Engineer, Design Enablement PDK

Job Title

Engineer, Design Enablement PDK

Role Summary

The PDK Engineer develops, validates, maintains and supports Process Design Kit (PDK) components and associated automation used by Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools. The role translates process requirements, design rules and SPICE model documentation into reliable PDK artifacts, test cases and technical documentation.

Works with process, modeling, design enablement and customer-facing teams to ensure accurate, stable PDK releases and clear guidance for users.

Experience Level

Mid-level; the posting does not specify years of experience.

Responsibilities

Core responsibilities include development, validation, release and support of PDKs and related automation:

• Develop PDK design components, technology files and runtime code for EDA tools.
• Build, maintain and deploy automation used in PDK development, validation and releases.
• Create and maintain test cases and flows for DRC, LVS and parasitic extraction (PEX).
• Perform quality assurance checks and regression testing to ensure release stability.
• Investigate PDK defects, identify root causes and implement corrections with technical teams.
• Review and translate process design rules and SPICE model documentation into specifications and data for PDKs.
• Produce and update release notes, application notes and technical documentation covering usage and limitations.
• Provide technical support for PDK deployment, integration and customer use; collaborate with internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of development methods, automation and test coverage.
• Perform work in a safe manner and support Environmental, Health, Safety & Security programs.

Requirements

Key skills and experience required or strongly preferred.

• Must-have: Practical knowledge or experience in semiconductor design enablement, PDK development, IC design, physical verification or EDA application engineering.
• Understanding of semiconductor process technology, IC design flows and PDK structures.
• Programming or scripting skills for engineering automation, data processing, testing or tool integration.
• Ability to interpret design-rule documentation, technology specifications and SPICE model information.
• Strong analytical, debugging, documentation and problem‑solving skills with attention to release quality.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional technical teams and communicate technical information clearly.
• Nice-to-have: Hands-on experience with DRC, LVS or PEX flows.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Microelectronics, Physics or a related technical field.

About the Company

Company: GlobalFoundries

Headquarters: Saratoga Springs, New York, USA

GlobalFoundries is a leading contract manufacturer for the global semiconductor industry, with facilities in multiple countries, including the USA. The company develops a broad portfolio of semiconductor technologies and employs around 13,000 people worldwide. GlobalFoundries focuses on enhancing competitiveness in specialized application solutions and fostering innovation in mobile communications, consumer electronics, and automotive applications.