Device Modeling Engineer

Power Integrations; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Power Integrations is seeking a Device Modeling Engineer to develop, validate, and release compact models for silicon and GaN/WBG devices. The role bridges device physics, characterization, and circuit-level simulation to enable first-time-right silicon and robust product definitions.

The ideal candidate has deep expertise in semiconductor device physics, hands-on model extraction, and experience collaborating across device, IC design, and applications teams to drive predictive design across

Qualifications

• Requires advanced degree in electrical engineering with emphasis on semiconductor devices.
• Demonstrated track record in device modeling for Si and GaN/WBG technologies.
• Experience with model extraction, characterization, and validation workflows.
• Familiarity with high-voltage device modeling and electro-thermal effects.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and release device models and libraries for Si and GaN/WBG technologies.
• Define plans for device characterization and model extraction using electrical/thermal measurements.
• Conduct device- and circuit-level simulations to validate model accuracy against measurements.
• Support new device architectures, process tech, and cross-team integration across IC design and applications.

Skills

Semiconductor device physics

Device modeling

Model extraction

High-voltage device understanding

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering

MS in Electrical Engineering

BS in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Cadence/Spectre

Job description

The Device Modeling Engineer is responsible for the development, validation, and release of accurate device models and cells for silicon (Si) and wide-bandgap (WBG) power devices, supporting Power Integrations’ product development and technology roadmap. This role is critical in bridging device physics, characterization, and circuit-level simulation to enable first-time-right silicon, robust product definition, and predictive design across multiple power platforms. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in semiconductor device physics, hands-on characterization, and model extraction, with a strong ability to collaborate across device, IC design, product engineering, and applications teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Device Modeling & Model Development
  • Develop, maintain, and release device models and model libraries for Si and WBG (GaN) technologies across multiple voltage and power ranges
  • Create compact models suitable for circuit simulation (SPICE-level) and system-level design
  • Ensure models accurately capture static, dynamic, thermal, and transient behavior across operating conditions
  • Support development of next-generation GaN and high-voltage technologies through predictive modeling
• Characterization & Parameter Extraction
  • Define and execute device characterization plans for model extraction
  • Perform electrical and thermal measurements, including switching behavior, loss mechanisms, and parasitic effects
  • Extract model parameters using measurement data and ensure correlation across:
    • Process corners
    • Temperature and voltage extremes
    • System operating conditions
  • Drive improvements in measurement methodologies and test setups
• Simulation & Validation
  • Perform device-level and circuit-level simulations to validate model accuracy
  • Correlate simulation vs. measured data and identify discrepancies
  • Work closely with IC design teams to ensure models are:
    • Accurate for design
    • Efficient for simulation
    • Robust across use cases
  • Support validation for new product introductions (NPI) and technology releases
• Technology & Product Support
  • Provide modeling support for new device architectures and process technologies
  • Evaluate electrical and thermal characteristics of GaN and high-voltage power devices
  • Support failure analysis, reliability studies, and qualification activities from a modeling perspective
  • Contribute to design reviews and risk assessments for new products
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Collaborate closely with:
    • Device engineering
    • IC design and layout teams
    • Product and test engineering
    • Applications engineering
  • Ensure models meet internal design needs and external customer requirements
  • Support key customer engagements requiring model validation or customization
• Model Infrastructure & Continuous Improvement
  • Maintain and enhance modeling flows, libraries, and documentation
  • Improve automation for parameter extraction, validation, and release processes
  • Drive best practices for model quality, version control, and deployment

Qualifications

• Education & Experience
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (semiconductor devices preferred)
  • Typical experience:
    • Ph.D. + 3+ years, OR
    • M.S. + 6+ years, OR
    • B.S. + 8+ years
  • Proven track record in device modeling for Si and/or WBG technologies
• Technical Skills
  • Deep understanding of:
    • Semiconductor device physics (Si and GaN strongly preferred)
    • Device operation, parasitics, and switching behavior
  • Strong experience with:
    • Model extraction and development
    • High-voltage device characterization and test systems
    • CADENCE or equivalent simulation tools (Spectre/SPICE)
  • Familiarity with:
    • Compact modeling methodologies
    • Electro-thermal modeling
    • Behavioral modeling for system simulation