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Ic Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MMIC Design Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site +1

$160K - $250K/yr

We are seeking a highly experienced THz IC Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be the technical lead in the design and development of cutting-edge mixed-signal ICs. You ...

We are seeking a highly experienced THz IC Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be the technical lead in the design and development of cutting-edge mixed-signal ICs. You ...

Digital IC Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$160K/yr

As a design engineer, you will prepare test methods and specifications, assist in preparation of ... A good understanding of analog functionality and exposure to analog IC design methods * Ability to ...

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Ic Design Engineer information

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How much do ic design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ic design engineer in California is $78.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78.03 and $102.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an IC design engineer?

IC Design Engineers are professionals who design and develop integrated circuits (ICs), which are essential components used in a wide range of electronic devices. They work with specialized software tools to create circuit layouts, simulate their performance, and ensure the ICs meet required specifications. Their responsibilities often include collaborating with other engineers, testing prototypes, and troubleshooting design issues to optimize the functionality and efficiency of the chips. This role is critical in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, telecommunications, and more.

What does an IC design engineer do?

As an IC design engineer, your job is to help create an integrated circuit that meets the needs of a project. This typically involves fitting amplifiers, transistors, capacitors, resistors, and other components into a single part that manufacturers can install onto a larger circuit board. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of an IC design engineer requires familiarity with various electronic components and the ability to transform overall project goals into specific design objectives. Most integrated circuits are purpose-built for each type of circuit board, so flexibility and the ability to modify designs as needed is essential for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an IC design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an IC Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and circuit design, usually supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with CAD tools like Cadence or Synopsys, and familiarity with industry standards and verification methodologies, are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure the development of reliable, high-performance integrated circuits that meet technical and market requirements.

What are some typical challenges an IC design engineer might face during the design and verification process?

IC Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as meeting strict power, performance, and area (PPA) targets while adhering to tight project timelines. Debugging complex circuit behaviors and ensuring designs are error-free through rigorous verification can also be demanding. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as layout engineers, verification specialists, and system architects—is essential to address design constraints and integration issues. Staying updated with evolving design tools and methodologies is another key aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Ic Design Engineer vs IC Test Engineer?

AspectIC Design EngineerIC Test Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning integrated circuits and chip architecturesTesting and validating ICs for functionality and quality
Skills & CertificationsVLSI design, CAD tools, circuit theoryTesting methodologies, lab equipment, scripting
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, collaboration with design teamsTesting labs, equipment setup, analysis of test data
Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, electronics manufacturersManufacturers, testing service providers

While both roles are integral to IC development, IC Design Engineers focus on creating the circuit layouts and architectures, whereas IC Test Engineers specialize in verifying and validating the functionality of these chips through testing processes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the semiconductor industry.

How hard is it to get into IC design engineer?

Getting into an IC design engineer role typically requires a strong background in electrical engineering or related fields, with proficiency in hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog. Relevant experience with CAD tools, a solid understanding of semiconductor physics, and often a bachelor's or master's degree are essential; competition can be high due to specialized skills and industry demand.

Is IC design engineer a good career?

An IC design engineer designs integrated circuits and plays a critical role in electronics development, often requiring skills in VHDL, Verilog, and CAD tools. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities in industries like consumer electronics, telecommunications, and aerospace. Continuous learning and staying updated with new technologies are important for long-term success in this career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ic Design Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ic Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Ic Design Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ic Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ic Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ic Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Ic Design Engineer jobs in CA?

For Ic Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ic Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,085 per year, or $78.4 per hour.

Mixed-Signal CMOS IC Design Engineer

AttoTude

Menlo Park, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a highly experienced Mixed-Signal IC Design Leader to join our growing team. In this role, you will be the technical lead in the design and development of cutting-edge mixed-signal ICs. You will be involved in the technical aspects of the IC design and development, from concept through to production. This is a hands-on technical position that requires in-depth technical expertise, and the ability to work in a team of highly experienced engineers to accomplishing the goals. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Design and development of mixed-signal ICs for cutting edge AI and Cloud Computing systems 
  • Ownership of the full design cycle, including architecture definition, block-level design, simulation, verification, layout and evaluation 
  • Drive high-speed interconnect design, including PAM4 SerDes >112Gbps in bulk CMOS and FinFET 
  • Design and optimization of Fractional-N synthesizers, multi-phase clock generation, and analog building blocks (e.g., Charge Pumps, Power Control) 
  • Implement and verify high-speed interconnects, Equalizers (CTLE/FFE/DFE, sample/hold), and other key components 
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure timely project execution and design tape-outs 
  • Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in mixed-signal IC design and apply them to improve project outcomes 
  • Occasional travel to the Bay Area (<10%) for remote position 

Qualifications: 

  • 10+ years of hands-on experience in CMOS Mixed-Signal IC Design 
  • Proven expertise in designing high-speed interconnects, Fractional-N synthesizers, PAM4 SerDes (>112Gbps), Equalizers, and multi-phase clock generation 
  • Strong background in analog and digital mixed-signal design, including charge pumps, power control, and other analog building blocks 
  • Strong communication, leadership, and project management skills 

Education: 

  • Master's Degree (MEng) in Electrical Engineering or related field is required 
  • A Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field is preferred 

Preferred Skills: 

  • Experience with bulk CMOS and FinFET technologies. 
  • Ability to drive innovation and implement new design methodologies. 
  • Experience working in fast-paced environments with a strong track record of delivering high-quality designs on time. 

Benefits: 

  • Competitive salary 
  • Stock options plan 
  • Flex time off 
  • Health benefits 


AttoTude is an equal opportunity employer. We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.