In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$150K - $277K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$150K - $277K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$115K - $194K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$115K - $194K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
SoC Design Engineer
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
SoC Design Engineer
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$115K - $194K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$115K - $194K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$150K - $277K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$150K - $277K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
IC Package Design / Development
San Jose, CA · On-site
$108K - $192K/yr
This role partners closely with chip design, system design, SI/PI, thermal, and manufacturing teams to define and deliver industry-leading package solutions. The ideal candidate has deep technical ...
IC Package Design / Development
San Jose, CA · On-site
$108K - $192K/yr
This role partners closely with chip design, system design, SI/PI, thermal, and manufacturing teams to define and deliver industry-leading package solutions. The ideal candidate has deep technical ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
Quick apply
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing ... Description As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design ...
SoC Design Engineer
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
SoC Design Engineer
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
IC Package Design / Development
$108K - $192K/yr
This role partners closely with chip design, system design, SI/PI, thermal, and manufacturing teams to define and deliver industry-leading package solutions. The ideal candidate has deep technical ...
IC Package Design / Development
$108K - $192K/yr
This role partners closely with chip design, system design, SI/PI, thermal, and manufacturing teams to define and deliver industry-leading package solutions. The ideal candidate has deep technical ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
SoC Design Engineer
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
SoC Design Engineer
$156K - $160K/yr
Perform chip bring-up, validation and debugging. Design, integrate and validate data pipeline according to PRD/design specification and system architecture of SoC products, following ASIC design flow ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
CAD Engineer - PDV
$175K - $308K/yr
As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and ...
Chip Design information
See salary details
$42K - $56.5K
4% of jobs
$56.5K - $71K
8% of jobs
$81.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$71K - $85.5K
17% of jobs
The median wage is $99K / yr.
$85.5K - $100K
22% of jobs
$100K - $114.5K
15% of jobs
$114.5K - $129K
6% of jobs
$133.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$129K - $143.5K
7% of jobs
$143.5K - $158K
7% of jobs
$158K - $172.5K
8% of jobs
$172.5K - $187K
2% of jobs
$187K - $201.5K
2% of jobs
$42K
$114.5K
$201.5K
How much do chip design jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for chip design in the United States is $114,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chip Design position, and why are they important?
To excel in Chip Design, a strong background in electrical engineering, digital and analog circuit design, and semiconductor physics is typically required, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with electronic design automation (EDA) tools like Cadence, Synopsys, and Mentor Graphics, as well as proficiency in hardware description languages (HDLs) such as Verilog or VHDL, are standard prerequisites. Outstanding problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing efficient, reliable integrated circuits and meeting the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry.
What are the typical career progression opportunities in a Chip Design role?
Chip Design offers a clear pathway for career growth, starting from entry-level positions such as Design Engineer or Verification Engineer and progressing to roles like Lead Designer, Project Manager, or Technical Architect. As you gain experience and demonstrate expertise, opportunities often open up in specialized areas such as physical design, timing analysis, or system architecture. Many professionals also advance to leadership or managerial positions, overseeing teams or entire design projects. Additionally, working in such a fast-evolving field keeps you engaged with the latest technologies and can provide options to transition into adjacent areas like product management or application engineering.
Is chip design a good career?
Chip design is a specialized field within electronics engineering focused on creating integrated circuits and microchips. It offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work with advanced technology, but requires strong skills in electronics, programming, and often a relevant degree or certification. Career growth depends on industry trends and individual expertise in areas like VLSI design and CAD tools.
How do you become a chip designer?
To become a chip designer, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field, along with strong skills in digital logic, circuit design, and hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog. Gaining experience through internships, developing proficiency with CAD tools, and staying updated on industry standards are also important steps in pursuing a career in chip design.
What is a Chip Design job?
A Chip Design job involves creating and developing semiconductor circuits used in electronic devices. Engineers in this field work on designing, verifying, and testing integrated circuits (ICs) to ensure performance, power efficiency, and reliability. They use specialized software tools for designing hardware and optimizing functionality. Chip designers collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new processors, memory chips, or custom ASICs from concept to production. This role is crucial in industries like computing, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.
