Analog Layout Automation Engineer

Summary

Join Apple's Silicon Engineering Group (SEG) and be at the forefront of shaping the next generation of Apple's systems-on-chip (SOCs)! Our SOCs, featuring multi-billion transistors, are the heart of iconic devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. We're seeking a highly skilled Analog Layout Automation Engineer to contribute to the evolution of Analog/Mixed-Signal (AMS) circuits, covering SerDes, PLLs, and sensors, with a focus on automation and leveraging AI/ML techniques for improved design and efficiency.

Description

As an Analog Layout Automation Engineer, you’ll convert design concepts into silicon by collaborating with circuit designers and using advanced, including AI-powered, CAD tools to create high-performance analog and mixed-signal layouts. You will review floor plans, analyze circuits, run verification suites, and resolve LVS/DRC/ERC issues to deliver next-generation SOCs. You’ll also drive automation by developing scripts, improving workflows, and applying AI/ML for layout optimization, verification acceleration, advanced modeling, intelligent quality metrics, reduced manual effort, and data-driven design insights.

Minimum Qualifications

BS degree in technical discipline with minimum 10 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience designing analog and mixed-signal layouts in deep-submicron CMOS and FinFET technologies.

Strong programming/scripting skills in SKILL, Perl, TCL, Shell, and/or Python, with emphasis on layout automation, productivity tooling, and data analysis.

Solid understanding of supervised and self-supervised learning, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and core training concepts such as loss functions, backpropagation, and optimization.

Hands-on experience with PyTorch for model development and experimentation.

Demonstrated ability to automate layout tasks, flows, and quality checks using scripting and CAD tools.

Proven record in implementing high-quality analog layouts with tight device matching, low noise, and low power consumption.

Familiarity with failure-prone circuit/layout structures, analog and DFM best practices, and the ability to diagnose and resolve layout-related issues.

Strong proficiency in custom and standard-cell floor planning, hierarchical layout assembly, and physical integration.

Understanding of image processing fundamentals, spatial representations, multi-channel image handling, segmentation, and object detection concepts.

Technical understanding of IR drop, RC delay, electromigration, self-heating, coupling capacitance, and related reliability concerns.

High proficiency in interpreting physical verification reports, including DRC, ERC, and LVS.

Experience using advanced Cadence Virtuoso features (XL, EAD, APR, Constraint Manager), and familiarity with Cadence Innovus.

Experience with CAD automation workflows and PCell creation.

Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Pay & Benefits — San Diego, California, United States

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 $166,600 and $296,000, 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

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

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.