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Pdk Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amat

Physical Design PDK Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $208K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions ... Expertise in PDK enablement and library validation/automation. * Hands-on experience with LVS ...

Intel

Director - PDK Architecture

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related discipline. * 10+ years in semiconductor technology development, design enablement, EDA, PDK ...

Intel

Technical Program Manager - PDK

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

The Process Design Kits (PDK) team is part of Intel's larger Design Technology Platform (DTP ... Serve as the primary interface between engineering teams, business stakeholders, and leadership.

New

GlobalFoundries

SMTS Design Enablmt PDK

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$118K - $239K/yr

Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver best-in-class DRC solutions that ... Collaborate with different stakeholders to program manage PDK deliverables GlobalFoundries RF ...

Globalfoundries

SMTS Design Enablmt PDK

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$118K - $239K/yr

Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver best-in-class DRC solutions that ... Collaborate with different stakeholders to program manage PDK deliverables GlobalFoundries RF ...

SpaceX

EDA Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

Irvine, CA · On-site

The role focuses on keeping EDA tools reliable, PDK and flow usage reproducible, and designers ... The engineer will partner design teams, other EDA engineers, IT/server teams, foundries, and EDA ...

SpaceX

EDA Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

Irvine, CA · On-site

EDA ENGINEER (RFIC ENGINEERING) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and ... The role focuses on keeping EDA tools reliable, PDK and flow usage reproducible, and designers ...

SpaceX

EDA Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

Irvine, CA · On-site

EDA ENGINEER (RFIC ENGINEERING) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and ... The role focuses on keeping EDA tools reliable, PDK and flow usage reproducible, and designers ...

Nokia

Senior Analog EDA/CAD ASIC Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$120K - $171K/yr

Tasks will include significant tool and PDK customization and design team support. The self-motivated engineer must be able to anticipate problems and devise effective solutions. Responsibilities:

MaxLinear, Inc.

Senior Staff Device Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

R & D in semiconductor device engineering, especially in device characterization for both RF/analog ... Test structure design for device layout/structure optimization and PDK development for advanced ...

Ayar Labs

Sr. Staff Engineer, Photonics Design

San Jose, CA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Sr. Staff Engineer, Photonics Design Location: San Jose (on-site) Ayar Labs is shattering AI data ... PDK you're given, but influencing what that process can achieve. And you'll shape the design and ...

MaxLinear, Inc.

Senior Staff Device Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

R & D in semiconductor device engineering, especially in device characterization for both RF/analog ... Test structure design for device layout/structure optimization and PDK development for advanced ...

MaxLinear, Inc.

Senior Staff Device Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

R & D in semiconductor device engineering, especially in device characterization for both RF/analog ... Test structure design for device layout/structure optimization and PDK development for advanced ...

MaxLinear, Inc.

Senior Staff Device Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

R & D in semiconductor device engineering, especially in device characterization for both RF/analog ... Test structure design for device layout/structure optimization and PDK development for advanced ...

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How much do pdk engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for pdk engineer in California is $105,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,300.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PDK engineer?

A PDK (Process Design Kit) Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and validating process design kits used in semiconductor design and fabrication. They work closely with foundries, design teams, and EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tool vendors to ensure accurate models, rule files, and automation scripts for technology nodes. PDK Engineers play a crucial role in optimizing design flow, ensuring manufacturability, and improving process efficiency in semiconductor development.

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

To thrive as a PDK Engineer, you need a strong background in semiconductor physics, process technology, and electronic design automation (EDA), typically with a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Experience with tools like Cadence Virtuoso, Mentor Graphics, and proficiency in scripting languages such as Python and TCL are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail set candidates apart in this highly collaborative role. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring accurate and efficient delivery of Process Development Kits, which are essential for successful semiconductor design flows.

What are some typical challenges faced by PDK engineers in their daily work?

PDK Engineers often face the challenge of ensuring that design kits remain compatible with rapidly evolving process technologies and EDA tool updates. They must carefully balance accuracy and performance when validating, debugging, and documenting PDK components, often under tight project timelines. Collaboration with process engineers, design teams, and EDA tool vendors is essential to resolve technical issues and ensure seamless integration. This dynamic environment requires adaptability and strong troubleshooting skills to deliver reliable PDKs that meet the evolving needs of semiconductor designers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pdk Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pdk Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Pdk Engineer jobs in California?

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

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Pdk Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pdk Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,877 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Microelectronics Layout & Process Design Kit (PDK) Engineer

Manhattan Beach, CA • On-site

Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Northrop Grumman Corporationexternal

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

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.
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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

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