How much do chip designers make?
Chip designers, also known as integrated circuit designers, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in hardware description languages and CAD tools can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000.
What engineer makes $500,000 a year?
Senior chip design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in hardware description languages, and expertise in complex integrated circuit development can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost living areas or within leading technology companies. Such roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of successful project delivery.
More about Chip Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Chip Design jobs? Cities with the most Chip Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chip Design jobs? The most popular types of Chip Design jobs are:
What states have the most Chip Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Chip Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chip Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chip Design jobs are:
Apple rating
8.1
Based on 670 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
5th of 30 rated technology retailers
Job description
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! Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our commitment to leave the world better than we found it. Do you want join us in these pursuits? Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product!
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing with all disciplines, with a critical impact on getting functional products to millions of customers quickly.
Description
As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design, integration, and verification of high performance, low power processor development.
• Full chip floorplan, area optimizations, block partitioning and pin placements
• Own chip level place and route (PnR), final CPU layout database construction and verification (PDV)
• Develop and validate Power Grid, including routability analysis
• Drive custom layout integration, block and full-chip level EM/IR, electrical verification/analysis as well as formal verification
• Work with the implementation/CAD teams during the entire chip design cycle to drive signoff closure for tapeout
• Work with the SOC team to meet IP technical and delivery requirements
• Participate in establishing CAD and physical design methodologies and flow development for chip integration and analysis
• Scripting to automate tasks and improve debug efficiency
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of industrial standards and practices in Physical Design, including Floorplanning, Partitioning, Budgeting, Place and Route and Physical Verification
Experience in developing and implementing Power Grid and Clock specifications
Solid knowledge of Low Power Design, Physical Construction, Integration, EMIR (Drop/Noise), SIGEM Analysis, Formal Verification, Physical PDV, DRC/LVS Verification, and DFM
Solid understanding of verification tools such as Conformal LP, LEC, RedHawk, Calibre
Solid understanding of CMOS circuit design. Layout design background is a plus
Working knowledge of Extraction and STA methodology and tools
Working knowledge of Computer Architecture
Ability to work well in a team, being an excellent problem solver, and self motivated
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum BS and 3+ years of relevant industry experience
Experience with scripting in Perl or TCL
In this highly visible role, you will be at the center of a processor design effort interfacing with all disciplines, with a critical impact on getting functional products to millions of customers quickly.
Description
As a Full Chip Integration Engineer, you will be participating in the physical design, integration, and verification of high performance, low power processor development.
• Full chip floorplan, area optimizations, block partitioning and pin placements
• Own chip level place and route (PnR), final CPU layout database construction and verification (PDV)
• Develop and validate Power Grid, including routability analysis
• Drive custom layout integration, block and full-chip level EM/IR, electrical verification/analysis as well as formal verification
• Work with the implementation/CAD teams during the entire chip design cycle to drive signoff closure for tapeout
• Work with the SOC team to meet IP technical and delivery requirements
• Participate in establishing CAD and physical design methodologies and flow development for chip integration and analysis
• Scripting to automate tasks and improve debug efficiency
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of industrial standards and practices in Physical Design, including Floorplanning, Partitioning, Budgeting, Place and Route and Physical Verification
Experience in developing and implementing Power Grid and Clock specifications
Solid knowledge of Low Power Design, Physical Construction, Integration, EMIR (Drop/Noise), SIGEM Analysis, Formal Verification, Physical PDV, DRC/LVS Verification, and DFM
Solid understanding of verification tools such as Conformal LP, LEC, RedHawk, Calibre
Solid understanding of CMOS circuit design. Layout design background is a plus
Working knowledge of Extraction and STA methodology and tools
Working knowledge of Computer Architecture
Ability to work well in a team, being an excellent problem solver, and self motivated
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum BS and 3+ years of relevant industry experience
Experience with scripting in Perl or TCL
About Apple
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
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. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.
Industry
Computer and electronic product manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Cupertino, CA, US
Year founded
1976