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Mask Layout 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 ...

Apple Inc.

Digital Layout Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$167 - $296/hr

Use advanced CAD tools, mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Minimum Qualifications * Bachelors degree in relevant field of study plus 10 ...

New

Apple Inc.

Digital Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$144.60 - $263.80/hr

Use advanced CAD tools, mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design representation of circuits. Minimum Qualifications * Bachelors degree in relevant field of study plus 3 ...

Cspeed

Package Design & Layout Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and AutoCAD file exchange. * Experience with package/IC co-design environments (e.g. Cadence Integrity ...

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All JobsMask Layout JobsMask Layout Jobs in California

Mask Layout information

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How much do mask layout jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for mask layout in California is $19.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mask layout engineer?

Mask Layout engineers, also known as layout designers, are professionals who create the detailed layouts for integrated circuits (ICs) used in semiconductor manufacturing. They translate circuit schematics into precise geometric patterns that define where components like transistors and wires will be placed on a silicon wafer. This process is critical in ensuring that the final chip functions as intended and meets performance, area, and manufacturing requirements. Mask Layout engineers work closely with circuit designers and fabrication teams to optimize layouts for manufacturability, performance, and reliability.

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

To thrive as a Mask Layout Engineer, you need strong knowledge of semiconductor physics, IC design principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools such as Cadence Virtuoso or Mentor Graphics, and understanding of DRC and LVS checks, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, efficient, and manufacturable chip layouts, directly impacting product quality and time to market.

What are some common challenges faced by mask layout engineers when working with cross-functional teams?

Mask Layout Engineers often collaborate closely with circuit designers, process engineers, and verification teams. A common challenge is aligning layout requirements with circuit specifications while adhering to foundry design rules and timelines. Effective communication and proactive issue resolution are crucial to ensure design intent is maintained and potential manufacturability or yield issues are identified early. Mask Layout Engineers also need to manage feedback from multiple stakeholders, which requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

What is the difference between Mask Layout vs Photomask Designer?

AspectMask LayoutPhotomask Designer
Primary RoleDesigns the geometric patterns for semiconductor masks at the layout level.Creates detailed photomask patterns based on circuit designs, focusing on manufacturability.
Skills & CertificationsVLSI design, CAD tools, semiconductor process knowledgeCAD software proficiency, semiconductor fabrication understanding
Work EnvironmentEDA tool environments, cleanroom facilities, design teamsDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, collaboration with fabrication teams
Industry UsageUsed in semiconductor chip design and fabricationUsed in photomask manufacturing for chip production

Mask Layout involves creating the geometric patterns for semiconductor masks, focusing on circuit design and layout optimization. Photomask Designer specializes in translating these designs into detailed photomask patterns for manufacturing. While both roles require similar technical skills and work environments, Mask Layout is more design-oriented, whereas Photomask Designer emphasizes pattern accuracy for fabrication.

What are popular job titles related to Mask Layout jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Mask Layout jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mask Layout job openings:

Mask Layout jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mask Layout job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,449 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Senior Mask Design Engineer - Hardware

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 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 January 13, 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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