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Vlsi Design Automation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

... physical VLSI design automation • Expert skills in C++, Java, or C# • Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20, Java 21, git, IDEA/Visual Studio/CLion, unit test ...

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Responsibilities : • designing, developing, debugging and supporting Design-for-Test software • software development in the area of VLSI Design Automation focusing on Design-for-Test logic ...

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Austin, TX

$121K - $160K/yr

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation * Expert skills in C++, Java , or C# * Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20 ...

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Vlsi Design Automation information

See salary details

$65K

$97.1K

$155K

How much do vlsi design automation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for vlsi design automation in the United States is $97,090.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VLSI Design Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VLSI Design Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in digital design, computer architecture, and programming, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering. Proficiency with EDA tools such as Cadence, Synopsys, and scripting languages like Python, Perl, or TCL, as well as knowledge of hardware description languages (HDLs) like Verilog or VHDL, is crucial. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure efficient automation of design processes, high-quality chip designs, and successful collaboration in complex engineering environments.

What are some common challenges faced in VLSI Design Automation roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in VLSI Design Automation often encounter challenges such as managing the increasing complexity of integrated circuits, meeting tight design timelines, and ensuring compatibility with evolving EDA tools. Addressing these challenges typically involves staying updated with the latest design methodologies, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams (such as verification, layout, and testing), and leveraging automation scripts to streamline repetitive tasks. Continuous learning and effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles and delivering high-quality, optimized chip designs.

What is VLSI design automation?

VLSI design automation involves using specialized software tools to automate the process of designing very-large-scale integrated circuits. It helps engineers create complex chip layouts efficiently by performing tasks such as logic synthesis, placement, routing, and verification, often using tools like CAD and EDA software. This automation reduces design time and improves accuracy in chip development.

What is the difference between Vlsi Design Automation vs Vlsi Design Engineer?

AspectVlsi Design AutomationVlsi Design Engineer
CredentialsKnowledge of CAD tools, EDA software, and digital design principlesBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering
Work EnvironmentPrimarily software development and tool creation in R&D or EDA companiesDesign and verification of integrated circuits in semiconductor companies or design firms
Industry UsageUsed across semiconductor, electronics, and EDA tool industriesApplied in chip design projects within similar industries

Vlsi Design Automation focuses on developing tools and methodologies to automate the chip design process, while Vlsi Design Engineers utilize these tools to create and verify integrated circuit designs. Both roles are essential in the semiconductor industry but differ in their primary functions and responsibilities.

Is VLSI replaced by AI?

VLSI design automation involves using specialized EDA tools and algorithms to develop integrated circuits efficiently. AI techniques are increasingly integrated into VLSI design processes to optimize layouts and reduce design time, but they have not replaced traditional VLSI design automation; instead, they enhance it. Professionals in VLSI design need to understand both circuit design principles and AI-based tools to stay current.

Is VLSI the highest paying job?

VLSI Design Automation engineers often earn high salaries due to their specialized skills in chip design and verification, with compensation increasing with experience and expertise in tools like Cadence or Synopsys. However, whether it is the highest paying job depends on industry, location, and individual qualifications, as other roles such as software architects or data scientists can also offer comparable or higher salaries.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

VLSI Design Automation engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in chip design, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in senior or managerial positions at major technology companies. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, reflecting the specialized expertise required in the field.
More about Vlsi Design Automation jobs
What cities are hiring for Vlsi Design Automation jobs? Cities with the most Vlsi Design Automation job openings:
What states have the most Vlsi Design Automation jobs? States with the most job openings for Vlsi Design Automation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vlsi Design Automation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vlsi Design Automation jobs are:
Infographic showing various Vlsi Design Automation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,090 per year, or $46.7 per hour.
Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

Senior VLSI CAD Software Engineer

NVIDIA

Westford, MA • On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 215 rated software companies


Job description

Job Summary:
NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. They are seeking a talented Software Engineer to build custom, high-impact VLSI CAD software, contributing to architecture and design in a streamlined Agile environment.
Responsibilities:
• Design, development, review, test, and support of high-capacity and high-performance chip design and visualization tools, with possible tasks ranging from modeling to algorithms
• Writing challenging, innovative, well-designed, high-quality new code for desktop engineering applications
• Participate in a variety of agile practices with fellow developers
• Collaborate with internal engineering customers worldwide to envision new tools and define their requirements
Qualifications:
Required:
• MS CS/CPE or BS CS/CPE (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 10 years of experience in CAD/EDA tool development
• Skill in CAD data structures and algorithms, especially for physical VLSI design automation
• Expert skills in C++, Java, or C#
• Proficiency with modern software platforms and tools (e.g. C++20, Java 21, git, IDEA/Visual Studio/CLion, unit test frameworks, CI/CD)
• Skilled in software system architecture and Object-Oriented design
• Desire to use sound software design principles in a modern and evolving AI environment
• Able to adapt to the needs of our team’s growing scope and vision
• Experience with AI-based code assistant tools
Preferred:
• Experience designing and writing code for large-scale design automation tools
• Performance analysis and tuning experience
• Knowledge of at least one physical CAD data model
• Interested in VLSI chip design concepts and EDA tools
Company:
NVIDIA is a computing platform company operating at the intersection of graphics, HPC, and AI. Founded in 1993, the company is headquartered in Santa Clara, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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Hours and flexibility

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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

Year founded

1993