ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phd Semiconductor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fractile

Lead Physical Design Engineer

Bristol, VA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field ... Solid understanding of CMOS technology, semiconductor physics, and process limitations. * Expertise ...

previous page

Showing results 21-22

All JobsPhd Semiconductor JobsPhd Semiconductor Jobs in Virginia

Phd Semiconductor information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$88.1K

$146.2K

How much do phd semiconductor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd semiconductor in Virginia is $88,111.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD semiconductor professional?

PhD Semiconductor professionals are experts who have earned a doctoral degree (PhD) with a focus on semiconductor physics, materials, devices, or related engineering fields. They conduct advanced research and development on semiconductor technologies, which are essential for electronics like computers, smartphones, and solar cells. These professionals often work in academia, research institutions, or the semiconductor industry, contributing to innovations in microchips, nanotechnology, and fabrication processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD semiconductor researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Semiconductor Researcher, you need advanced knowledge in semiconductor physics, materials science, and device fabrication, typically supported by a doctorate in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as TCAD), cleanroom processes, and analytical tools like electron microscopes is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective scientific communication help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for driving innovation, publishing impactful research, and contributing to technological advancements in the semiconductor industry.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD professionals working in the semiconductor industry, and how can they be addressed?

PhD professionals in the semiconductor industry often face challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, the need to stay current with cutting-edge research, and balancing long-term innovation with immediate project goals. Additionally, working in multidisciplinary teams requires strong communication skills to translate complex research into practical solutions. Overcoming these challenges involves continuous learning, active collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams, and participating in industry conferences or workshops to stay updated on trends and breakthroughs.

What is the difference between Phd Semiconductor vs Semiconductor Engineer?

AspectPhd SemiconductorSemiconductor Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D departmentsDesign, develop, and test semiconductor devices in manufacturing or R&D
Industry UsageAcademic research, advanced R&D, specialized industry rolesProduct development, manufacturing, and engineering teams

While a Phd Semiconductor focuses on advanced research and theoretical development in semiconductors, a Semiconductor Engineer applies practical engineering skills to design and produce semiconductor devices. Both roles are integral to the industry but differ mainly in their focus on research versus application.

Can you work in industry with a PhD semiconductor?

A PhD in semiconductor technology qualifies individuals for various industry roles such as research scientist, process engineer, or product development engineer. These positions often require strong technical skills, familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes, and experience with tools like CAD software and cleanroom environments. Many PhD holders work in industry to develop new materials, improve manufacturing techniques, or innovate semiconductor devices.

How much does a PhD in semiconductors make?

A PhD in semiconductors typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior roles or those in research and development may offer higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in device physics or fabrication processes.

What jobs can I get with a PhD in semiconductor?

A PhD in semiconductor typically qualifies individuals for research scientist, semiconductor process engineer, device physicist, or materials scientist roles in industries such as electronics, aerospace, and research institutions. These positions often require expertise in device fabrication, materials analysis, and simulation tools, and may involve working in labs or cleanroom environments.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Semiconductor jobs in Virginia?

For Phd Semiconductor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Semiconductor jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Semiconductor jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Semiconductor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Semiconductor job openings:

Phd Semiconductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Semiconductor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,111 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Lead Physical Design Engineer

Fractile

Bristol, VA • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Drive the physical implementation of ASIC/SoC designs, including floorplanning, placement, clock tree synthesis, routing, and sign-off.

  • Lead or contribute to full-chip execution, block ownership, team leadership, or chip leadership, depending on project needs.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimise performance, power, and area (PPA) while ensuring design integrity and manufacturability.

Job description

Fractile’s mission is to enable a new chapter in the AI revolution. We’re pioneering AI innovation where hardware and software join to create something extraordinary, unlocking the power of the world’s largest language models with speed increases of x100. Our team is rapidly expanding, and we're searching for visionary engineers, scientists, and thinkers who share our passion for pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible. If you're ready to join a dynamic group of innovators shaping AI's future, we want to hear from you!

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Physical Design Engineer to contribute to our next-generation chip designs. As a Lead Physical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the end-to-end implementation of complex IC physical designs, from synthesis to sign-off. In this role, you will take on leadership responsibilities across multiple dimensions, including full-chip ownership, leading a team of physical design engineers, and contributing to broader chip-level physical design leadership. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including logic design, verification, and process technology, to optimise performance, power, and area (PPA) while ensuring design integrity and manufacturability.

Key Responsibilities
  • Drive the physical implementation of ASIC/SoC designs, including floorplanning, placement, clock tree synthesis (CTS), routing, and sign-off.
  • Lead or contribute to full-chip execution, block ownership, team leadership, or chip leadership, depending on project needs.
  • Work on synthesis, timing analysis (STA), and optimisation to achieve the best PPA metrics.
  • Own power planning and analysis, addressing IR drop, electromigration, and related effects.
  • Ensure design rule check (DRC), layout vs. schematic (LVS), and other physical verification compliance.
  • Collaborate with DFT engineers to integrate design-for-test (DFT) structures into the physical implementation.
  • Develop and improve flows in EDA tools such as Cadence Innovus, Synopsys Fusion Compiler, Mentor Graphics Calibre, and others.
  • Work closely with RTL and architecture teams to drive design feasibility, constraints, and physical-aware RTL design.
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to building strong physical design practices across the team.
  • Work with advanced AI tools and models to improve productivity, analysis, and design quality.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in physical design for advanced technology nodes (e.g., 7nm, 5nm, or below).
  • Strong proficiency in EDA tools for place & route, STA, and sign-off.
  • Solid understanding of CMOS technology, semiconductor physics, and process limitations.
  • Expertise in timing closure, signal integrity, IR drop analysis, and formal verification.
  • Proficiency in scripting languages like TCL, Perl, or Python for automation.
  • Proven ability to take ownership of complex designs and drive them to completion.
  • Experience mentoring engineers and leading physical design efforts.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, communication, and teamwork in a collaborative design environment.
  • Experience in high-performance computing (HPC), AI accelerators, or networking chips.
  • Experience or strong interest in leveraging advanced AI tools and models within engineering workflows.

Fractile is building silicon, systems and software which will redefine the frontier of AI: running the world’s most advanced models at radically higher speed and lower cost. We have an exceptional team across hardware and software capable of bringing about this change, and we are growing fast to meet demand and deliver our product at scale.

How we work
  • Ownership and execution: you will have full agency to drive your work forward
  • Rapid iteration: we all work directly with top leadership to move from idea to hardware on ambitious timelines
  • Full-stack engagement: hardware, software, silicon, and modelling teams all work closely together to create a product with generational impact
  • Optimistic and pragmatic: we possess the will to win, and to do the hard work to get us there
  • Team player mentality: the mission is bigger than any of us, and we have the curiosity and technical focus to see the best idea shipped, no matter who’s it is
About us
  • Founded in 2022, team of 90+ which is expanding rapidly
  • Modern, open offices in London and Bristol
  • Collaborative, problem-solving culture built on deep curiosity, entrepreneurial initiative and technical fluency
Export control and security clearance

Certain roles may involve working on technologies subject to export restrictions. Applicants may be required to undergo additional eligibility checks to ensure compliance with applicable law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply