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Computer Chip Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nova Ltd.

Firmware Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

The engineer will collaborate closely with electrical and systems engineering teams to integrate ... computer chip built in the world. Nova dives deep into dimensions and layers at the atomic level to ...

Nova Ltd.

Firmware Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

The engineer will collaborate closely with electrical and systems engineering teams to integrate ... computer chip built in the world. Nova dives deep into dimensions and layers at the atomic level to ...

New

Lightmatter

Chip Architecture Leader

Boston, MA · On-site

You'll have the opportunity to build a new kind of computer from the ground up and to solve ... Work with other engineering leaders to plan, set, and execute on development, tapeout, and ...

Apple

CAD Engineer - Signoff Infrastructure

Austin, TX

$150K - $277K/yr

We're seeking a CAD Engineer to join our team and develop full-stack web applications that power ... Signoff is the critical final verification stage in chip design where designs are validated against ...

Astera Labs

Chip Lead, Senior Director

San Jose, CA · On-site

Drive chip development execution from RTL to GDSII, ensuring architecture, implementation, and ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field * 15+ years of ...

Apple

CAD Engineer - Signoff Infrastructure

Austin, TX

$150K - $277K/yr

We're seeking a CAD Engineer to join our team and develop full-stack web applications that power ... Signoff is the critical final verification stage in chip design where designs are validated against ...

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Computer Chip Engineer information

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$48.5K

$121.5K

$137.5K

How much do computer chip engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer chip engineer in the United States is $121,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Computer Chip Engineer job?

A Computer Chip Engineer designs, develops, and tests microchips used in electronic devices. They work with semiconductor materials, circuit design, and fabrication processes to create efficient and high-performance chips. Their role involves collaboration with hardware and software engineers to optimize chip functionality. They may also troubleshoot and improve existing chip designs to enhance performance and energy efficiency.

How much do chip engineers make in the US?

Computer chip engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $160,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization. Advanced skills in semiconductor design, CAD tools, and certifications can influence earning potential.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer chip engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in semiconductor design, and leadership roles, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with working at major technology companies, in specialized fields like VLSI design, or holding managerial or executive positions that require advanced certifications and expertise in tools such as CAD software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Computer Chip Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Chip Engineer, you need a deep understanding of electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and integrated circuit (IC) design, typically supported by a bachelor's or master’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, and industry certifications like IPC or IEEE standards is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills. These competencies are vital for creating reliable, high-performance microchips while meeting strict timelines and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

What does a chip engineer do?

A chip engineer designs, develops, and tests integrated circuits and microchips used in electronic devices. They work with electronic design automation tools, analyze circuit performance, and ensure chips meet specifications and quality standards. This role often requires knowledge of semiconductor physics, circuit design, and programming languages such as VHDL or Verilog.

What are some common challenges faced by Computer Chip Engineers, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Computer Chip Engineers often deal with complex problems like optimizing designs for power, speed, and area while ensuring manufacturability and reliability. New hires may find it challenging to keep up with rapid technological advancements and manage tight project deadlines. Developing strong foundations in semiconductor theory, staying current with the latest EDA tools, and practicing collaborative communication will help address these challenges. Being proactive in seeking mentorship and participating in cross-functional meetings can also accelerate your adaptation and success within engineering teams.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A highly experienced computer chip engineer working in senior or executive roles, such as a lead engineer or director in semiconductor companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills in VLSI design, extensive industry experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.
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Computer Chip Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Chip Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,515 per year, or $58.4 per hour.
CPU Full Chip Physical Integration Engineer

CPU Full Chip Physical Integration Engineer

Apple

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 667 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
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum BS and 3+ years of relevant industry experience
Experience with scripting in Perl or TCL
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

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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

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