ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mask Layout Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple Inc.

Digital Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$144.60 - $263.80/hr

Designing complex custom layout for digital circuits in deep SubMicron CMOS technologies ... Use advanced CAD tools, mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design ...

Neuralink

Analog IC Layout Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · 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: * Bachelor ...

Cspeed

Package Design & Layout Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Cadence Allegro Package Designer / APD+ / SiP, Siemens Xpedition Package Designer, Synopsys IC ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

Cspeed

Package Design & Layout Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Cadence Allegro Package Designer / APD+ / SiP, Siemens Xpedition Package Designer, Synopsys IC ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

Superbeo

Analog Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

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 ...

Redolent, Inc

Graphic Designer

Sunnyvale, CA

... layout/typography, apply color theory, hierarchy and balance • Ability to troubleshoot minor ... layer masking and compositing). - understanding of responsive/adaptive design, HTML5/CSS3 ...

Apple

RFIC Layout Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

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 ...

Apple, Inc.

RFIC Layout Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

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 ...

Apple

RFIC Layout Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsMask Layout Designer JobsMask Layout Designer Jobs in California

Mask Layout Designer information

See California salary details

$9

$40

$99

How much do mask layout designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 is a mask layout designer?

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?

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:

Mask Layout Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mask Layout Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. 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.

Microelectronics Layout & Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Manhattan Beach, CA • On-site

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

The Northrop Grumman Microelectronics Center (NGMC) of Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creativeMicroelectronics Layout & Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer for our Space Park Foundry Lab (SPF) located in Manhattan Beach, California - where we design, manufacture, and test semiconductor products for internal and commercial production customers as well as emerging technology programs.

Northrop Grumman's SPF is a unique capability supporting a range of compound microelectronic devices (Gallium Arsenide, Gallium Nitride, Silicon Carbide, Indium Phosphide) and providing leading-edge technology development in microelectronics. Our devices enable several Northrop Grumman's ground-based radars, avionic radars, and space systems. Join us for the chance to work with an amazing, experienced, and talented team while helping serve your country. Enjoy the opportunity to grow and learn with a variety of challenging projects in R&D, ongoing long-term programs, and new programs targeting future commercial and military platforms. Our multidisciplinary foundry team enables activities from development to sustainment process engineering. SPF is responsible for all aspects of semiconductor technology including design, mask making, wafer fabrication, test, and assembly. The candidate must be a strong team participant, have excellent communication skills, and be resourceful and multitalented.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop Process Design Kits (PDKs) across multiple platforms (ADS, AWR, Cadence)

  • Support model development and integration into PDKs

  • Create DRC, LVS runsets across multiple platforms (ADS, AWR, Cadence)

  • Create scripts and automated flows to improve our mask layout and PDK infrastructure

  • Create Mask Layouts using Cadence

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or other related STEM discipline with 2 years of relevant experience (0 years with a Master's degree).

  • Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools

  • Experience with Process Design Kit (PDK) development

  • Has a programming background

  • Strong problem-solving skills

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

  • US Citizenship Required


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Mask layout experience

  • SKILL or AEL programming experience

  • ADS or AWR PDK Development experience

  • ADS, AWR, Calibre, or Assura DRC and LVS Development experience

  • Semiconductor Device Modeling experience

  • RF Design experience

  • Leadership or mentorship experience

Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

View All Northrop Grumman Jobs

Apply