At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of AI-focused ICs and mentor junior engineers.
- Company: Next-gen design house specialising in AI and semiconductor technologies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, share options, bonus, and excellent pension contributions.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with high autonomy and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of digital design with real ownership and impact.
- Qualifications: Experience with tape out and solid SoC design understanding.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 80000 £ per year.
Base salary £55,000-£80,000 (DOE) + share options + bonus and excellent pension contribution. Join a company who are building a next-generation design house focused on AI, advanced compute, and emerging semiconductor technologies. This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage and define how digital design is done, technically and culturally.
You’ll support and lead the development of AI and compute-focused ICs, working from architecture through RTL to silicon and have the opportunity to support and mentor the 6 graduates within the group. This role is well suited to someone motivated by the opportunity to give back to the industry sharing their experience, mentoring the next generation, and helping shape the growth of an emerging company. It will appeal most to individuals driven by impact, ownership, and legacy, rather than those primarily focused on compensation.
Why This role is different:
- Foundational impact – shape the technical direction and standards from day one
- Real ownership – no layers of management, no waiting for instructions
- Variety of work – customer projects + in-house IP development
- Startup agility – fast decisions, minimal bureaucracy, high trust
What you’ll be doing:
- Define digital architectures for AI accelerators, data paths, and SoC subsystems
- Run synthesis, STA, and DFT using industry-standard digital design tools
- Lead design reviews and help establish best practices and design flows
- Support tapeout and bring-up, including hands‑on silicon validation
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to building team capability
- Contribute to internal IP development alongside customer delivery
What they’re looking for:
- Experience with a tape out
- Solid understanding of SoC design and PPA trade‑offs
- Confident working across the full design lifecycle
- Comfortable taking ownership and making technical decisions
- Strong communication skills and team mindset
- DSP, CPU/GPU/NPU is advantageous but not essential
What you’ll get:
- The chance to build something from the ground up
- Work on cutting‑edge AI and compute silicon
- High autonomy and real technical ownership
- A collaborative, engineering‑led culture
- Opportunity to shape both technology and team
You will be required to work onsite, ideally 4-5 days per week initially to support the graduates. On offer is a base salary up to £80,000 + shares + bonus + an excellent pension scheme. You must have UK working rights.
Lead ASIC Design Engineer - AI Compute & Tapeout in Cardiff employer: IC Resources
Join a pioneering design house at the forefront of AI and semiconductor technology, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape both the technical direction and the culture from the ground up. With a strong emphasis on mentorship and collaboration, this role offers not only competitive compensation but also a chance to make a lasting impact in a dynamic startup environment that values innovation and agility. Experience a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and fosters a sense of ownership and legacy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead ASIC Design Engineer - AI Compute & Tapeout in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant meetups, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your experience with AI and compute-focused ICs. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for mentoring! Since this role involves guiding junior engineers, be ready to discuss how you’ve supported others in the past. We want to see that you’re not just about the tech, but also about building a strong team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our company from the get-go.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead ASIC Design Engineer - AI Compute & Tapeout in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Lead ASIC Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience in AI, SoC design, and any mentoring you've done. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to show us your passion for the role and the impact you want to make. Share your vision for shaping the future of digital design and how your experience can help us achieve that. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, don’t shy away from detailing your technical expertise. Mention specific tools and methodologies you’ve used in the design lifecycle, especially around tapeout and silicon validation. We love seeing candidates who are confident in their abilities!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IC Resources
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ASIC design, especially in AI and compute. Be ready to discuss your experience with tapeouts and SoC design, as well as any specific projects you've worked on that relate to the job description.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring junior engineers, be prepared to share examples of how you've supported or guided others in your previous roles. Highlight any experiences where you've taken ownership of a project or made significant technical decisions.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are key for this position. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to convey ideas effectively to both technical and non-technical team members. Think about how you can demonstrate your collaborative mindset during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Impact
This company is looking for someone driven by impact and legacy. Prepare to discuss how your work has made a difference in your previous roles and how you envision contributing to the company's growth and culture. Show them you're not just about the paycheck!
