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Mask Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Neara

Photonic Layout Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$146 - $219/hr

Photonic Layout Engineer Job type: Full Time · Department: Operations · Work type: On-Site · USD ... Perform physical verification of mask data to ensure design and manufacturability requirements are ...

Cspeed

Package Design & Layout Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

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 ...

Superbeo

Analog Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

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 ...

Cspeed

Package Design & Layout Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

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 ...

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All JobsMask Design Engineer JobsMask Design Engineer Jobs in California

Mask Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$119.3K

$183.1K

How much do mask design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for mask design engineer in California is $119,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Mask Design Engineer jobs in California?

For Mask Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mask Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mask 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 $119,266 per year, or $57.3 per hour.

Senior Mask Design Engineer - Hardware

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 25 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 sparked 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 opportunities that are hard to take on, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work, to amplify human creativity and intelligence. We would love to hear from you.

We are looking for a Senior Mask Layout Design Engineer, someone who is excited to join a growing and dynamic group of diverse individuals responsible for handling meaningful high-speed mixed-signal circuit designs. What you'll be doing: Performing physical layout for mixed-signal functions like PLL's, high speed SerDes, Analog to Digital converters, ESD structures designs in state-of-the-art sub-micron CMOS technologies using Cadence tools. You'll work cross functionally with ASIC and mixed-signal engineers to customize designs for integration in VLSI products.

Take part in floor planning, custom layout and verifying against design rules and schematics. What we need to see: Have a BSEE or equivalent experience. Minimum of 7+ years industry experience in Mask and Layout Design.

Deep understanding of analog circuit layout concepts in submicron CMOS technologies. You are an authority with Cadence custom circuit design tools - particularly virtuoso. Experience running and debugging with verification tools such as Dracula, Hercules, Calibre, and Primeyield.

You are able to work effectively in a team, good interpersonal skills, enthusiasm and positive energy. You'll be proficient in scripting languages like perl, python, skill etc. Should have knowledge of DRC and LVS checking flows, ability to customize decks.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 132,000 USD - 207,000 USD for Level 4, and 148,000 USD - 235,750 USD for Level 5. You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until March 3, 2026. This posting is for an existing vacancy. NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse 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

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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