Principal Microelectronics Architect

Principal Microelectronics Architect (SME)Remote (U.S.) | Full-Time | Secret Clearance RequiredPosition: Principal Microelectronics Architect (SME)Location: Remote (Periodic On-site Support as Needed)Category: Hardware Engineering / Systems ArchitectureClearance Requirement: U.S. Citizenship Required; Active Secret ClearanceEducation Requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline (Master's or PhD preferred)Experience Requirement: 10+ Years in Microelectronics Design, Semiconductor Development, or IP ArchitecturePosition OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Principal Microelectronics Architect to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting a critical government-sponsored microelectronics modernization initiative. This role will provide technical leadership in the development of a secure, collaborative design environment focused on advancing semiconductor innovation, intellectual property reuse, and next-generation design workflows.The selected candidate will work within a highly technical team responsible for defining architecture, standards, and governance models that support the development and integration of advanced microelectronics technologies. This position offers the opportunity to influence long-term strategy while working closely with government stakeholders, industry partners, and engineering teams across the semiconductor ecosystem.The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in microelectronics design, silicon IP, system-on-chip (SoC) architecture, FPGA technologies, and semiconductor design workflows, along with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and executive audiences.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Technical LeadershipServe as a trusted technical advisor supporting the development of secure, cloud-enabled microelectronics design environmentsProvide expertise in semiconductor design methodologies, silicon IP reuse, and design ecosystem modernizationGuide architectural decisions that support long-term scalability, interoperability, and sustainabilityIntellectual Property Management & GovernanceDevelop and validate standards for managing reusable design IP repositoriesEstablish best practices for secure integration and lifecycle management of commercial and government-developed IP assetsAssess technical risks, licensing considerations, and long-term sustainability of IP portfoliosSupport governance strategies that promote efficient IP sharing and collaborationDesign Flow & Technology IntegrationEvaluate and optimize semiconductor design workflows across modern engineering environmentsSupport the integration of foundry-qualified design flows and advanced packaging technologiesPromote interoperability across multiple vendors, toolchains, and semiconductor platformsIdentify opportunities to accelerate development timelines and improve engineering productivityTechnical Assessments & Program ExecutionConduct technology evaluations and produce technical assessment reportsDeliver recommendations related to design infrastructure, tool interoperability, and ecosystem scalabilitySupport milestone reviews and provide technical briefings to program leadership and stakeholdersContribute to strategic roadmaps that support future program growth and modernization effortsStakeholder CollaborationCoordinate requirements and technical activities across government organizations, industry partners, research institutions, and engineering teamsFacilitate collaboration among stakeholders focused on semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging, and testingBuild consensus around standards, processes, and technical directionRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline10+ years of experience in microelectronics design, semiconductor development, FPGA design, or System-on-Chip (SoC) architectureDeep understanding of silicon IP development, integration, validation, and reuse methodologiesExperience evaluating and managing third-party intellectual property within complex hardware environmentsFamiliarity with industry-standard Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, including:CadenceSynopsysSiemens EDAUnderstanding of cloud-enabled design environments and collaborative engineering workflowsStrong knowledge of semiconductor design processes and technology development lifecyclesExceptional technical writing, documentation, and presentation skillsAbility to communicate complex technical concepts to both engineering teams and executive leadershipU.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearancePreferred QualificationsActive Secret clearance or higher preferredExperience supporting government-sponsored microelectronics programsFamiliarity with trusted semiconductor manufacturing and supply chain assurance initiativesExperience with advanced packaging technologies and chiplet architecturesKnowledge of modern semiconductor fabrication processes and foundry ecosystemsFamiliarity with radiation-hardened, high-reliability, or mission-critical electronicsExperience supporting collaborative research and development initiatives involving government, industry, and academiaKnowledge of leading semiconductor foundries and advanced process technologiesBenefits OverviewTAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance.Paid Time Off: 15–25 days of PTO annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays with no use-it-or-lose-it policyRetirement Benefits: Up to a 15% employer contribution to your 401(k) through a combination of company match and profit-sharingComprehensive Medical Coverage: Employer-paid medical insurance for employees, with optional enhanced plans and dependent coverage availableDental & Vision Insurance: Employer-paid dental and vision coverage with optional buy-up plansTuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 annually for approved degree programs, certifications, and continuing education opportunitiesWellness & Employee Support Programs: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness incentives, virtual healthcare services, prescription savings programs, and travel assistance resourcesAdditional Employee Perks: Access to employee discount programs and other company-sponsored benefitsPerformance-Based Recognition: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and employee referral bonuses designed to reward contributions and successWhy Join Us?This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of microelectronics design and collaboration within a highly visible national-level initiative. You'll work alongside industry and government leaders, influence next-generation design environments, and contribute to the development of technologies that will impact critical systems for years to come.The role begins with an initial six-month technical engagement focused on architecture definition, standards development, and technology assessments. Successful completion of Phase 1 is expected to lead to a five-year follow-on effort, providing the opportunity to serve as a technical lead for a major microelectronics modernization initiative and help shape its long-term architecture, standards, and implementation strategy.