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Mask Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

... mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Preferred Qualifications We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep ...

You will work between our PIC and EIC design teams, our SI/PI and thermal engineers, and our supply ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

Job Title: Analog Layout Design Engineer Job location: Santa Clara, CA, 95054 Job Duration: 3 ... Utilizing advanced CAD tools and mask design knowledge to deliver correct and robust layout that ...

You will work between our PIC and EIC design teams, our SI/PI and thermal engineers, and our supply ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

PIC Engineering Reports to: Senior Director, PIC Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi ... Drive process integration efforts including mask design, fabrication flow development, and ...

Showing results 41-60

MASK Design Engineer information

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$45K

$120.8K

$185.5K

How much do mask design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for mask design engineer in the United States is $120,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by mask design engineers during the IC layout process?

Mask Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict design rules while maximizing layout efficiency and yield. They must manage complex design data, collaborate closely with circuit designers to implement feedback, and ensure that the mask layouts are optimized for both manufacturability and performance. Additionally, keeping up with evolving technology nodes and lithography constraints requires continuous learning and adaptation. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial for overcoming these challenges and delivering high-quality mask designs on tight schedules.

What is the difference between Mask Design Engineer vs Photomask Fabrication Engineer?

AspectMask Design EngineerPhotomask Fabrication Engineer
Primary RoleDesigns photomasks used in semiconductor manufacturingManufactures and inspects photomasks based on design specifications
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of CAD tools, semiconductor processes, optical designExperience with lithography, cleanroom protocols, quality control
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD rooms, collaboration with chip designersCleanrooms, fabrication facilities, equipment operation
Industry UsageUsed in semiconductor and electronics manufacturingUsed in photomask production for chip fabrication

While both roles are essential in semiconductor manufacturing, the Mask Design Engineer focuses on creating the design files for photomasks, whereas the Photomask Fabrication Engineer handles the physical production and quality control of these masks. Both positions require specialized skills and work closely within the same industry but serve different stages of the mask creation process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mask design engineer?

To thrive as a Mask Design Engineer, you need expertise in semiconductor device physics, layout design, and photolithography, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, Calibre, and other EDA software, as well as knowledge of industry standards like DRC/LVS checks, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and collaboration within engineering teams. These skills and qualifications are critical for producing precise mask layouts that enable successful chip fabrication and yield.

What is a mask design engineer?

Mask Design Engineers are specialized professionals who create photomasks used in the fabrication of semiconductor devices. They use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) tools to translate circuit layouts into precise patterns that guide the manufacturing of microchips. These engineers work closely with circuit designers and fabrication teams to ensure accuracy and efficiency in chip production. Their expertise is crucial for achieving the high levels of miniaturization and performance required in modern electronics.
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What cities are hiring for Mask Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Mask Design Engineer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Mask Design Engineer jobs?

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What states have the most Mask Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mask Design Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Mask Design Engineer jobs?

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Infographic showing various Mask Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,849 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Digital Layout Design Engineer

Apple

Austin, TX

$137K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Do you have a passion for crafting entirely new solutions?
As part of our Digital Design Engineering group, you’ll take imaginative and revolutionary ideas and determine how to turn them into reality! You and your team will apply engineering fundamentals and start from scratch if needed, bringing forward-thinking ideas to the real world. Join us, and you’ll help design the tools that allow us to bring customers experiences they’ve never before envisioned.
You will be part of an exciting silicon design group that is responsible for designing state-of-the-art ASICs. We have an extraordinary opportunity for Digital Layout Designers!
In this highly visible role, you will be a member of Apple’s custom layout team, working on the latest technology nodes to create extraordinary custom digital macros, libraries, etc. This is a fast paced work environment with endless learning opportunities working in the design team with members of integration, CAD, circuit and technology engineering.
Description
Imagine yourself at the center of our SOC design effort, collaborating with all fields, playing a strategic role of getting functional products to millions of customers quickly.
You will have the opportunity to integrate and come-up with new ideas, as well as work with a team of hardworking engineers. As a member of the layout team of the microprocessor group, you will be responsible to deliver PDV clean layout, including the following:
- Designing complex custom layout for digital circuits in deep SubMicron CMOS technologies.
- Reviewing and analyzing floorplans and complex circuits with circuit designers.
- Running a complete set of layout design verification tools available on megacells completed.
- Working with the circuit design team to plan, schedule work and negotiate layout tradeoffs as needed.
- Interpretation of LVS, DRC and ERC report to find the fastest way to complete layouts.
- Exceed engineering specifications and expectations.
- Use advanced CAD tools, mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits.
Preferred Qualifications
We are looking for applicants experience in custom layout design of deep SubMicron CMOS circuits.
High level proficiency in layout floorplanning, standard cell planning and hierarchical layout assembly.
Good understanding of issues with RC delay, electromigration, self heating and cross capacitance.
Recognize failure prone layout structures, dedicatedly work with designers for the best approach to problems.
Excellent communication skills and able to work with multi-functional teams.
Great skills on interpretation of CALIBRE DRC, ERC, LVS, etc. reports.
Knowledge of MENTOR GRAPHICS or CADENCE layout tools
Scripting skills in CSH, PERL or SKILL are considered a plus, but not required.
Experience in layout automation is considered a plus, but not required.
Experience in memory compiler development is considered a plus, but not required.
Experience designing low noise, low power datapaths or Memory layout structures, etc.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree in relevant field of study plus 3 years of relevant experience
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $137,500 and $250,700, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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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