At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of Process Design Kits and ensure quality in MMIC design.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge semiconductor company focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for leadership and mentoring as the team grows.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of MMIC technology and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; 7+ years in MMIC layout or PDK development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Senior PDK Engineer - Own and advance the design enablement infrastructure that underpins fabrication capability.
Purpose
This is a senior technical role sitting at the intersection of process engineering, MMIC design, and PDK tooling, responsible for the quality and integrity of Process Design Kits, mask artwork, and the design-to-fabrication flow across a portfolio of III-V technologies including GaAs, GaN, and InP. It's a varied role sitting at the forefront of MMIC innovation and manufacturability.
Responsibilities
- Own the development, maintenance, and release of Process Design Kits (PDKs) across multiple compound semiconductor process nodes. This includes design rules, DRC/LVS decks, parameterised cells (PCells), technology files, and the PDK user handbook.
- Lead MMIC layout activities and mask procurement for both internal programmes and external foundry service customers, transforming customer designs into fully arrayed, fabrication-ready reticle designs to schedule and quality.
- Drive reticle designs in support of internal technology development, working in close collaboration with Process and Device Engineering to translate new process capabilities into validated design collateral.
- Chair and facilitate Design Reviews for the acceptance of new mask sets into the FAB, providing authoritative sign-off on layout correctness and design rule compliance.
- Own and evolve Process Control Monitor (PCM) designs in partnership with Device and Process Engineering, ensuring PCM coverage keeps pace with process development.
- Define and implement scripting and automation solutions in ADS and MWO to improve PDK deployment, layout efficiency, and reticle generation workflows.
- Serve as the primary technical interface for external customers using PDKs, and manage relationships with EDA vendors and mask suppliers.
- Act as the internal authority on design-to-fab flow, helping to raise capability and design quality across engineering teams, with scope to grow into a formal leadership or mentoring role as the team expands.
Skills & Experience
- Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related STEM discipline; a postgraduate qualification is advantageous.
- Significant hands-on experience in MMIC layout and/or PDK development within a compound semiconductor environment (GaAs, GaN, or InP), typically 7+ years.
- Proficiency in ADS (Keysight) and/or MWO (AWR/Cadence) as primary layout and design tools.
- Strong scripting and programming capability — Python and/or SKILL/TCL — applied to PDK development, design rule automation, or layout tooling.
- Deep familiarity with DRC/LVS rule deck development and physical verification flows (Calibre or equivalent).
- Proven ability to work across the design-fabrication boundary, comfortable engaging with process engineers on design rule intent as well as with designers on layout implementation.
- Highly detail-oriented with a track record of owning technical documentation to a high standard.
- Strong communication skills; able to represent technical detail clearly to customers and internal stakeholders alike.
Apply or send a CV to imogen@waverecruitment.co.uk
PDK Engineer- MMIC in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Wave Recruitment
As a leading innovator in the semiconductor industry, we offer our PDK Engineers a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and opportunities to lead projects that shape the future of MMIC technology. Located in a vibrant tech hub, we provide competitive benefits and a culture that values work-life balance, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PDK Engineer- MMIC in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your MMIC layout projects and PDK development work. This will give you an edge during interviews and help potential employers see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its technologies, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Practise common interview questions and think about how you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace PDK Engineer- MMIC in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your hands-on experience with MMIC layout and PDK development, as well as your proficiency in ADS or MWO. We want to see how you fit into our world!
Showcase Your Projects:Include specific examples of projects you've worked on that relate to the role. Whether it's developing PDKs or leading design reviews, we love to see how you've made an impact in your previous roles. This helps us understand your practical experience better.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points for key achievements and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to see your strengths!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wave Recruitment
✨Know Your PDK Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of Process Design Kits, especially those relevant to GaAs, GaN, and InP technologies. Brush up on design rules, DRC/LVS decks, and parameterised cells (PCells) so you can confidently discuss your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Scripting Skills
Since scripting and automation are key for this position, be prepared to talk about your experience with Python and SKILL/TCL. Bring examples of how you've used these skills to improve PDK deployment or layout efficiency in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
This role requires working closely with process engineers and external customers. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated across teams, particularly in translating new process capabilities into validated designs.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to dive deep into technical details during the interview. Prepare to discuss your approach to design-to-fabrication flows and how you ensure layout correctness and compliance with design rules. This will show your authority and expertise in the field.
