Cisco

AI-Driven ASIC Physical Design Principal Engineer

Cisco$250K — $362K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 15+ years of ASIC experience, Master’s with 12+ years, or PhD with 7+ years.
  • Proficient in Python and experienced in using AI tools effectively through precise prompting.
  • Built MCP-based wrapper layers for connecting AI (Claude) to EDA tools (Innovus, ICC2, Calibre) for live interactions.
  • Experienced in developing EDA copilots or AI-assisted design tools, with knowledge of Docker and containerized environments.
  • Familiar with machine learning-driven placement and routing, OpenAI APIs, and vector databases like Pinecone or Weaviate.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with physical design teams to identify automation opportunities.
  • Benchmark LLM-generated outputs against established ground truths for design quality assessment.
  • Oversee the entire developer loop from prototyping to production, with an emphasis on reducing design cycles.
  • Develop PnR workflows enabling Claude to autonomously adjust placement, routing, and timing based on tool feedback.
  • Create RAG pipelines indexing internal design documents and checklists for AI reference.
  • Write Tcl bridge scripts to convert AI suggestions into executable commands for EDA tools.
  • Construct prompt architectures to correctly interpret and analyze timing reports, DRC logs, and power outputs.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) plan with company matching to support retirement savings.
  • Flexible work schedules and potential remote work opportunities for better work-life balance.
  • Professional development programs to enhance skills and career growth.
  • [Note: Additional benefits may apply, but are not listed in the job description.]
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/30/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Your Impact
  • Collaborate with physical design teams to identify high-value automation targets: timing triage, Congestion root-cause analysis, floorplan suggestions.
  • Evaluate and benchmark LLM-generated outputs against ground truth for Design QoR, timing impact, and sign-off compliance.
  • Own the full developer loop: prototype → eval → production - with a focus on measurable design cycle reduction.
  • Build agentic PnR workflows where Claude iterates autonomously on placement, routing, and timing constraints based on tool feedback loops.
  • Create RAG pipelines that index internal PDKs, design rule documents, sign-off checklists, and runbooks for Claude to reference.
  • Write and maintain Tcl bridge scripts that translate Claude's suggested fixes into executable EDA tool commands.
  • Develop prompt architectures that accurately interpret STA timing reports, DRC logs, congestion maps, and power analysis outputs.


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 15+ years of ASIC related experience, Master's degree in Engineering and 12+ years of ASIC related experience, or PhD in Engineering and 7+ years of ASIC related experience.
  • Experience with Python and effectively leveraging AI tools through accurate prompting to enhance productivity.
  • Experience designing and building an MCP-based wrapper layer connecting Claude to live EDA tools (Innovus, ICC2, Calibre) for real-time copilot interactions.
  • Experience developing EDA copilots or AI-assisted design tools, along with experience in Docker and containerized EDA environments.
  • Experience with machine learning driven placement and routing (MLPD / ML-driven PnR), and OpenAI APIs (e.g., GPT-4o, o3) and vector databases such as Pinecone or Weaviate


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with RTL2GDSII flow and design tapeouts in 7nnm/5nm/3nm or below process technologies.
  • Experience working with EDA tools like Innovus, Tempus/Primetime, Redhawk/Voltus or Calibre/Pegasus.

About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
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Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
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