A verification engineer is, essentially, the Sherlock of the engineering world: solving problems and identifying issues before they become issues. All facets of engineering require quality control, and the verification engineer provides this with keen analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.

At BMR Solutions, we are specialists in finding the best engineering and technical jobs in the UK. We’ve put together this job spotlight to help you decide whether becoming a verification engineer is the right career path for you.

What is a Verification Engineer?

Working on a wide variety of projects, a verification engineer is an essential component in any product development timeline. By developing testing processes that determine whether a product performs as required pre-launch, the verification engineer works to debug software, or to ensure that a product works to customer expectation before mass production begins.

A fair amount of pressure is assigned to the role, as their go-ahead is required to begin expensive processes. In-depth knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering is a must-have, and the ability to apply that knowledge to a variety of analytical issues is essential.

Verification happens at a variety of touchpoints, whether it’s at the register-transfer level (RTL), the sub-system level or the top-level, a verification engineer needs to be prepared to assess and evaluate a product at any level of development.

Verification Engineer Job Description

The role of a verification engineer will vary depending on what industry they are based in. In general, a verification engineer will be required to:

  • Meet with design teams to determine functionality protocols.
  • Assess product designs and make note of likely points of failure.
  • Design verification methodology based on assessment findings.
  • Determine requisite environment and verification tools.
  • Compare methods to existing engineering criteria for similar products.
  • Build & calibrate testing tools & electrical instruments.
  • Tweak & improve processes already in place.
  • Hold quality control inspections.
  • Train QC staff.
  • Write up final test reports.

Education & Work Experience Requirements

Applicants tend to have a fair amount of experience prior to training for verification. Most positions will require:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
  • Years of proven engineering/verification experience.
  • Strong knowledge of production processes.
  • Specification level checks for variety of protocols (AXI, DDRx, PCI, USBx, etc.)
  • Experience carrying out quality control procedures.
  • An understanding of mechanical & electrical testing systems.
  • Excellent analysis skills.
  • Ability to troubleshoot thoroughly.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Attention to detail.

Verification Engineer Skillset

A full skillset will be needed to complete many tasks in day-to-day operations. It is a demanding role with a good deal of responsibility associated with it. Take the time to look through job specifications online to find greater insight into the roles available. As there’s a lot of variety in individual roles, we’ve gathered some of the key skills that many verification engineers possess.

Handling Pressure

Successful verification engineers will be confident handling tight deadlines, difficult questions and overall responsibility for a product’s success. As a result, it’s critical that anyone looking to become a verification engineer is calm under pressure and ready to be assertive when making tricky decisions.

Capable of Complex Analysis

While there is variation depending on sector, a strong background in scripting with Python, Perl, Bash, et cetera is mandatory. You’ll also need design technique knowledge with tools like Verilog or VHDL. A good knowledge of simulation flow & strong communicative skills, both written and orally is also mandatory.

Good Teamwork Skills

You’ll rarely be working alone – the verification engineer works in tandem with design teams to complete a project efficiently. Knowing when to delegate tasks or when to seek advice on a topic is a key skill for the role.

Organisational Skills

On any given project, there’ll likely be hundreds of moving parts to keep an eye on all at once. It’s crucial that you’re able to confidently manage a whole host of different things simultaneously. While it might sound stressful, this does mean that you’ll be kept on your toes and no two days will be the same!

Passion for Sector

As with many roles, finding something that you love is invaluable when it comes to job satisfaction. One of the benefits of becoming a verification engineer is that there’s such a wide range of sectors to work in! It might take some time to find exactly what you’re looking for, but the perfect role is out there.

Verification Engineer Salary

Pay for the role varies depending on level of experience and the size of the organisation hiring. Generally, the roles pay quite well, with verification engineers earning around £30,000 to £50,000+.

As verification engineers are considered high-value roles, competent, experienced individuals will often be able to negotiate working hours and rate of pay successfully.

Find the perfect role for you with BMR Solutions

If you’re looking to find a role as a verification engineer, or if you’re looking for something similar, BMR Solutions specialise in electrical, mechanical and manufacturing; we’re confident that we can help in finding your perfect role.

Whether you’re looking to start your engineering career, or progress to your next step, our passionate experts are ready to answer any questions you have. Get in touch with a member of our team today.