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Principle Product Application Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

About the Company:

At SK Hynix Memory Solution, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing advanced memory solutions that power everything from smartphones to data centers. As a global leader in DRAM and NAND flash technologies, we drive the evolution of advancing mobile technology, empowering cloud computing, and pioneering future technologies. Our cutting-edge memory technologies are essential in today's most advanced electronic devices and IT infrastructure, enabling enhanced performance and user experiences across the digital landscape.

We're looking for innovative minds to join our mission of shaping the future of technology. At SK Hynix Memory, you'll be part of a team that's pioneering breakthrough memory solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. We're not just adapting to technological change – we're driving it, with significant investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and eco-friendly solutions and operational practices. As we continue to expand our market presence and push the boundaries of what's possible in semiconductor technology, we invite you to be part of our journey to creating the next of memory solutions that will define the future of computing.

About the Role:

Our Product Application Engineering team is a fast‑paced, cross‑functional group dedicated to ensuring the reliability and performance of cutting‑edge SSD products. We work closely with hardware design, firmware, QA, and customer support teams to diagnose, reproduce, and resolve PCIe/NVMe protocol issues, and we own the development of in‑house test frameworks that keep our products ahead of the market.

Responsibilities:

Root‑cause analysis & troubleshooting

  • Investigate PCIe/NVMe protocol failures reported by customers or internal testing, using logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and software debug tools.

Issue reproduction

  • Design and implement reproducible test cases and scripts that reliably trigger observed problems, enabling efficient debugging and fix verification.

Cross‑team support

  • Act as the primary technical liaison for hardware, firmware, and QA groups, providing detailed issue screening, status updates, and remediation recommendations.

In‑house test execution & debugging

  • Develop, maintain, and run PCIe/NVMe validation suites, analyze test results, and fine‑tune test methodologies to cover new features and edge‑case scenarios.

Documentation & knowledge sharing

  • Produce clear defect reports, troubleshooting guides, and best‑practice documents; mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal knowledge bases.

Continuous improvement

  • Identify gaps in existing test coverage or debugging processes and propose enhancements to tooling, procedures, or automation frameworks.

Minimum Qualifications:

Technical Expertise

  • Strong, hands‑on knowledge of the PCIe protocol.
  • Deep understanding of the NVMe specification as it applies to SSD products.
  • Proven ability to perform low‑level hardware debugging using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers.

Programming Skills

  • Advanced Python scripting ability (≥ 3 years of experience) for test automation
  • Data parsing, and rapid‑prototype debugging tools.

Professional Experience

  • 8+ years of relevant experience in the SSD, PCIe, or related storage‑interface industry.
  • Demonstrated track record of diagnosing, reproducing, and resolving complex hardware‑software interoperability issues.

Engineering Acumen

  • Excellent engineering judgment for root‑cause analysis and systematic troubleshooting.
  • Ability to translate ambiguous symptoms into reproducible test cases and actionable fixes.

Personal Attributes

  • High motivation and ownership for driving issues to closure across multiple teams.
  • Strong communication skills for clear documentation, status reporting, and cross‑functional collaboration.

Qualifications:

Programming Experience

  • Familiarity with C/C++ development, especially for low‑level firmware or driver code.
  • Firmware Knowledge
    • Deep understanding of SSD firmware architecture, boot flow, wear‑leveling, error‑correction, and firmware update mechanisms
  • NAND‑Flash Expertise
    • Good knowledge of NAND‑Flash technology, including cell types (SLC/MLC/TLC/QLC), die‑level characteristics, and typical development challenges.
  • Communication Skills
    • Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to present technical findings clearly to both engineering and non‑technical stakeholders.
  • Multi‑Tasking Ability
    • Proven capability to manage several concurrent debugging or testing projects while maintaining high quality and meeting deadlines.

COMPENSATION: $166,000/yr - $197,000/yr

REGARDING COMPENSATION:

SK hynix memory solutions America Inc. offers you the opportunity to apply your skills to exciting projects while working with innovative teams. Our compensation package is complimented by a generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and a company 401(k) match, as well as cafeteria, onsite gym and much more. If you are motivated by technical challenges, we offer a collaborative work environment that encourages career growth.

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be tailored based on several factors, including the location, job grade, relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. We also take into account the internal equity among our current team members to ensure fairness and competitiveness.