CAD Tools Specialist

Ciena Corporation; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 87,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative technology company is seeking a passionate CAD Engineer to enhance semiconductor design processes. In this role, you will develop and optimize Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools while collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve chip design workflows. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and contribute to significant advancements in the semiconductor industry. Join a forward-thinking organization that values flexibility and personal growth, and be part of a team that drives meaningful social impact while fostering an inclusive work environment.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(K) with company matching

Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)

Paid sick leave

Vacation time

Company-paid holidays

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience managing CAD tools and flows.
• Strong expertise in EDA tools and automation scripting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize EDA tool flows for IC design.
• Automate circuit/layout design methodologies to enhance productivity.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Scripting (Python, Perl, TCL)

Knowledge of VLSI design

Debugging skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree in Computer Engineering

Tools

EDA tools (Synopsys, Cadence, Siemens)

Automation tools

Process Design Kits (PDKs)

Job description

Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers an individual’s passions, growth, wellbeing and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How You Will Contribute:

Ciena R&D hardware organization is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced prime CAD Engineer. As a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Engineer, you will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools, flows, and methodologies used in semiconductor design. You will collaborate with layout and design teams to enhance efficiency, automation, and productivity in chip design workflows.

In this role you will:

• Develop, customize, and support EDA tool flows for IC design (logic synthesis, physical design, verification, etc.).
• Automate circuit/layout design methodologies to improve productivity and ensure consistency across projects.
• Work closely with chip design primes to understand their requirements and implement efficient CAD solutions.
• Debug and optimize circuit/layout design flows.
• Evaluate and integrate new EDA tools to stay ahead of industry advancements.
• Develop/implement scripts to introduce new functionality within CAD tools or to automate processes.
• Support and troubleshoot issues with foundry PDKs (Process Design Kits) and technology files.
• Work with process technology nodes (e.g., TSMC N5/N3, Intel 18A) to ensure CAD tools are compatible with advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Provide documentation and training to design teams on best practices for CAD tools and methodologies.

The Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in managing and supporting CAD tools.
• Strong expertise in EDA tools from Synopsys, Cadence, Siemens, or similar vendors.
• Experience with scripting and automation using Python, Perl, batch, Cadence Skill or TCL.
• Knowledge and ability to harness AI tools for design, layout, etc.
• Knowledge of VLSI design, digital and analog IC design flows.
• Familiarity with physical design, DRC/LVS verification and place & route tools.
• Understanding of semiconductor process technologies and fabrication challenges.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills in CAD environments.
• Strong communication skills to interact with cross-functional teams.

The Assets:

• Familiarity with IT infrastructure
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Self-motivated, strong work ethic, and well organized
• Team player, works effectively with others in a multi-disciplinary team

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is $87,300 - $139,500.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

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At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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