Are you seeking an outstanding opportunity? We are looking for a Senior Photonic Layout Design Engineer – someone who is excited to join a growing group of diverse individuals responsible for handling high-speed mixed-signal & Silicon Photonic Designs! NVIDIA has continuously reinvented itself over two decades. Our invention of the GPU in 1999 fueled the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern AI — the next era of computing. NVIDIA is a “learning machine” that constantly evolves by adapting to new opportunities that are hard to solve, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life’s work, to amplify human creativity and intelligence. Join our diverse team today!
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 6+ 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.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.Skills Required
- 6+ 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
- Proven expertise with Cadence Virtuoso and industry-standard verification suites
- Strong proficiency in programming and scripting languages for layout automation
NVIDIA Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about NVIDIA and has not been reviewed or approved by NVIDIA.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity awards and a discounted ESPP are highlighted as core parts of total compensation, enabling employees to share in the company’s success. Stock-based compensation and the two-year lookback ESPP are consistently described as especially valuable.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage is portrayed as robust, with comprehensive medical, dental, and vision options alongside mental health support and on-site care resources. Employer HSA contributions and wellness perks reinforce the depth of the offering.
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Retirement Support — Retirement programs are depicted as strong, featuring a meaningful 401(k) match with Roth options and support for Mega Backdoor Roth contributions. These elements position long-term savings as a notable advantage of the total rewards package.
NVIDIA Insights
What We Do
NVIDIA’s invention of the GPU in 1999 sparked the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern AI — the next era of computing — with the GPU acting as the brain of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can perceive and understand the world. Today, NVIDIA is increasingly known as “the AI computing company.”
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