Principal Analog IC Designer

Job Title

Principal Analog IC Designer

Role Summary

Design and develop analog/mixed-signal IC circuit blocks from concept and specification through final verification to meet customer requirements. Primary focus on long-reach SerDes and high-speed I/O circuit design.

The role requires close collaboration with layout, system, and test teams to deliver validated silicon and support lab characterization.

Experience Level

Senior level. The posting requests a minimum of 5 years' experience in CMOS SerDes or high-speed I/O design.

Responsibilities

Core responsibilities include architecture, circuit design, verification, and support for silicon bring-up:

• Architect, design, and verify analog/mixed-signal SerDes and related high-speed I/O blocks from specification to sign-off.
• Develop and run circuit simulations and post-layout verification; iterate designs based on results.
• Specify and implement jitter and signal equalization techniques in transmit/receive paths.
• Work with layout engineers to ensure timing, signal integrity, and physical constraints are met.
• Support lab testing, characterization, and debug of prototypes and production devices.
• Collaborate across cross-functional teams to meet product requirements and schedules.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience, followed by desirable qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in development of CMOS SerDes or high-speed I/O ICs.
• Thorough understanding of jitter, timing, and signal equalization techniques.
• Proven design experience in most of these SerDes circuit blocks: driver (TX), receiver (RX), serializer, deserializer, phase interpolator, low-jitter PLL, high-speed clock distribution, ADC/DAC, bias/bandgap, and voltage regulators.
• Proficiency using CAD tools for circuit simulation and post-layout verification.
• Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Nice-to-have: working knowledge of common SerDes standards and their electrical requirements.
• Nice-to-have: layout entry skills, Cadence tool experience, lab test experience, and prior designs at ≥16 Gbps and in ≤16 nm technologies.

Education Requirements

M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (as stated in the posting).

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.