RFIC Layout Designer: High‑Frequency Analog Expert

SpaceX; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a RFIC Layout Designer to join the RFIC engineering team. You will lead layout for analog and RF blocks on multiple silicon projects, focusing on high-frequency performance and tight matching for space and ground systems.

You will collaborate with ASIC design, firmware, verification and manufacturing teams, drive floorplans, run DRC/LVS checks, and mentor teammates while advancing node layouts from 22nm to 5nm and beyond.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering and 1+ years of professional experience as an IC layout designer; OR 3+ years of professional experience with IC layout design in lieu of a degree.
• Experience in advanced node IC layouts such as 22nm, 16nm, 7nm, 5nm or below.
• Experience in layout of circuits with frequencies up to 50GHz.
• Experience in layout of sensitive RF blocks such as low noise amplifiers, voltage controlled oscillators and mixers.
• Experience with skill programming; Shell scripting, Python or similar language.
• Experience managing revision control systems.
• Experience with circuit design; understanding layout considerations for device matching, coupling and noise isolation.
• Working knowledge of Linux; Excellent communication skills; Able to work independently on challenging problems.

Responsibilities

• Determine the chip floor plan; work with packaging engineer on pad locations.
• Accurately estimate the schedule for the layout work and identify complex areas.
• Layout of custom RF and analog circuit blocks with good matching and minimized parasitics.
• Perform DRC, ERC and LVS checks and resolve errors.
• Integrate top-level layout with ESD structures and pad assembly; perform tape-out checks and density fill.
• Collaborate with EDA suppliers to trial new tools and features.
• Generate guides and demos to share layout improvements with the team.

Skills

Analog layout

RF/mixed-signal design

Skill programming

Shell scripting

Python

Linux

Strong communication

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering

3+ years of IC layout design experience in lieu of degree

Tools

GDSII tools

Calibre

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a RFIC Layout Designer to join the RFIC engineering team. You will lead layout for analog and RF blocks on multiple silicon projects, focusing on high-frequency performance and tight matching for space and ground systems.

You will collaborate with ASIC design, firmware, verification and manufacturing teams, drive floorplans, run DRC/LVS checks, and mentor teammates while advancing node layouts from 22nm to 5nm and beyond.