented efficiency for AI training and inference at scale.
Kandou AI’s architecture is not an incremental improvement — it represents a foundational shift in how AI hardware is built for the future.
We are actively seeking a Characterization Engineer for our lab in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Role Overview
The Characterization Engineer will lead end‑to‑end characterization of high‑speed silicon devices and SerDes operating at symbol rates above 20 Gbaud. This role is central to validating Kandou’s next‑generation high‑speed analog and mixed‑signal designs, ensuring performance, robustness and efficiency across PVT conditions.
You will work hands‑on in the lab, collaborating closely with IP architects, digital and analog design teams, and contributing directly to the productization of breakthrough interconnect technology.
Responsibilities
- Lead end‑to‑end characterization of high‑speed SerDes operating above 20 Gbaud.
- Perform jitter, eye‑diagram, BER and margin measurements across PVT.
- Characterize full transmitter and receiver electrical parameters.
- Conduct S‑parameter, TDR and insertion‑loss measurements.
- Use high‑speed oscilloscopes, VNAs and spectrum analyzers for device evaluation.
- Collaborate with IP architects, digital and analog design teams to refine and validate designs.
- Document test results, methodologies and procedures.
- Write and architect Python‑based test scripts for automation, data analysis and report generation.
- Contribute to test plan definition and continuous improvement of lab methodologies.
Required Experience
- Proven experience characterizing silicon devices over PVT.
- Hands‑on experience with high‑speed oscilloscopes, VNAs and spectrum analyzers.
- Experience defining test plans and test procedures.
- Proficiency in Python or other object‑oriented languages for test automation and data analysis.
- Experience with PAM or multi‑tonal modulation schemes (plus).
- Experience in SerDes characterization (plus).
- Minimum 5 years of relevant industry experience.
Required Competencies
- Self‑motivated with strong ownership and accountability.
- Effective communicator and collaborative team player.
- Strong interest in characterizing high‑speed analog circuits.
- Solid understanding — or ability to quickly learn — SI concepts, modulation schemes, TX/RX fundamentals.
- Ability to multitask in a fast‑paced, high‑energy environment.
- Experience using high‑speed lab equipment (oscilloscopes, VNAs, spectrum analyzers).
- Schematic entry or PCB design experience (plus).
Required Education
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent work experience.