SoC Physical Design Engineer
QualcommJob Title
SoC Physical Design Engineer
Role Summary
Responsible for physical implementation and optimization of SoC subsystems: synthesis, place-and-route, timing closure, power implementation, and sign-off. Works with cross-functional teams to achieve PPA targets and deliver tape-outs on advanced process nodes. May manage complex subsystems and lead a small engineering team.
Experience Level
Senior. The posting expects experienced engineers; the job description cites 8–15 years in physical design. The employer also lists alternative minimums tied to degree level (see Education Requirements).
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead physical implementation for complex subsystem/SoC designs (synthesis, place-and-route, timing closure, sign-off).
- Perform Static Timing Analysis (STA) and sign-off optimizations to meet timing and power targets.
- Implement low-power techniques including UPF flows, multi-voltage domains, and power gating.
- Integrate IP blocks and manage constraints/configuration for multi-IP designs.
- Drive methodology and flow improvements in ASIC physical design and sign-off.
- Collaborate with circuit designers, verification, and system teams to resolve PPA and manufacturability issues.
- Lead or mentor small teams and coordinate subsystem tape-out activities.
- Develop or apply automation to improve PPA and design turnaround.
Requirements
Essential skills and experience:
- Significant hands-on experience in place-and-route, synthesis, timing closure, and sign-off optimization for complex SOCs.
- Experience managing complex subsystems and leading small engineering teams.
- Practical experience with low-power implementation (UPF, multi-voltage domains, power gating).
- Strong understanding of ASIC physical design flows, constraints, and methodology.
- Knowledge of circuit design, device physics, and deep sub-micron process challenges; experience with multiple tape-outs on advanced nodes is expected.
- Experience with IP integration, PPA-driven trade-offs, and automation to improve design efficiency.
Education Requirements
The posting specifies one of the following: Bachelor's in Computer Science, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Engineering, or related field (typical minimum with 6+ years' relevant experience); OR Master's in those fields (with ~5+ years); OR PhD in those fields (with ~4+ years). The job description also cites a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering with 8–15 years in physical design. Equivalent practical experience is accepted where noted.
About the Company
Company: Qualcomm
Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States
Qualcomm is a global leader in semiconductor and telecommunications equipment, specializing in mobile technologies and innovations. Known for its Adreno GPUs, the company provides solutions enabling advancements in mobile gaming, AI, VR/AR, and autonomous driving. Qualcomm's cutting-edge technology and commitment to high-performance, power-efficient designs drive the evolution of mobile graphics and connectivity worldwide.
