At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of Process Design Kits and ensure quality in MMIC design.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge semiconductor company at the forefront of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with potential for leadership roles as you grow.
- Why this job: Be a key player in advancing technology and shaping the future of MMIC fabrication.
- 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.
Own and advance the design enablement infrastructure that underpins fabrication capability. 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.
- 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.
PDK Engineer- MMIC employer: Wave Recruitment
As a leading innovator in the semiconductor industry, our company offers a dynamic work environment where PDK Engineers can thrive. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and collaboration, we provide opportunities for professional development and leadership roles, all while working with cutting-edge technologies in a supportive culture that values creativity and excellence. Located in a vibrant tech hub, our team enjoys access to a wealth of resources and networking opportunities, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PDK Engineer- MMIC
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that PDK Engineer gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with MMIC layout and PDK development. Share specific examples of your work to really impress them.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about asking questions during interviews. This shows your interest and helps you understand if the role is right for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to demonstrate your knowledge about design-to-fab flows and PDK tooling.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented engineers like you. It’s a straightforward way to get your application noticed and start your journey with us at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace PDK Engineer- MMIC
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, and don’t forget to mention your proficiency in ADS or MWO!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about MMIC innovation and how your background makes you a perfect fit for this role. Keep it concise but impactful.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t just list your technical skills; provide examples of how you’ve applied them in past roles. Whether it’s scripting in Python or developing DRC/LVS decks, we want to see your expertise in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
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. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Scripting Skills
Since scripting and automation are key parts of this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with Python or SKILL/TCL. Bring examples of how you've used these skills to improve PDK deployment or layout efficiency. This will demonstrate your technical capability and problem-solving approach.
✨Prepare for Design Reviews
Understand the process of chairing design reviews and what it entails. Be ready to talk about your experience in leading such reviews, ensuring layout correctness, and compliance with design rules. Highlight any instances where you’ve successfully managed stakeholder expectations during these reviews.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms, as you’ll need to interact with both technical teams and external customers. Being able to convey your ideas clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
