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Mask Layout Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mask Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท Hybrid

$122K - $164K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Mask Layout Design Engineer - someone who is excited to join a growing group of diverse individuals responsible for handling complex mixed-signal circuit designs! NVIDIA ...

You will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with chip designers, electrical engineers ... Physical verification of custom IC mask layouts (LVS, DRC, ERC) Required Qualifications: * 2+ years ...

Analog IC Layout Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$83K - $139K/yr

You will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with chip designers, electrical engineers ... Physical verification of custom IC mask layouts (LVS, DRC, ERC) Required Qualifications: * 2+ years ...

Analog Layout Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$216K/yr

Working with the circuit designer or Layout-Lead to plan/schedule work and negotiate any layout ... Utilizing advanced CAD tools and mask design knowledge to deliver correct and robust layout that ...

Analog Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$237K/yr

Utilizing advanced CAD tools and mask design knowledge to deliver correct and robust layout that ... Working with the circuit designer or Layout-Lead to plan/schedule work and negotiate any layout ...

Co-work with designers on block-level and top-level floorplanning.Layout review for power/gnd routing, electromigration, signal path check, differential and IQ matching, and signal coupling.Top-level ...

Ability to recognize failure-prone circuit and layout structures and proactively work with circuit designers for the best approach to resolve problems.Excellent communication skills and ability to ...

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Mask Layout Designer information

See California salary details

$9

$40

$99

How much do mask layout designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for mask layout designer in California is $40.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $57.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are mask layout designers?

Mask layout designers are professionals who create the detailed physical layouts for integrated circuits (ICs) or semiconductor devices. They translate circuit schematics into precise geometric patterns that define how components and connections will be fabricated on silicon chips. Their work involves using specialized software tools to optimize the arrangement for performance, manufacturability, and adherence to design rules. Mask layout designers play a crucial role in ensuring that electronic devices function correctly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mask Layout Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mask Layout Designer, you need a solid understanding of semiconductor physics, IC design principles, and experience with layout design rules, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with EDA tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, Mentor Graphics, or Synopsys, as well as knowledge of DRC/LVS verification processes, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective collaboration with design and verification teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the creation of accurate, manufacturable layouts that meet stringent specifications, directly impacting chip performance and yield.

What is the difference between Mask Layout Designer vs IC Design Engineer?

AspectMask Layout DesignerIC Design Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning photomask layouts for semiconductor manufacturingDesigning integrated circuit architectures and circuit components
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of mask design tools, semiconductor fabrication processesStrong circuit theory, EDA tools, and semiconductor device knowledge
Work EnvironmentSemiconductor fabrication facilities, design labsDesign offices, R&D labs, semiconductor companies
Industry UsageUsed in photomask manufacturing for chip productionUsed in chip and circuit development for various electronic devices

While both roles are integral to semiconductor development, the Mask Layout Designer focuses on creating precise photomask patterns for manufacturing, whereas the IC Design Engineer develops the overall circuit architecture and logic. Understanding these distinctions helps professionals and employers align skills and expectations in the semiconductor industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Mask Layout Designers when collaborating with circuit design engineers?

One common challenge Mask Layout Designers face is translating circuit schematics into efficient and manufacturable layouts while ensuring all design rules and constraints are met. Effective communication is crucial, as discrepancies between layout and circuit intent can arise, requiring iterative feedback and close coordination with circuit design engineers. Additionally, balancing performance, area, and manufacturability often involves trade-offs, making teamwork and proactive problem-solving essential parts of the role.
What are popular job titles related to Mask Layout Designer jobs in California? For Mask Layout Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mask Layout Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mask Layout Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mask Layout Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Mask Layout Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mask Layout Designer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,781 per year, or $40.8 per hour.
Senior Mask Design Engineer

Senior Mask Design Engineer

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$122K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you a Mask Layout Design Engineer who is seeking am amazing opportunity? We are looking for a Senior Mask Layout Design Engineer - someone who is excited to join a growing group of diverse individuals responsible for handling complex mixed-signal circuit designs! 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 opportunities that are hard to solve, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work, to amplify human creativity and intelligence. Join our dynamic team today!


What you'll be doing:

  • The role entails working collaboratively and multi-functionally with a multi-disciplinary team of Photonics, CMOS, Electronics, and Systems engineers

  • Perform physical layout for mixed-signal functions like PLL's, high speed I/O circuits, general I/O's, ESD structures designs in innovative sub-micron CMOS technologies using Cadence tools

  • You'll work with ASIC and mixed-signal engineers to customize designs for integration in VLSI products.

  • Job duties will include floor planning, custom layout and verifying against design rules and schematics.

  • Fill, post-processing, DRC mitigation, and foundry interactions


What we need to see:

  • BS in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience)

  • At least 6+ years of hands-on layout design experience

  • Deep understanding of analog circuit layout concepts in submicron CMOS technologies. Validated experience with Cadence custom circuit design tools - particularly virtuoso

  • Experience running and debugging DRC and LVS with verification tools such as Dracula, Hercules, Calibre, Primeyield

  • Ability to work optimally in a team, good interpersonal skills and positive energy.

  • Proficiency in scripting languages like perl, python, skill etc. Knowledge of DRC and LVS checking flows, ability to customize DRC and LVS


NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and talented people in the world working for us. If you're creative and autonomous, we want to hear from you.
#LI-Hybrid

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 June 7, 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.

Nvidia logo

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

Year founded

1993