Quantum PDK Engineer

Job Title

Quantum PDK Engineer

Role Summary

This role develops and maintains Process Design Kits (PDKs), compact models, and design-enablement infrastructure for quantum device platforms and associated cryogenic control/readout ICs. The engineer works across device physics, process integration, modeling, and EDA teams to deliver validated, manufacturable design collateral.

Experience Level

Mid-level — approximately 5–6+ years of relevant experience in semiconductor design enablement, PDK development, or EDA.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities focus on producing production-ready PDKs and ensuring their integration and validation within EDA flows.

• Develop, deploy, and maintain PDK components: tech files, model files, rule decks, runtime code.
• Create device libraries and parameterized cells (PCells) from process rules and model specs.
• Support compact model development, parameter extraction, and correlation with TCAD and silicon/cryogenic data.
• Integrate and validate PDKs in EDA environments (DRC/LVS, simulation) and build automation tooling for flows.
• Design test structures and test chips; develop and execute validation and release plans.
• Develop QA workflows including DRC/LVS test cases and release validation.
• Analyze device and circuit data to identify variability, reliability risks, and performance trends; support root-cause analysis.
• Produce and maintain PDK documentation and communicate guidance to users.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with device, process, integration, and EDA teams.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience plus a set of preferred qualifications that improve fit.

Must-have:

• Approximately 5–6+ years in semiconductor design enablement, PDK development, or EDA.
• Strong knowledge of semiconductor device physics and electronic devices.
• Experience with EDA tools and design flows (e.g., Cadence Virtuoso or similar).
• Experience with device modeling, test structures, and silicon validation.
• Proficiency with scripting (Python, Tcl, Perl) and Unix/Linux environments.
• Strong analytical, debugging, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with Cadence SKILL, PCell development, and PDK architectures.
• Background in TCAD simulation and compact model correlation.
• Familiarity with variability modeling, SPC, or statistical analysis methods.
• Experience with cryogenic electronics, low-temperature device behavior, or quantum devices.
• Experience working with EDA vendors or enabling custom design flows.
• Knowledge of ML/AI techniques applied to modeling or EDA workflows.

Education Requirements

BS required; MS preferred. Relevant fields: Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, Physics, Computer Science, or related technical disciplines. Equivalent practical experience may be considered.

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.