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Computer Chip Designer Jobs in Cambridge, MA (NOW HIRING)

GCR Technical Staffing

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PCB CAD Designer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75/hr

Onsite / Hybrid / Remote Must be a US Citizen, no dual citizens ----- Electronic CAD Designer ... Experience with bare die techniques such as wire bond, flip chip, and interposer design * Formal ...

Brooks Automation

Mechanical Designer

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

... chip manufacturers worldwide. Our product portfolio includes a range of automation solutions ... Develops and applies computer aided design (CAD) software engineering methods, theories and ...

Brooks Automation

Mechanical Designer

Chelmsford, MA · Hybrid

... chip manufacturers worldwide. Our product portfolio includes a range of automation solutions ... Develops and applies computer aided design (CAD) software engineering methods, theories and ...

Nvidia

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Experience designing and writing code for large-scale design automation tools Performance analysis and tuning experience Knowledge of at least one physical CAD data model Interested in VLSI chip ...

Nvidia

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Writing challenging, innovative, well-designed, high-quality new code for desktop engineering ... Interested in VLSI chip design concepts and EDA tools NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the ...

Athari

Digital Design Engineer

Lexington, MA · Hybrid

$152K/yr

* Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering ... Experience designing and testing programmable logic designs targeting System on Chip (SoC) FPGA ...

Judit Inc

Digital Design Engineer

Lexington, MA · Hybrid

$152K/yr

Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering ... Experience designing and testing programmable logic designs targeting System on Chip (SoC) FPGA ...

Draper Inc.

ASIC CAD Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

## ASIC CAD EngineerApplyremote type: Onsite Requiredlocations: Cambridge, MAtime type: Full ... Independently contribute to complex chip architectures and designs* Independently drive solutions ...

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Computer Chip Designer information

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How much do computer chip designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer chip designer in Cambridge, MA is $44.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $63.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computer chip designer do?

A Computer Chip Designer is responsible for creating the architecture and layout of microchips used in computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. They use specialized software to design, simulate, and test integrated circuits to ensure they meet performance, power, and size requirements. The job involves close collaboration with hardware engineers, testing teams, and manufacturers to bring innovative chip designs from concept to production. Computer Chip Designers play a critical role in advancing technology by making devices faster, more efficient, and more capable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer chip designer?

To thrive as a Computer Chip Designer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and semiconductor physics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), CAD tools like Cadence or Synopsys, and knowledge of EDA (Electronic Design Automation) systems are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help designers succeed in complex, collaborative projects. These combined skills ensure that chip designs are innovative, efficient, and meet stringent performance and reliability standards in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by computer chip designers in collaborative projects?

Computer chip designers often work closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and verification specialists. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment across these diverse groups, especially when integrating complex design requirements and meeting tight deadlines. Additionally, balancing innovation with strict industry standards and manufacturing constraints can require careful negotiation and problem-solving. Adapting quickly to changes in project scope or technology is also a frequent challenge, making flexibility and teamwork essential for success.

What is the difference between Computer Chip Designer vs Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer Chip DesignerHardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, simulation toolsDevelopment labs, testing facilities, manufacturing environments
Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, tech firms, research institutionsElectronics manufacturing, product development, tech companies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for design focus and specializationBroader engineering roles involving hardware development

Computer Chip Designers focus on creating the architecture and design of integrated circuits using specialized software, while Hardware Engineers work on developing, testing, and implementing electronic hardware systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are computer chip designers in demand?

Computer chip designers are in high demand due to the growing need for advanced semiconductor technology in electronics, automotive, and telecommunications industries. Skilled professionals with knowledge of VLSI design, CAD tools, and industry standards are particularly sought after, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as technology advances.

How do you become a computer chip designer?

To become a computer chip designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog, and developing skills in circuit design and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, is essential. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree and a strong understanding of semiconductor manufacturing processes.

How much do computer chip designers make?

Computer chip designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in hardware description languages and experience with CAD tools can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Chip Designer jobs in Cambridge, MA?

For Computer Chip Designer jobs in Cambridge, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Computer Chip Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Chip Designer job openings in Cambridge, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,389 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Senior C++ Software Engineer - Chip Design Tools

Westford, MA

Nvidia
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Nvidiaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

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 challenges that are hard to tackle, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work, to amplify human creativity and intelligence. Make the choice to join us today.

Our team is responsible for development and support of infrastructure tools used by design engineers for build and verification of architectural, rtl, and gate level designs. As a software engineer, you will craft highly efficient software to automate and facilitate chip design and verification processes. What You'll be Doing: Work as a team to build reliable, scalable and high performance software that are easy to use by hundreds of engineers worldwide.

Develop software tools in C++/Golang to analyze and construct chip designs described in C++, Verilog or domain-specific languages (DSLs). Research and develop software solutions to allow greater efficiency in architecture, hardware and software teams. Optimize the daily workflows of the world's top chip modelers and designers.

What We Need to See: BS (or equivalent experience) and 5+ years of software development experience., MS (or PHD) preferred. Experienced with C++ or Golang, Unix/Linux. Solid understanding of algorithms, computer architecture and computer science theory Experienced with VLSI frontend design and verification Flexibility/adaptability for working in a global and dynamic environment with different frameworks and requirements Ways to stand out from the crowd: Good architecture and RTL design knowledge Strong expertise in modern C++, compiler, build systems, and database

Experienced with static and dynamic code analysis tools Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4. You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 11, 2026. This posting is for an existing vacancy. NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive 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.

What Nvidia employees say

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About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

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