Microsoft

Senior / Principal Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer

Microsoft$142K — $274K *
Consumer Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical/Computer/Mechanical Engineering or related field with 4-6 years of experience, or a PhD with 1+ year industry experience.
  • Proficient in semiconductor or superconducting process characterization and device modeling.
  • Experience with process-design kits (PDKs) and translating measured device behavior into design rules.
  • Ability to leverage AI tools for efficiency in measurement and analysis.
  • Familiarity with low-temperature device performance and testing.
  • Strong quantitative skills for data analysis and parameter extraction.

Responsibilities

  • Own and manage the model-to-measurement loop for cryogenic process primitives.
  • Develop and refine cryogenic PDK requirements for superconducting technologies.
  • Collaborate with foundries to adapt PDKs for cryogenic regimes.
  • Design and analyze cryogenic characterization test chips.
  • Connect fabrication abilities with quantum-hardware design teams.
  • Establish characterization infrastructure for repeatable PDK updates.
  • Utilize EDA tools for circuit design and PDK validation.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to shape foundational design infrastructure for quantum hardware.
  • Fast-paced and interdisciplinary work environment.
  • Potential for collaboration with external foundries and internal teams.
  • Access to advanced AI tools for innovation.
  • Alignment with Microsoft's culture and values.
Full Job Description
Overview

Microsoft Quantum is building a topological measurement-based quantum computer to unlock a completely new landscape of computing possibilities. In this measurement-based architecture, qubit readout is especially vital. Come join the multidisciplinary team building a scalable readout system for topological quantum computing!

We're looking for a Senior / Principal Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer; in this pivotal role you will help develop and mature a cryogenic process-design-kit for superconducting quantum hardware. You will own the model-to-measurement characterization loop for cryogenic devices and process primitives. You will partner with foundry, device, and hardware teams to extend foundry PDK capability to cryogenic temperatures, plan and analyze cryogenic characterization test chips, and translate measurement results into accurate models, design rules, and process guidance. This opportunity will allow you to shape foundational design infrastructure for quantum hardware while working on fast-paced and interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

  • Own the model-to-measurement characterization loop for cryogenic process primitives, including test definition, measurement planning, data analysis, parameter extraction, and model update workflows.
  • Develop, maintain, and refine cryogenic PDK requirements for superconducting circuit technologies, with emphasis on accurate low-temperature device models, parameter extraction, and design-rule coverage.
  • Partner with external foundries and internal teams to extend foundry PDKs from room-temperature or nominal process assumptions to cryogenic operating regimes relevant to quantum hardware.
  • Plan, design, and analyze cryogenic characterization test chips for key primitives.
  • Partner with foundry, device, packaging, and quantum-hardware design teams to connect fabrication process capability, measured cryogenic performance, and scalable circuit-design requirements.
  • Establish robust characterization infrastructure, including design-of-experiments methods, test structures, data pipelines, statistical summaries, and documentation that enable repeatable PDK updates.
  • Use industry-standard electronic-design-automation, layout, and physical-verification toolsets to support superconducting circuit design, test-chip development, and PDK validation.
  • Embody our Culture and Values.


Qualifications

Required / Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years technical engineering experience.
    • OR Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 4+ years technical engineering experience.
    • OR Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 1+ year(s) experience in industry or in a research and development environment, could include completion of a post doctoral research position.
    • OR equivalent experience.


Other Requirements:
  • Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:
    • Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.
    • Citizenship & Citizenship Verification: This role will require access to information that is controlled for export under export control regulations, potentially under the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the EU Dual Use Regulation, and/or other export control regulations. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to provide either proof of their country of citizenship or proof of their U.S. permanent residency or other protected status (e.g., under 8 U.S.C. a7 1324b(a)(3)) for assessment of eligibility to access the export-controlled information. To meet this legal requirement, and as a condition of employment, the successful candidate's citizenship will be verified with a valid passport. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may verify status using other documents, where applicable.
  • Ability to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) tools to drive innovation and efficiency (e.g., measurement, performance modeling and analysis, research gathering, day-to-day task automation).
  • Ability to work in an "AI-first" environment using modern AI tools to accelerate discovery through hardware development.


