Quantum PDK Engineer

Job Title

Quantum PDK Engineer

Role Summary

Technical contributor in the Quantum Technology Solutions organization responsible for developing Process Design Kits (PDKs), compact models, and design enablement infrastructure for quantum devices and associated cryogenic control/readout integrated circuits.

Work at the intersection of device physics, modeling, and EDA to translate quantum device technology into manufacturable, validated design environments.

Experience Level

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

Responsibilities

Key duties include PDK development, modeling support, validation, automation, and cross-functional enablement.

• Develop, deploy, and maintain PDKs (tech files, model files, rule decks, runtime code) for quantum devices and cryogenic control/readout ICs.
• Create device libraries and parameterized cells (PCells) translating process rules and SPICE/model specifications into design-ready implementations.
• Support compact model development, parameter extraction, and correlation across TCAD, silicon data, and cryogenic characterization.
• Integrate and validate PDKs within EDA environments (LVS/DRC, simulation flows) and develop automation tools representing fab processes.
• Design test structures and test chips and develop validation plans for silicon correlation and model accuracy.
• Develop and execute QA workflows, including DRC/LVS test cases and release validation.
• Analyze device and circuit data to identify variability, reliability risks, and performance trends; support yield learning and root-cause analysis.
• Create and maintain PDK documentation (release notes, application notes, known issues) and provide usage guidance to design teams.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with device, process, integration, and EDA teams to align enablement with technology capabilities.
• Contribute ideas that may lead to intellectual property or improved design enablement methodologies.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience for immediate contribution.

• Approximately 5–6+ years of experience 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.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (Python, Tcl, Perl) and Unix/Linux environments.
• Strong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skills; detail-oriented and self-motivated.
• Effective written and verbal communication and teamwork skills.

Nice-to-have:

• Cadence SKILL, PCell development, and PDK architecture experience.
• TCAD simulation and compact model correlation background.
• Familiarity with variability modeling, SPC, or statistical analysis methods.
• Experience with cryogenic electronics, low-temperature device behavior, or quantum/superconducting devices.
• Experience working with EDA vendors or applying ML/AI to modeling and EDA workflows.

Education Requirements

BS required; MS preferred in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.

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.