CPU Physical Design Engineer

$175,800 - $312,200/Yr

Apple - Santa Clara, CA

Full-time - Senior

Santa Clara, CA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

As a CPU Physical Design Engineer at Apple, you will be integral to the CPU block-level physical design process, focusing on driving RTL-to-GDS design convergence and ensuring the delivery of high-quality designs that meet ambitious performance, power, and area (PPA) goals. This role involves collaboration with various teams to optimize design methodologies and improve silicon yield, making it a key position in Apple's Silicon Engineering Group.

Responsibilities

• Drive RTL-to-GDS design convergence through logic synthesis and place-and-route tools targeting ambitious PPA goals.
• Responsible for block-level physical design delivery and closure of backend flows, electrical requirements, and improving silicon yield.
• Collaborate with internal CAD and PD methodology teams on industry standard synthesis/PNR tool features and optimizations.
• Work with cross-functional top-level teams on CPU floorplan, timing, power, reliability, and testability aspects.
• Define and co-optimize memory macros and library standard cells with custom IP teams to improve design PPA.

Requirements

• Minimum BS degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience in CPU physical design.
• Strong electrical engineering fundamentals in logic design, digital circuits, and deep sub-micron technology.
• Proficiency in industry standard logic synthesis, PnR, STA, and power analysis tools.
• Solid understanding of low power, high frequency physical design techniques.
• Programming and scripting ability in Perl and TCL.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced synthesis/PNR tool features and best practices in physical design methodology.
• Ability to work independently and lead a physical design partition.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement benefits.
• Discounted products and free services.
• Reimbursement for certain educational expenses, including tuition.
• Discretionary bonuses or commission payments.
• Relocation assistance.