Cisco

ASIC Design Hardware Engineer - SDC/STA (Hybrid)

Cisco • $155K — $222K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical/Computer Engineering with relevant ASIC experience.
  • Proficient in synthesis (e.g., Synopsys DC/DCG/FC) and STA tools (e.g., Primetime).
  • Knowledge of HDL (Verilog/SystemVerilog) and scripting languages (Shell, Perl, TCL).
  • Strong experience in digital design concepts focusing on clocking and timing exceptions.
  • Hands-on experience with block and full-chip SDC development in functional and test modes.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with design teams to create and enhance block-level and full-chip SDCs.
  • Develop and validate timing constraints for clocking structures prior to physical design.
  • Create methodologies to efficiently promote SDCs from block level to full-chip and vice versa.
  • Ensure timing constraint correctness early in the design cycle to improve quality.
  • Review and refine block-level SDCs and clocking diagrams in collaboration with RTL owners.
  • Contribute to comprehensive full-chip clocking design and associated documentation.
  • Engage in optional block-level RTL design or top-level IP integration.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on next-generation networking chips.
  • Dynamic team environment fostering innovation and collaboration.
  • Exposure to industry-standard tools and methodologies in ASIC design.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 09/24/2026
This position requires that you live within commuting distance of our San Jose, CA office and commute to the office 4-5 days per week.

Your Impact

You are a diligent Design/SDC Engineer with strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of timing constraints, including clock groups, exceptions, and clock exclusivity. Proficient in industry-standard SDC/STA tools and scripting for automation, you excel at identifying and resolving timing issues across all design levels. You will develop timing constrains at both block level and full-chip and validate them using industry standard timing constraints verification tools such as TCM, Timevision. You will collaborate with Front-end and Back-end teams to understand chip architecture and guide them in refining design and timing constraints for seamless physical design closure. As part of this team, you'll contribute to developing next-generation networking chips.
  • Being a member of design team who develops block level and full-chip SDCs and works with physical design and DFT teams to close full-chip timing in multiple timing modes.
  • You will work design and architecture teams in understanding clocking structure, develop timing constraints and validate them though constraints verification tool before releasing them for physical design.
  • Option to also do block level RTL design or block or top-level IP integration.
  • Helping develop efficient methodology to promote block level SDCs to full-chip, and to push down full-chip SDCs to block level.
  • Helping develop and apply methodology to ensure correctness and quality of SDCs as early as possible in design cycle.
  • Reviewing block level SDCs and clocking diagrams and collaborate with RTL design owners on SDC development.
  • Contribute to full-chip clocking design including diagrams and related documentation.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering with 4+ years of ASIC or related experience or Master's Degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering with 2+ years of ASIC or related experience.
  • Experience with synthesis tools (eg. Synopsys DC/DCG/FC), STA tools such as Primetime and must have knowledge of HDL such as Verilog/SystemVerilog programming, and scripting languages such as Shell, Perl, and must have strong experience scripting with TCL.
  • Experience with digital design concepts (eg. clocking, timing exceptions and async boundaries).
  • Experience with block/full chip SDC development in functional and test modes.
  • Experience with microarchitecture and RTL implementation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Effective documentation, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.
  • Experience working cross-functionally and collaborating with various technical teams.
  • You are a problem solver who loves to tackle new challenges and a self-starter who is highly motivated and thrives on innovative technology.
  • You are a strong communicator in a team setting, enjoy working in a dynamic team environment, and are an out-of-the-box thinker.

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.
Learn more about Cisco
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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