Engineer Design Enablement PDK — Device Library Developer (Silicon Photonics)

Job Title

Engineer Design Enablement PDK — Device Library Developer (Silicon Photonics)

Role Summary

Develop and maintain Process Design Kit (PDK) device libraries and Cadence PCELLs to support silicon photonics design and customer layouts. The role supports internal testsite layout activities, creates automation and runtime toolchains for EDA environments, and produces test cases and documentation for PDK releases.

Work within a cross-functional design enablement team to translate process rules and SPICE models into specification data, ensure quality of DRC/LVS deliverables, and document known limitations and solutions.

Experience Level

Mid-level. The posting does not specify years of experience.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include:

• Develop device library components for PDKs and implement Cadence PCELLs for photonic devices.
• Support and perform layout design tasks for internal testsites and customer layouts.
• Develop, deploy, maintain, and support PDKs: tech files and runtime code for EDA tools.
• Create and maintain automation tools that represent the fab process for designers and flows.
• Review and interpret process design rules and SPICE model documentation to produce PDK specification data.
• Create and execute test cases for PDKs, DRC, and LVS; perform quality assurance to ensure correct deliveries.
• Write and update release notes and application notes documenting limitations, issues, and workarounds.

Requirements

Must-have and preferred skills. Education items are summarized separately in the Education Requirements section below.

• Strong technical problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Fluent English (written and verbal) and effective teamwork/interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, resourceful, and able to show initiative.
• Experience with electronic CAD systems (Cadence IC/Virtuoso, OrCAD, or similar) — preferred.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (Perl, Tcl, Bash) and Unix/Linux environments — preferred.
• Experience or exposure to Cadence Skill programming, Virtuoso layout/schematic workflows — preferred.
• Knowledge of silicon photonics, device modeling, or ML/Generative AI applications — desirable.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, Physics, Computer Science, or equivalent technical field; or equivalent practical experience. Preferred postings reiterate a technical university degree in these fields (exceptions may be approved by local HR).

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.