Principal Engineer, Design Enablement PDK — Device Library Developer for Silicon Photonics

Job Title

Principal Engineer, Design Enablement PDK — Device Library Developer for Silicon Photonics

Role Summary

Develop and maintain Process Design Kit (PDK) device libraries and Cadence PCELLs to enable photonic device layout, verification, and automation for internal test sites and external customers. Work with process, modeling, and EDA teams to translate process rules and SPICE models into robust, production-ready PDK components.

Experience Level

Senior-level role (Principal). Senior engineering experience expected.

Responsibilities

The role focuses on PDK and device library development, automation, verification, and customer-facing documentation.

• Develop device-library components and Cadence PCELLs for silicon photonics PDKs.
• Create, deploy, support, and maintain PDK collections, tech files, and runtime code for EDA tools.
• Support layout design activities for internal test sites and customer layouts.
• Develop and maintain automation tools that represent the fab process and enable PDK workflows.
• Review process design rules and SPICE model documentation and convert them into PDK specifications.
• Create and maintain test cases for PDK DRC/LVS and perform quality assurance checks for deliveries.
• Produce and update release notes, application notes, and known-issues documentation for PDK components.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams; contribute technical ideas that may lead to trade secrets or patents.

Requirements

Must-have skills, attributes, and core qualifications (education specifics are listed under Education Requirements).

• Strong technical problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Fluent English, both written and verbal.
• Good interpersonal skills; able to work tactfully in a team environment.
• Self-motivated, resourceful, organized, and shows initiative.
• Experience with PDK workflow, device library development, or EDA tool integration is highly desirable.

Nice-to-have / preferred

• Experience with CAD tools (Cadence IC/Virtuoso, OrCAD, Protel or similar).
• Familiarity with scripting languages (Perl, Tcl, Bash) and Cadence Skill programming.
• Previous work with Unix/Linux environments.
• Knowledge of silicon photonics, ML/GenAI techniques applied to EDA, or semiconductor device theory.

Education Requirements

Required or equivalent: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience. Preferred education/experience mixes listed include BS + 4–5 years, MS + 2–4 years, or PhD + 1–2 years in relevant disciplines.

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.