Principal Applications Engineer

Job Title

Principal Applications Engineer

Role Summary

Customer-facing engineering role in Applications Engineering focused on AI-driven RTL-to-GDSII design flows and methodology development for advanced-node silicon. You will work with customers, R&D, and product teams to implement and optimize flows that meet aggressive performance, power, and area targets.

Experience Level

Senior — 8+ years of relevant experience in semiconductor design/EDA or similar engineering roles.

Responsibilities

Deliver customer-facing technical solutions, enable adoption of Synopsys tools, and lead technical mentorship and knowledge transfer.

• Develop and implement AI-driven RTL-to-GDSII methodologies using Synopsys tools and automation (Tcl/Python).
• Create and optimize design flows to achieve PPA targets for high-frequency cores, automotive, and AI/compute designs.
• Deploy and integrate solutions leveraging Fusion Compiler, RTL Architect, and AI-based design optimization engines.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with customers, R&D, and product teams to drive feature and solution development.
• Lead, mentor, and coach junior application engineers; manage technical deliverables and escalations.
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations, application notes, and best-practice guidance to stakeholders.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and professional capabilities.

• Deep understanding of RTL-to-GDSII flows and backend physical implementation practices.
• Hands-on experience with backend P&R tools (e.g., Fusion Compiler, ICC2, or equivalent).
• Expertise in physical synthesis, timing closure, clock tree synthesis (CTS), and routing at advanced technology nodes (2nm/3nm/5nm).
• Proficiency in Tcl and Python for EDA workflow automation and methodology optimization.
• Proven ability to lead technical accounts, mentor engineers, and manage multiple customer engagements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills for customer and internal audiences.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field (as stated in the source).

About the Company

Company: Synopsys

Headquarters: Mountain View, California, USA

Synopsys is a leading company in electronic design automation (EDA) and semiconductor IP solutions. It provides tools and services for designing and verifying complex semiconductor devices and systems. The company plays a pivotal role in the semiconductor industry, helping engineers innovate and deliver higher-quality products faster. Synopsys is committed to advancing technology standards and offers a range of software and hardware solutions to its clients globally.