NVIDIA Corporation

Senior Photonic Layout Design Engineer

NVIDIA Corporation$148K — $276K *
Technical Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS, MS, or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
  • 6+ years of hands-on experience in full-chip layout design in semiconductor, analog, or silicon photonics.
  • Deep knowledge of analog circuit layout and performance metrics in SiPh technologies.
  • Proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso and verification tools like Calibre and Hercules.
  • Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, SKILL, or TCL for layout automation.
  • Experience optimizing workflows and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

  • Lead physical design and verification of photonic integrated circuits (PICs).
  • Manage full-loop layout designs for waveguides, modulators, and mixed-signal functions.
  • Conduct post-layout verification to ensure design rule cleanliness before tape-out.
  • Develop complex test structures and certification vehicles to validate designs.
  • Implement AI-assisted design methods and layout automation scripts.

Benefits

  • Eligible for equity in the company.
  • Access to comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Flexible work schedules to promote work-life balance.
Full Job Description
What You'll Be Doing:
  • As a Senior Photonics Layout Engineer, you will take ownership of the physical design and verification of cutting-edge photonic integrated circuits (PICs), guiding designs from initial proof-of-concept phases to high-volume manufacturing readiness. You will work within a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary team of photonics, CMOS, packaging, and systems engineers to drive next-generation Silicon Photonics (SiPh) and SERDES products.
  • Layout Execution & Tape-out Ownership: Lead complex, full-loop manual and automated layout designs for waveguides, modulators, photodetectors, and mixed-signal functions (high-speed/general I/Os, ESD structures). Drive the full tape-out process, including floor planning, waveguide routing, and mask data preparation.
  • Verification & Mitigation: Execute rigorous post-layout verification (DRC, LVS, fill, density) across multiple stepping versions. Trace defect sources, mitigate layout-dependent issues, and ensure DRC/LVS cleanliness prior to tape-out.
  • Test Vehicle & Component Development: Own the layout of complex test structures, active/passive full loops, and certification vehicles with large Design of Experiments (DOEs) to optimize for process windows.
  • Automation & AI-Assisted Workflows: Develop and implement AI-assisted design methods, layout automation scripts, and custom Pcells to improve productivity, reduce development cycle times, and customize DRC/LVS checking flows.


What We Need to See:
  • To succeed in this role, candidates must possess a deep technical understanding of advanced node semiconductor fabrication, sophisticated automation capabilities, and a proven track record of first-time success on high-density chip designs.
  • BS, MS, or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field (or equivalent experience). At least 12+ years of hands-on, full-chip layout design experience in semiconductor, analog, or silicon photonics industries.
  • Deep understanding of analog circuit layout, Silicon Photonic constraints, and device physics within advanced sub-micron CMOS and SiPh technologies.
  • Proven expertise with Cadence Virtuoso (Custom Layout, SDL) and industry-standard verification suites (Calibre, Hercules, ICV, Dracula, or Primeyield).
  • Strong proficiency in programming and scripting languages (Python, SKILL, Perl, TCL, or C++) for layout automation, file I/O, data processing, and tape-out flows.
  • Ability to optimize workflows using best-known methods (BKMs), and proactively collaborate with integration, and design rule teams to achieve high-yield manufacturing goals.


Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 148,000 USD - 235,750 USD for Level 5, and 176,000 USD - 276,000 USD for Level 6.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until September 12, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

About NVIDIA Corporation

Nvidia, a global leader in graphics, gaming, and AI technology, offers Nvidia careers and internship opportunities for those passionate about driving innovation in the tech industry. you'll find a company committed to growth, teamwork, and leadership in computer science and machine learning domains.

About Nvidia

A Pioneer in Technology and Innovation

Nvidia has cemented its reputation as a powerhouse in developing advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) and has significantly contributed to the gaming industry's evolution. Moreover, its foray into AI and machine learning has opened new frontiers in technology, making Nvidia a beacon of innovation and a desirable workplace for ambitious tech professionals.

Job Opportunities

Diverse Positions in a Dynamic Field

Nvidia is continuously on the lookout for talented individuals across various domains, including hardware and software engineering, product design, marketing, and sales. Employment opportunities at Nvidia are vast, catering to a wide range of expertise and career aspirations.

Employment in Hardware and Graphics

For those fascinated by the intricacies of hardware and graphics technology, Nvidia offers positions that sit at the forefront of gaming and computing advancements.

Growth in Machine Learning and AI

Nvidia's leadership in AI and machine learning has created numerous vacancies for specialists eager to contribute to groundbreaking projects.

Recruitment in Computer Science

With the constant demand for innovation, Nvidia's recruitment efforts focus on computer science experts capable of pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Internship Program

Opening Doors to Future Innovators

Nvidia's internship program is designed to nurture the next generation of technology leaders, offering hands-on experience in a culture that celebrates creativity and teamwork.

Benefits and Culture

Interns at Nvidia enjoy a plethora of benefits, from competitive stipends to mentorship opportunities, all within an environment that values growth and learning.

Opportunities for Students

Whether you're an undergraduate, a master's student, or a Ph.D. candidate, Nvidia's internships provide a real-world glimpse into the tech industry, offering valuable experience in various technology fields.

Pathways to Full-Time Employment

Many interns have transitioned into full-time positions, marking the start of successful careers at Nvidia. The internship program is more than a stepping stone into the company; it’s an investment in the professional development of interns. The goal is to ensure that interns are well-equipped for future challenges.

Nvidia Careers: More Than Just a Job

Nvidia offers more than just a job to its employees; it provides a front-row seat on the journey into the future of technology. Nvidia stands as a pillar of innovation with its vast opportunities in hardware, graphics, gaming, machine learning, and computer science. Nvidia careers serve as a launching pad for talented workers who aim to redefine the technological landscape. Whether through full-time positions or internships, joining Nvidia means contributing to a legacy of breakthroughs and becoming part of a global community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Learn more about NVIDIA Corporation
Size
22,473 employees
Market Cap
$350.4 billion
Industry
Net Income
$4.3 billion
Founded
1993
5 Year Trend
+31.3%
Revenue
$16.6 billion
NASDAQ

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