Senior Layout Engineer in Essex

Location: Stansted, UK / Ottawa, Canada

Our Team

Semtech’s High-Speed IC Design team is a group of highly skilled engineers dedicated to developing next-generation analog ICs for datacentres, 5G wireless networks, and fibre-to-the-home applications. We leverage deep expertise in transimpedance amplifiers (TIAs) and laser drivers (LDs) to deliver innovative solutions that power global communication infrastructure.

Job Summary

The Senior Analog Layout Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end layout of high-speed ICs, including transimpedance amplifiers and laser drivers, from initial floorplan through to tape-out. This role involves leadership of the layout team, close collaboration with design engineers, and ensuring delivery of high-performance, manufacturable IC designs that meet project objectives.

Responsibilities

• Own chip layout end-to-end, including top-level floorplan and RF block layout, ensuring clean GDS and all required collateral for manufacturing release (40%).
• Lead RF layout of critical blocks, working closely with design engineers to implement optimised circuits that meet timing, performance, and reliability targets (20%).
• Coordinate and guide the layout team, including remote contributors, setting priorities, providing technical direction, and tracking delivery against schedule (15%).
• Interface with Marketing, Applications, Test, Validation, and Reliability teams to finalise and distribute chip-level floorplans and die footprints (10%).
• Collaborate with EDA teams on foundry PDK management and drive continuous improvement in layout performance and efficiency (10%).
• Perform other relevant tasks as assigned (5%).

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Communication Engineering.
• 8+ years’ experience in analog layout design, including 3+ years at high-frequency (10 GHz+).
• Deep understanding of CMOS/BiCMOS analog layout practices, parasitics, electromigration, IR drop, device matching, ESD, and latch-up.
• Expert proficiency in layout development and verification tools, including Cadence Virtuoso and Mentor Graphics Calibre (LVS/DRC/PEX).
• Proven track record of delivering chip-level layout and owning the tape-out process.
• Demonstrated leadership in task delegation, team coordination, and project tracking.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in high-speed IC layout at frequencies of 25 GHz and above.
• Proficiency in automation scripting (SKILL, Python, Perl, Shell) to enhance layout efficiency.
• Expertise in layout and optimisation of high-frequency passive components such as T-coils and inductors.
• Foundational understanding of common IC circuit topologies.
• Strong structured thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills.

Career Growth Philosophy

At Semtech, we believe that innovation starts with people. We are committed to empowering professional development through mentorship, continuous learning resources, and a collaborative, idea-rich engineering environment. Our pay-for-performance culture rewards initiative, encourages growth, and recognises meaningful technical and leadership contributions. Engineers in this role are supported to expand their influence, deepen their expertise, and shape both their career progression and the future of Semtech’s digital engineering capabilities.

Additional Notes

The intent of this job description is to describe the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically included in this description. All duties and responsibilities are essential job.