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System Validation Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a SerDes System Validation Engineer to lead system validation of mixed-signal ... Work with design teams to understand the architecture and define DFT needs to help enhance ...

We are looking for a SerDes System Validation Engineer to lead system validation of mixed-signal ... Work with design teams to understand the architecture and define DFT needs to help enhance ...

We are looking for a SerDes System Validation Engineer to lead system validation of mixed-signal ... Work with design teams to understand the architecture and define DFT needs to help enhance ...

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System Validation Architect information

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$29

$51

$75

How much do system validation architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for system validation architect in the United States is $51.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.94 and $64.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a system validation architect do?

A System Validation Architect is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the processes that ensure complex hardware and software systems meet all functional and performance requirements before they are released. They develop validation strategies, define test plans, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve issues early in the development cycle. Their role is crucial in ensuring that products are reliable, compliant, and ready for deployment in real-world environments.

How does a system validation architect typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development lifecycle?

A System Validation Architect works closely with hardware, software, and quality assurance teams to define validation strategies and ensure system requirements are met. They coordinate test planning, review product specifications, and provide guidance to ensure all subsystems integrate seamlessly. Effective communication and leadership are essential, as they often facilitate discussions to resolve issues, align validation goals, and support iterative improvements throughout development. This collaborative approach helps in identifying risks early and delivering robust, high-quality systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system validation architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Validation Architect, you need a deep understanding of system architecture, validation methodologies, and experience in hardware/software integration, often backed by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with validation tools, scripting languages (like Python or Perl), simulation environments, and knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help you coordinate across engineering teams and troubleshoot complex issues. These capabilities ensure robust system performance, minimize defects, and enable successful product deployment.

What is the difference between System Validation Architect vs System Test Engineer?

AspectSystem Validation ArchitectSystem Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications like ISTQB or CSTEBachelor's in Engineering or related field, ISTQB certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning validation strategies, overseeing validation processes, collaborating with cross-functional teamsExecuting test cases, reporting defects, validating system functionalities
Industry UsageUsed in industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare for validation planningCommonly found in software, electronics, and manufacturing sectors for testing

The System Validation Architect focuses on designing and overseeing validation processes to ensure systems meet requirements, while the System Test Engineer executes tests and reports issues. Both roles require technical certifications and work closely within product development teams, but the architect has a broader strategic role compared to the hands-on testing of the test engineer.

What are popular job titles related to System Validation Architect jobs?

For System Validation Architect jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various System Validation Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,747 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

SerDes System Validation Engineer

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Apple
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We are looking for a SerDes System Validation Engineer to lead system validation of mixed-signal SerDes IP. In this highly visible role, you will actively work within Analog-Mixed/Signal design team and participate in validation and debug of embedded circuits; collaborating with many teams to enable the world's premiere products. You will closely work with a hard-working group of Analog-Mixed/Signal designers working diligently to deliver hard IPs to Apple's products while exceeding the highest expectations of quality, innovation and efficiency.
At Apple, we work every day to craft products that enrich people's lives. In doing so, we face exciting challenges driven by the increasing complexity of SoC and PHY design. If you have strong technical fundamentals and a proven record of tackling complex problems-fueled by curiosity, a passion for learning, and a desire to enhance the impact of your work-we'd love to hear from you.
If you thrive on understanding the bigger picture while diving deep into the details to innovate and find elegant solutions. You enjoy collaborating with diverse teams to achieve extraordinary results, maintaining a strong team spirit even when facing tough challenges. Most importantly, you care about society and demonstrate leadership through your commitment to meaningful causes.
We have an opportunity for a forward-thinking and especially hardworking system validation engineer with strong background in high-speed serial links. As a member of our dynamic team, you will have the rare and rewarding opportunity to work on upcoming products that will surprise and delight millions of Apple's customers every day.
And all of this while enjoying a great culture where you own your career.
Description
Ownership of SerDes system bring-up, validation and debug. This will involve a SerDes bring up in system environment, verifying basic operations, analyzing robustness and margins in system.
Work with design teams to understand the architecture and define DFT needs to help enhance testability and first-time silicon success.
Be involved in mixed-signal verification tasks to better understand the SerDes operation and interaction with higher level control logic.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum requirement of a bachelors degree.
Preferred Qualifications
Able to think outside of the box and come up with creative solutions for system validation.
Knowledge of system level considerations e.g. ESD requirements.
Very knowledgeable about and experienced with common high-speed SerDes protocols (e.g., PCIe, USB, UCIe, OIF, etc.).
Experience with system bring-up of high-speed serial links, lab testing, and defining equipment needs.
Very knowledgeable in scripting (e.g. python, C, Matlab) for automation of validation efforts.
Experience with system level S/W setup.
Experience in mixed-signal circuit pre-silicon verification and ability to closely work with circuit design team.
Knowledge of DFT to aid in the system validation.
Experience in leading mixed-signal SerDes system validation.
Experience with silicon bring-up, debug and production ramp.
Knowledge of SerDes design and architecture including CDR and equalization.
Knowledge of with Tx/Rx equalization techniques and adaptation.
Knowledge of link jitter budget for high-speed serial links and key block level requirements.
Knowledge of ADC based links and equalization techniques.
Familiarity with PCB design and specifications.
Strong communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Proven track record of delivering under difficult debug and validation scenarios.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976