Analog Layout Automation Engineer

Apple Inc.; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Apple Inc. is seeking an Analog Layout Automation Engineer in Massachusetts to shape next-generation SOCs by converting circuit concepts into silicon using AI-powered CAD tools.

You will review floor plans, run verifications, and drive automation to enhance layout efficiency and quality, with a focus on low-noise, low-power analog/mixed-signal designs. You will collaborate with circuit designers across the Silicon Engineering Group, leverage Cadence tools, and apply data-driven insights to

Qualifications

• BS degree in Electrical Engineering with at least 10 years of relevant industry experience.
• Experience designing analog/mixed-signal layouts in deep-submicron CMOS and FinFET technologies.
• Strong programming/scripting skills (Python, TCL, SKILL) and CAD tool automation for layout.

Responsibilities

• Translate circuit concepts into silicon layouts with Cadence tools and verification suites.
• Develop scripts and automate flows to improve layout productivity and data-driven design insights.
• Review LVS/DRC/ERC results and resolve layout issues to deliver next-generation SOCs.

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering

Job description

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.

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.