Job Details

RFIC Layout Automation Engineer

Sunnyvale, California, United States

Hardware

Summary

Posted: Jun 04, 2025

Role Number: 200607818

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish!

Are you passionate about advancing the boundaries of RF analog circuit integration in sophisticated technology nodes for wireless transceivers? Do you grow with innovation, improving RF layout methodologies, and automating repetitive tasks using intelligent scripts and AI/ML solutions? As an RFIC Layout Automation Engineer, you will address intriguing daily challenges, collaborate with skilled RFIC design and layout teams, and integrate ground breaking AI/ML techniques to improve automation efficiency. By joining our team, you will use AI-driven methods to continuously improve products, surpass previous iterations, and enrich user experiences worldwide.

Description

In this role,
- You will identify and review repetitive layout tasks and propose innovative solutions to streamline layout processes.
- You will be using AI/ML methods to detect inefficiencies, automate tasks, and optimize layout methodologies.
- You will diagnose sophisticated verification (DRC/LVS) and PDK issues using Cadence and Calibre, applying advanced tools to enhance accuracy and accelerate resolution.
- You are expected to collaborate with design and layout teams, to understand design constraints and define effective automation strategies.
- You will apply programming and machine learning techniques to resolve layout challenges, drive improvement initiatives, and continuously evolve release flows as design kits and methodologies advance.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS and a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry experience is require.

• You have extensive knowledge of Cadence Virtuoso and Mentor Calibre.

• Proficiency in skill scripting is required, along with experience in Python, Perl, or similar scripting languages preferred.

• You will have a strong understanding of sub-micron CMOS technologies (16nm, 7nm, and below), including FinFET structures, guard rings, deep N-wells, PN junctions, and advanced process effects such as LOD, WPE, and DFM, is essential.

• You are familiar with layout trade-offs involving matching, parasitic effects, high-frequency routing, isolation, coupling, shielding, RC delay, EM, IR, ESD, and latch-up.

• You will bring in excellent communication skills and has the ability to work collaboratively within multi-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• MSEE degree is helpful.

• You have consistent track record crafting custom analog layouts, including floorplanning, placement, routing, and verification.

• You are experienced in Calibre SVRF programming and over 5 years of hands-on experience with sophisticated DRC, ERC, and LVS verification and debugging is preferred.

• You are familiar with AI-driven approaches to verification and layout optimization.

• You have experiences in custom layouts at the chip, block, and device level, especially for RF high-frequency circuits such as LNAs, mixers, VCOs, and PLLs is a plus.

Pay & Benefits

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $165,500 and $293,800, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.Learn more about Apple Benefits. (https://www.apple.com/careers/us/benefits.html)

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation.

Apple participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law.Learn more about the E-Verify program (https://www.apple.com/jobs/pdf/EverifyPosterEnglish.pdf) .

Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple is a drug-free workplace. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law. If you’re applying for a position in San Francisco, review the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance guidelines applicable in your area.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.