Analog Layout Automation Engineer

Apple, Inc.; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 158,000 - 281,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement benefits

Employee stock purchase plan

Relocation assistance

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Apple, Inc. is seeking an Analog Layout Automation Engineer in Waltham, MA to drive automation and AI-powered techniques for high-performance AMS layouts.

You will collaborate with circuit designers to convert concepts into silicon, evaluate LVS/DRC issues, and advance workflows with scripting and data-driven insights. The role emphasizes CAD tool expertise (Cadence Virtuoso/Innovus), deep submicron CMOS/FinFET layouts, and strong programming skills to push automation and quality.

Qualifications

• BS and 10+ years relevant industry experience.
• Experience designing analog/mixed-signal layouts in deep-submicron CMOS/FinFET.
• Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and scripting for layout automation.

Responsibilities

• Translate design concepts into silicon using advanced CAD tools.
• Review floor plans, run LVS/DRC/ERC checks, and resolve issues.
• Develop automation scripts and AI/ML-guided layout optimization.

Skills

Python

Shell scripting

TCL

Perl

SKILL language

Automation scripting

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Cadence Virtuoso

Cadence Innovus

PCells

CPython/PyTorch basics

CAD automation tools

Job description

Waltham, Massachusetts, United States Hardware

Join Apple's Silicon Engineering Group (SEG) and be at the forefront of shaping the next generation of Apple's systems-on-chip (SOCs)! Our SOCs, featuring multi-billion transistors, are the heart of iconic devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. We're seeking a highly skilled Analog Layout Automation Engineer to contribute to the evolution of Analog/Mixed-Signal (AMS) circuits, covering SerDes, PLLs, and sensors, with a focus on automation and leveraging AI/ML techniques for improved design and efficiency.

Description

As an Analog Layout Automation Engineer, you’ll convert design concepts into silicon by collaborating with circuit designers and using advanced, including AI-powered, CAD tools to create high-performance analog and mixed-signal layouts. You will review floor plans, analyze circuits, run verification suites, and resolve LVS/DRC/ERC issues to deliver next-generation SOCs. You’ll also drive automation by developing scripts, improving workflows, and applying AI/ML for layout optimization, verification acceleration, advanced modeling, intelligent quality metrics, reduced manual effort, and data-driven design insights.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing analog and mixed-signal layouts in deep-submicron CMOS and FinFET technologies.
• Strong programming/scripting skills in SKILL, Perl, TCL, Shell, and/or Python, with emphasis on layout automation, productivity tooling, and data analysis.
• Solid understanding of supervised and self-supervised learning, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and core training concepts such as loss functions, backpropagation, and optimization.
• Hands-on experience with PyTorch for model development and experimentation.
• Demonstrated ability to automate layout tasks, flows, and quality checks using scripting and CAD tools.
• Proven record in implementing high-quality analog layouts with tight device matching, low noise, and low power consumption.
• Familiarity with failure-prone circuit/layout structures, analog and DFM best practices, and the ability to diagnose and resolve layout-related issues.
• Strong proficiency in custom and standard-cell floor planning, hierarchical layout assembly, and physical integration.
• Understanding of image processing fundamentals, spatial representations, multi-channel image handling, segmentation, and object detection concepts.
• Technical understanding of IR drop, RC delay, electromigration, self-heating, coupling capacitance, and related reliability concerns.
• High proficiency in interpreting physical verification reports, including DRC, ERC, and LVS.
• Experience using advanced Cadence Virtuoso features (XL, EAD, APR, Constraint Manager), and familiarity with Cadence Innovus.
• Experience with CAD automation workflows and PCell creation.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $157,700 and $280,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace
Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.