Based on publicly available sources, Cohu, Inc. is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: COHU) global electronics manufacturing company headquartered in Poway/San Diego, California, specializing in semiconductor test and inspection equipment. With a global footprint of around 2,200 to 3,000 employees across roughly 19 offices, the company operates within a highly cyclical industry. Workforce data shows total headcount declining slightly by 5.6% between 2023 and 2026 (hovering around 2,861 employees), though active job postings increased significantly in 2026.
Regarding workplace dynamics and management, public data indicates a split environment. Leadership and management features strengths in strategic planning and transparent communication, though this is balanced by uneven middle-management consistency and a limited definition of long-term targets.
On the compensation and benefits front, the company offers a comprehensive package highlighting retirement support, equity access, and broad time-off policies, alongside corporate mentions of profit sharing and continuous learning programs. However, employee experiences point to challenges regarding pay growth, incentive reliability, and consistency of benefits across different locations, meaning the true value of the compensation package depends heavily on an individual's specific role and location.
Financially and operationally, the company demonstrates strengths in back-end test-cell positioning and a high recurring revenue mix, which is tempered by GAAP losses and ongoing exposure to cyclical demand and competitive pressures in core tester and handler markets.
Interviewed here recently?
Share the stages, timing, or a memorable question to help the next candidate prepare for COHU INC.