Principal Digital Design Engineer

Astera Labs; Toronto; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Principal Digital Design Engineer to drive the development of high-performance connectivity solutions. This role involves designing and implementing cutting-edge digital solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and owning block-level and full-chip designs. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in RTL development, synthesis, and timing closure, along with hands-on expertise in processor IP and embedded design. Join a team that values creativity and diversity, and make a significant impact in the world of AI and cloud infrastructure.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of digital design experience with a focus on processor and full chip implementation.
• Proven expertise in RTL development and synthesis with strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement high-performance digital solutions, including RTL development.
• Collaborate on IP integration for networking Serdes and Controller IPS.

Skills

RTL development

Synthesis

Timing closure

Digital design

Micro-architecture

Embedded design

System Verilog

Python scripting

Pre-silicon and post-silicon implementation

Education

Bachelor’s in Electronics/Electrical Engineering

Master's in Electronics/Electrical Engineering

Tools

Synopsys tools

Cadence tools

Job description

Astera Labs is a global leader in purpose-built connectivity solutions that unlock the full potential of AI and cloud infrastructure. Our Intelligent Connectivity Platform integrates PCIe, CXL, and Ethernet semiconductor-based solutions and the COSMOS software suite of system management and optimization tools to deliver a software-defined architecture that is both scalable and customizable. Inspired by trusted relationships with hyperscalers and the data center ecosystem, we are an innovation leader delivering products that are flexible and interoperable. Discover how we are transforming modern data-driven applications at www.asteralabs.com.

We are seeking a Principal Digital Design Engineer with deep expertise in high-performance controller and bridge design, micro-architecture, RTL implementation, and IP integration. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in the development of cutting-edge connectivity solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement high-performance digital solutions, including RTL development and synthesis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on IP integration for networking Serdes and Controller IPS, processor and peripherals.
• Own block-level and full-chip designs from architecture to GDS, focusing on designs at nodes ≤ 16nm.
• Utilize tools from Synopsys/Cadence for design and emulation.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s in Electronics/Electrical engineering (Master's preferred).
• 12+ years of digital design experience, with 4+ years focused on processor, peripherals and full chip implementation.
• Proven expertise in RTL development, synthesis, and timing closure.
• Experience with front-end design, gate-level simulations, and design verification.
• Strong work ethic, ability to handle multiple tasks, and a proactive, customer-focused attitude.

Required Expertise:

• Hands-on experience with processor IP (ARM/ARC) and/or Serdes/PHY IP.
• Hands-on pre-silicon and post-silicon implementing peripherals for I2C/SPI/UART.
• Hands-on experience FW interaction and embedded design.
• Strong proficiency in System Verilog/Verilog and scripting (Python/Perl).
• Experience with block-level and full-chip design at advanced nodes (≤ 16nm).
• Top level integration and DFT knowledge.

Preferred Experience:

• Chip design and integration of networking or NIC ASICs.
• Understanding of PAD design, DFT, and floor planning.
• Experience with NIC, switch, or storage product development including embedded FW.
• Familiarity with working in design and verification workflows in a CI/CD environment.

We know that creativity and innovation happen more often when teams include diverse ideas, backgrounds, and experiences, and we actively encourage everyone with relevant experience to apply, including people of color, LGBTQ+ and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities.