RF Layout Engineer

RF Layout Engineer

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Wave Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create innovative RF layouts and collaborate on cutting-edge semiconductor projects.
  • Company: Leading compound semiconductor company expanding GaN technology platforms.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation support, and opportunities for career progression.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in RF technology and enjoy hands-on experience.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Electronics or Physics, strong CAD skills, and RF layout interest.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with high levels of technical ownership.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

We are looking for people with electronics and CAD knowledge who are interested in moving into RF layout and design OR direct RF layout experience. This is a new position for an MMIC Layout Engineer to strengthen the link between circuit design, device physics, and manufacturing. You’d be joining a leading compound semiconductor company expanding its GaN technology platforms across RF and power applications. It’s a hands-on role in a manufacturing-led environment, where layout decisions directly affect RF performance, thermal behaviour, yield, and long-term reliability.

The role includes:

  • Producing MMIC layouts for GaN and compound semiconductor processes from schematic and design intent
  • Applying and providing feedback on PDK design rules driven by thermal, breakdown, and reliability limits
  • Creating arrayed die and full reticle layouts for mask manufacture
  • Preparing and releasing mask data to fabrication partners
  • Supporting design and mask reviews prior to fab release
  • Maintaining and updating Process Control Monitor (PCM) and test structures
  • Supporting technology development masks and experimental process splits
  • Working closely with Device and Process Engineering on layout structures impacting RF performance and lifetime
  • Tracking process updates and ensuring layouts remain aligned to current manufacturing capability

Key knowledge and experience required:

  • Degree in Electronics, Physics, or similar
  • Strong CAD and physical layout experience
  • Understanding of how layout impacts RF behaviour, breakdown, and thermal performance
  • Familiarity with manufacturing release flows and documentation standards
  • Comfortable working in detail-driven, production-facing environments
  • Exposure to RF, MMIC, GaN, or other III–V technologies is strongly beneficial
  • Strong silicon layout engineers with RF interest and willingness to learn compound processes will be considered

What’s on offer:

  • Competitive salary with relocation support
  • Long-term investment strategy in GaN and RF technology platforms
  • High levels of technical ownership and real product impact
  • Good progression within a scaling company

RF Layout Engineer employer: Wave Recruitment

Join a pioneering compound semiconductor company in North East England as an RF Layout Engineer, where you will play a crucial role in advancing GaN technology platforms. With a competitive salary, relocation support, and a strong focus on employee growth, you'll thrive in a collaborative, hands-on environment that values technical ownership and innovation. This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact while developing your skills in a dynamic and supportive workplace.
Wave Recruitment

Contact Detail:

Wave Recruitment Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land RF Layout Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the RF and semiconductor fields on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to get your name out there and show your interest in the industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your CAD skills and understanding how layout impacts RF performance. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your answers.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your passion for RF layout! Create a portfolio of any relevant projects or coursework that highlights your skills. This can really set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your hands-on experience.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace RF Layout Engineer

Electronics Knowledge
CAD Knowledge
RF Layout Experience
MMIC Layout Design
GaN Technology Understanding
Thermal Performance Analysis
Manufacturing Release Flows
Process Control Monitoring (PCM)
Mask Data Preparation
Device and Process Engineering Collaboration
Detail-Driven Work Ethic
Familiarity with III–V Technologies
Strong Communication Skills
Willingness to Learn

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your electronics and CAD knowledge in your application. We want to see how your experience aligns with RF layout and design, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!

Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Mention specific experiences that relate to MMIC layouts or GaN technology, as it shows us you’re genuinely interested in the position.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly!

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at Wave Recruitment

✨Know Your RF Basics

Make sure you brush up on your RF principles and how layout decisions impact performance. Understanding the relationship between layout, thermal behaviour, and reliability will show that you're not just familiar with CAD but also with the nuances of RF design.

✨Show Off Your CAD Skills

Be ready to discuss your experience with CAD tools and how you've applied them in previous projects. If you have examples of layouts you've created, bring them along or be prepared to talk through your process. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and technical knowledge.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company's GaN technology platforms and their approach to MMIC layouts. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.

✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills

Since this role involves collaboration with Device and Process Engineering, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams. Emphasising your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively will make you a more attractive candidate.

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