Additional or Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineering, or related field AND 12+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 8+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR Doctorate Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 5+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR equivalent experience.
  • Proficient with semiconductor or superconducting process characterization, device modeling, parameter extraction, and test-chip analysis.
  • Proficient in construction and maintenance of process-design kits, including translating measured device behavior into models, design rules, and documentation for circuit designers.


#Quantum #QuantumCareers #MDQCareers

Quantum Engineering IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $142,800 - $274,800 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $188,000 - $304,200 per year.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

Quantum Engineering IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $119,800 - $234,700 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $160,200 - $261,000 per year.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

About Microsoft

Microsoft is an American multinational corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports, and sells a range of software products and services. Microsoft’s devices and consumer (D&C) licensing segment licenses the Windows operating system and related software, Microsoft Office for consumers, and the Windows Phone operating system. The company’s computing and gaming hardware segment provides Xbox gaming and entertainment consoles and accessories, second-party and third-party video games, and Xbox Live subscriptions; surface devices and accessories; and Microsoft PC accessories. Its phone hardware segment offers Lumia smartphones and other non-Lumia phones. Its D&C segment provides Windows Store, Xbox Live transactions, and Windows phone store; search advertising; display advertising; Office 365 Home and Office 365 Personal; first-party video games; and other consumer products and services as well as operating retail stores. Microsoft’s commercial licensing segments license server products, including Windows Server, Microsoft SQL Server, Visual Studio, System Center, and related Client Access Licenses (CALs); Windows Embedded; Windows operating system; Microsoft Office for business, including Office, Exchange, SharePoint, Lync, and related CALs; Microsoft Dynamics business solutions; and Skype. Its commercial segment offers enterprise services, including premier support services and Microsoft consulting services; commercial cloud comprising Office 365 Commercial, other Microsoft Office online offerings, Dynamics CRM Online, and Microsoft Azure; and other commercial products and online services. The company markets and distributes its products through original equipment manufacturers, distributors, and resellers, as well as online.

Microsoft Careers

Join Microsoft today and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and diversity in its workforce. As a global leader in technology and digital transformation, Microsoft offers unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career to new heights.

Explore Career Opportunities at Microsoft

Whether you're a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a recent graduate eager to start your career, Microsoft has a position that suits your skills and ambitions. We are committed to fostering a culture of growth and learning, where every team member is supported in expanding their horizons.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Microsoft internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and networking opportunities in a supportive and dynamic environment. You'll work on real projects, learn from industry leaders, and gain the skills necessary for a successful career in technology.

Employment Benefits

Choosing a career at Microsoft means more than just a job. Our employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to empower them both professionally and personally. These include comprehensive health benefits, flexible working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement through professional development and diversity training.

Inclusive Culture and Diversity

At Microsoft, we believe that innovation comes from diversity of thought and inclusion. We are committed to a workplace where everyone feels valued and inspired. Our leadership is dedicated to fostering an environment where diverse perspectives lead to breakthrough innovations and a competitive edge.

Grow with Us

Career growth at Microsoft is about more than climbing the corporate ladder; it's about continuous learning, expanding your skills, and improving your capabilities. With access to various leadership and training programs, you can evolve as a professional and make a significant impact within the company and on the global stage.

Hiring Process

Our hiring process is designed to identify true potential. Starting with a review of your resume, followed by interviews that assess your problem-solving abilities and cultural fit, we ensure that all candidates have a fair chance to demonstrate their strengths and potential to contribute to our team.

Networking and Professional Development

Microsoft is a place where you can build a professional network that spans the globe. Our employees benefit from connections with top-tier professionals and industry leaders, which opens doors to innovative projects and collaborative opportunities that are second to none.

Join Our Team

If you're ready to take on exciting challenges and make a difference in the world of technology, explore the job opportunities at Microsoft. Search for open positions that match your skills and interests, and prepare to embark on a rewarding career path filled with innovation and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Microsoft Careers by subscribing to our job alert emails. Get tailored content that aligns with your career preferences and discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Microsoft.

SEARCH MICROSOFT JOBS

At Microsoft, your future is limitless. Join us in our mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Your journey with Microsoft starts here.
Learn more about Microsoft
Size
181,000 employees
Market Cap
$1,762.4 billion
Industry
Net Income
$51.3 billion
Founded
1975
5 Year Trend
+15.5%
Revenue
$153.2 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Microsoft

More Consumer Technology Jobs

Find similar Senior / Principal Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer jobs: