Principal Engineer - Device Modeling & Characterization

Job Title

Principal Engineer - Device Modeling & Characterization

Role Summary

Lead Device Modeling QA and automation efforts to deliver production-ready SPICE models across multiple PDKs. Drive OneGF QA standards, scalable QA infrastructure, and tool automation to ensure model accuracy, robustness, and cross-simulator consistency.

Experience Level

Senior role. The posting specifies B.E/B.Tech + 4–6 years or M.E/M.Tech/MS + 2–4 years of relevant experience; the title indicates a senior/lead engineering level.

Responsibilities

Deliver and operationalize SPICE model QA across technologies and tools.

• Define and own SPICE Model QA strategy and roadmap across multiple PDKs.
• Accept end-to-end QA sign-off for complex PDK releases, ensuring coverage across devices, corners, and simulators.
• Architect and implement scalable QA automation frameworks and infrastructure for high simulation volumes.
• Develop and maintain automation and EDA tool integrations for model validation.
• Run and validate simulations (DC/AC, transient, S-parameters, reliability) for active and passive devices.
• Enable and validate multi-simulator flows (Spectre, HSPICE/PrimeSim, AFS, GoldenGate, ADS) and ensure cross-tool consistency.
• Investigate and resolve convergence, accuracy, and model inconsistency issues; perform deep root-cause analysis.
• Interface with EDA vendors to drive tool enhancements and resolve critical issues.
• Collaborate with Modeling and PDK teams to integrate validated models into PDK releases.
• Mentor and coach engineers; prepare technical reports and recommendations.

Requirements

Must-have skills and experience for the role.

• Must-have: Strong Python-based automation experience (frameworks, scripting) for EDA workflows.
• Must-have: Practical experience with SPICE model QA and semiconductor device physics (MOSFETs and related devices).
• Must-have: Familiarity with Perl and Shell scripting for automation tasks.
• Must-have: Experience with CAD/PDK tools and flows (Cadence Virtuoso, Calibre, StarRC) and PDK development lifecycle.
• Must-have: Experience validating models across multiple simulators and debugging simulation issues.
• Must-have: Ability to design and operate scalable automation infrastructure for large simulation datasets.
• Must-have: Experience mentoring engineers and working directly with EDA vendors.
• Nice-to-have: RF modeling experience; familiarity with AI/ML methods for automation.
• Nice-to-have: Strong written/verbal communication and planning/organizational skills.

Education Requirements

Degree required: B.E/B.Tech or M.E/M.Tech/M.S in Electronics / Electrical Engineering with specialization in Microelectronics, semiconductor devices, or a related field. The posting specifies experience benchmarks of B.E/B.Tech + 4–6 years or M.E/M.Tech/MS + 2–4 years.

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.