CMOS Layout Design Engineer – High-Speed Logic & Photonics
A well-funded deep-tech semiconductor company is developing next-generation computing and connectivity technologies that combine advanced CMOS design with integrated photonics.
The organization is building highly complex silicon platforms designed to overcome performance and efficiency limitations in modern computing systems. Their multidisciplinary engineering teams work across IC design, photonics, packaging, and systems engineering to develop cutting-edge hardware for emerging compute-intensive applications.
We are seeking a CMOS Layout Design Engineer to join a growing IC design team focused on custom layout development for high-speed analog, mixed-signal, and photonic integrated circuits.
Role Overview
This role is responsible for full-custom CMOS layout development from block-level implementation through top-level integration and tape-out.
The engineer will work closely with circuit designers to optimize layouts for performance, noise, reliability, and manufacturability while supporting advanced CMOS technologies and monolithically integrated photonic components.
This position requires strong expertise in analog and mixed-signal layout techniques, physical verification, and tape-out execution within advanced semiconductor processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop full-custom layout for analog, mixed-signal, and high-speed circuit blocks
- Perform block-level and top-level physical integration activities
- Apply advanced layout methodologies including device matching, common-centroid placement, symmetry techniques, shielding, and critical-net routing
- Optimize layouts to minimize parasitic effects and maximize circuit performance
- Support integration of photonic structures within CMOS process technologies
- Participate in floorplanning, routing strategy, and physical design reviews
- Implement ESD structures, I/O ring integration, and padframe layouts
- Execute physical verification flows including DRC, LVS, parasitic extraction, and tape-out signoff
- Collaborate closely with design engineers to resolve layout-driven performance issues
- Support engineering change orders and late-stage design modifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline
- 5+ years of experience in custom CMOS layout design
- Strong experience with analog and mixed-signal layout techniques
- Expertise in device matching, symmetry, common-centroid structures, and parasitic-aware layout practices
- Experience with advanced CMOS process technologies
- Proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso Layout XL/GXL
- Experience with physical verification tools such as Calibre or equivalent
- Familiarity with parasitic extraction and tape-out methodologies
- Experience implementing ESD structures and pad frame integration
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with high-speed logic or mixed-signal circuits
- Exposure to photonic integrated circuits or silicon photonics technologies
- Knowledge of reliability considerations including electromigration, IR drop, and latch-up prevention
- Experience with SKILL, Python, or layout automation methodologies
- Prior experience supporting advanced-node tape-outs
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary ($190K-$210K) and bonus opportunity
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement savings program
- Generous paid time off
- Opportunity to work on industry-leading semiconductor and photonics technologies
- Collaborative environment with strong technical ownership and career growth opportunities
CMOS Layout Engineer, Custom Layout Engineer, Analog Layout Engineer, Mixed-Signal Layout Engineer, Physical Layout Engineer, IC Layout Engineer, Custom IC Layout, Cadence Virtuoso, Calibre, DRC, LVS, PEX, Tape-Out, Analog IC Design, Mixed-Signal IC Design, Semiconductor Design, Silicon Photonics, Photonic Integrated Circuits, High-Speed Logic