Design Engineer
Cadence Design SystemsJob Title
Custom Layout Design Engineer
Role Summary
Design and implement custom IC layouts for high-speed mixed-signal physical interfaces and analog blocks. Own floorplanning, placement and routing strategies to meet signal integrity, noise and power distribution targets while ensuring verification and manufacturing rule compliance.
Experience Level
Entry-level / Early career — minimum 2 years of relevant analog/custom layout experience.
Responsibilities
Primary responsibilities focus on custom layout implementation, verification, and cross-team coordination.
- Create custom layout floorplans and top-level hierarchy for blocks and power domains.
- Implement matching guides, resistor/capacitor placement, and routing for sensitive and mixed-signal nets to reduce coupling and noise.
- Layout for high-speed mixed-signal PHYs (SerDes, USB, DDR, etc.).
- Run and respond to DRC/LVS/ERC checks and perform EMIR analyses; recommend and implement fixes.
- Collaborate with analog circuit designers and digital P&R teams to ensure manufacturable, high-quality layouts.
Requirements
Required skills and experience; preferred items noted separately.
- Proficient with layout edit and verification tools such as Virtuoso XL and Pegasus/Calibre (DRC/LVS).
- Experience with EMIR tools, e.g., Voltus-FI, and interpreting EMIR results.
- Hands-on experience performing DRC/LVS/ERC and EMIR analysis and driving corrective actions.
- Fundamental understanding of IC design technology, process, and methodology.
- Demonstrated teamwork, self-motivation, and effective communication skills in English.
Nice-to-have:
- Experience with PERC runs.
- FinFET layout experience.
- ESD/latch-up experience.
- Prior cooperation with digital place-and-route teams.
Education Requirements
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) required, with 2+ years of applicable analog/custom layout experience.
About the Company
Company: Cadence Design Systems
Headquarters: San Jose, California, USA
Cadence Design Systems is a global electronic design automation company that provides software, hardware, and intellectual property for designing advanced semiconductor chips. With over 25 years in the industry, Cadence is known for its innovative technology solutions and has been recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For. The company is dedicated to solving complex technical challenges in order to enable customers to create revolutionary products and experiences.
