The RoleWe are seeking a Senior ASIC Physical Design Engineer to help implement advanced SoCs that power next-generation satellite and space systems. In this role, you will contribute to the full physical design flow-from synthesis to GDSII-working closely with architecture, RTL, verification, and packaging teams. You'll be a key contributor in achieving timing closure, optimizing PPA, and supporting design integration with external partners. You will be part of a collaborative design team developing state-of-the-art mixed-signal SoCs to be hosted on some of the largest, most powerful, rapidly designed and rapidly manufactured satellites ever deployed in space. In your first 6 months, you will develop and implement new SoC sub-systems for satellite communications and beyond. In your first two years, you will have contributed to developing cutting-edge SoCs that will fly in space.
Responsibilities - Execute the complete physical design flow for complex SoC blocks and top-level integration, including synthesis, floorplanning, place & route, CTS, STA, and physical verification.
- Perform timing closure and optimization across multiple corners and modes using industry-standard tools.
- Collaborate with front-end, verification, and DFT teams to ensure clean handoff and predictable convergence.
- Work with external physical design service providers and internal leads to review deliverables, resolve issues, and ensure schedule alignment.
- Develop and maintain scripts and automation to improve flow efficiency and consistency.
- Support physical sign-off activities including DRC/LVS, IR drop, EM, and power analysis.
- Assist in chip-level integration, ECOs, and tapeout preparation.
- Contribute to methodology development, tool evaluation, and flow documentation.
- Support your product through production and spaceflight.
Required Qualifications - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
- 5-10 years of experience in ASIC physical design for complex SoCs.
- Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools (Synopsys ICC2/Fusion Compiler, Cadence Innovus, or equivalent).
- Strong understanding of timing analysis, power optimization, and physical verification flows.
- Experience with hierarchical or flat SoC design methodologies.
- Familiarity with FinFET technologies.
- Working knowledge of DFT, UPF/CPF power intent, and ECO implementation.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work cross-functionally in fast-paced environments.
Preferred Qualifications - Exposure to radiation-hardened or space-qualified ASICs.
- Experience with chip-package co-design or advanced packaging (2.5D/3D).
- Familiarity with physical design service vendor management or offshore collaboration.
- Experience with sign-off through TSMC.
- Experience with Gate-All-Around technologies.
- Experience working in cross-functional, geographically distributed teams.
Compensation and Benefits:- Base salary range for this role is $170,000 - $250,000 + equity in the company
- Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
- Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision/ coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks
If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!
If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.
