Cisco

ASIC Physical Design Engineer II (Full Time) - United States

Cisco • $111K — $203K *
Telecommunications & Hardware
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's degree with no experience or Bachelor's degree with 2 years of experience in ASIC Physical Design or related field.
  • Foundational knowledge of ASIC physical design and implementation flows from academic projects or internships.
  • Understanding of physical design concepts like floor planning and power distribution.
  • Exposure to the physical design lifecycle, including logic synthesis and timing closure.
  • Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, Tcl, Perl) for automation.

Responsibilities

  • Own and drive RTL-to-GDSII implementation for advanced semiconductor nodes.
  • Define and execute hierarchical floor planning and timing strategies.
  • Perform static timing analysis and develop automated scripts within STA tools.
  • Implement and manage timing ECO strategies using tools like Tweaker/PrimeTime.
  • Analyze quality gaps and recommend improvements in tools and methodologies.
  • Collaborate with RTL, DFT, and EDA vendors to enhance design efficiency.
  • Evaluate new timing methodologies and provide debugging solutions.

Benefits

  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and tools in semiconductor design.
Full Job Description
Please note this posting is to advertise potential job opportunities. This exact role may not be open today but could open in the near future. When you apply, a Cisco representative may contact you directly if a relevant position opens.

Applications accepted until further notice.

Your Impact

As a Physical Design Engineer, you will play a key role in the full RTL-to-GDSII implementation flow for advanced semiconductor nodes. You will optimize floor planning and timing, analyze and improve backend design flows, and collaborate across teams to ensure the successful delivery of high-performance networking chips. You will:

  • Own and drive RTL-to-GDSII implementation for advanced nodes (sub-16nm to 3nm).


  • Define and execute hierarchical floor planning, place and route, clock and power distribution, and timing convergence strategies.


  • Perform static timing analysis (STA), setup reviews, and sign-offs for multi-mode/multi-corner designs; develop automated scripts within STA tools.


  • Implement and manage timing ECO strategies using tools like Tweaker/PrimeTime.


  • Analyze quality and efficiency gaps, recommend tool, flow, and methodology improvements.


  • Collaborate with RTL, DFT, EDA vendors, and tool owners to drive design and implementation efficiency.


  • Evaluate and implement new timing methodologies; provide creative debugging solutions.


  • Contribute to best practices and drive methodology alignment across projects.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Meet one of the following (completed within the past 3 years or expected to be completed within the next 12 months):


-A Master's degree with 0 years of work experience; or

-A Bachelor's degree with 2 years of work experience.

  • Qualifying education and work experience should be in ASIC Physical Design, ASIC design, engineeringor a related field.


  • Foundational knowledge of ASIC physical design and implementation flows gained through academic projects, internships, or relevant coursework.


  • Understanding of physical design concepts, including floor planning, clock tree synthesis, power distribution, and I/O planning.


  • Exposure to the physical design lifecycle, including logic synthesis, placement, routing, and basic timing closure.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python, Tcl, or Perl for task automation and data analysis.


  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard EDA tools (e.g., Cadence Innovus, Synopsys ICC2, or Synopsys Design Compiler) through lab work or internships.


  • Familiarity with physical verification processes (DRC/LVS) using tools such as Mentor Calibre or Synopsys ICV.


  • Exposure to static timing analysis concepts and tools, such as PrimeTime.


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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