Senior Application Engineer, CMOS Image Sensor

Samsung Semiconductor • San Jose, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Our technology solutions power the tools you use every day--including smartphones, electric vehicles, hyperscale data centers, IoT devices, and so much more. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to be part of a global leader whose innovative designs are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and powering the future.

We believe innovation and growth are driven by an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We’re dedicated to empowering people to be their true selves. Together, we’re building a better tomorrow for our employees, customers, partners, and communities.

Samsung Semiconductor is hiring now for a Senior CIS Application Engineer. You will join a dynamic team focused on developing and validating cutting-edge CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) technologies and the complete imaging pipeline they power. Your expanded role will involve not just sensor characterization, but also establishing objective and subjective image quality standards. You’ll collaborate across design, process and product engineering to ensure that CIS devices meet stringent technical specifications and exceed end-user visual expectations across the entire system. This position offers opportunities to define holistic test methodologies and drive product innovation in advanced imaging systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, or Master’s with 3+ years or PhD with 0+ years of experience.
• Strong understanding of CIS operation principles, including pixel, readout chain, ADC behavior, and the full imaging pipeline (Optics, Sensor, ISP).
• Hands-on experience with image sensor characterization, test system operation, and standardized image quality lab environments (light booths, test charts).
• Knowledge of optical measurement techniques and evaluation under both dark and illuminated conditions.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar platforms, ideally paired with experience using professional IQV software like Imatest.
• Familiarity with industry standards for objective image quality measurement.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A proactive mindset and strong attention to detail when working in cross-functional environments.
• You’re inclusive, adapting your style to the situation and diverse global norms of our people.
• An avid learner, you approach challenges with curiosity and resilience, seeking data to help build understanding.
• You’re collaborative, building relationships, humbly offering support and openly welcoming approaches.
• Innovative and creative, you proactively explore new ideas and adapt quickly to change.

Responsibilities

• Establish objective evaluation criteria and subjective perceptual measurement methodologies for the full imaging system (CIS devices, PKG, modules, and ISP output) under dark and light conditions.
• Conduct detailed characterization and performance analysis.
• Analyze test results to identify trends, anomalies, and potential root causes of image performance issues, spanning hardware defects to ISP.
• Work closely with design and process team to provide feedback and propose improvements for image sensor and overall system performance.
• Develop and automate test flows for consistent and efficient evaluation using standard programming languages and specialized IQV software tools (e.g., Imatest).
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry image quality standards.
• Communicate results effectively to cross-functional teams and management stakeholders.
• Act as the primary technical contact person for customers, addressing their technical questions and concerns.
• Serve as a bridge between the customer and internal engineering/product development teams, conveying customer feedback and advocating for necessary fixes or improvements.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues promptly, often involving embedded hardware and software debugging in camera systems.

Benefits

• Give Back With a charitable giving match and frequent opportunities to get involved, we take an active role in supporting the community.
• Enjoy Time Away You’ll start with 4+ weeks of paid time off a year, plus holidays and sick leave, to rest and recharge.
• Care for Family Whatever family means to you, we want to support you along the way—including a stipend for fertility care or adoption, medical travel support, and virtual vet care for your fur babies.
• Prioritize Emotional Wellness With on-demand apps and free confidential therapy sessions, you’ll have support no matter where you are.
• Stay Fit Eating well and being active are important parts of a healthy life. Our onsite Café and gym, plus virtual classes, make it easier.
• Embrace Flexibility Benefits are best when you have the space to use them. That’s why we facilitate a flexible environment so you can find the right balance for you.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees