Senior/Staff Silicon Physical Design Engineer

Job description

Join Axelera AI, a global pioneer in deep-tech, as we build the next-generation AI platform to advance humanity. In just four years, we have scaled to a team of over 220 world-class experts and launched our Metis™ AI Platform, which delivers a 3-5x increase in efficiency over existing solutions. We are seeking a Senior/Staff Silicon Physical Design Engineer to drive the development of our multi-core in-memory compute SoCs. This is a high-impact role where you will take ownership of the ASIC Physical Design flow from RTL to GDS, working within an open, innovative culture that values collaborative ownership and pushes the boundaries of semiconductor performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform synthesis, floorplanning, place and route, extraction, timing analysis, and physical verification.

• Constraint generation, timing analysis and optimization.

• Execute clock tree synthesis (CTS) and custom clock-building techniques.

• Integrate IPs including memories, I/Os, embedded processors, DDR, networking fabrics, and analog IPs.

• Utilize EDA tools such as Primetime, StarRC, Genus, Innovus, Design Compiler, ICC/ICC2, FC, and Calibre.

• Develop automation scripts in Python, Tcl, Bash and contribute to flow development.

• Debug and solve technical challenges related to physical design.

• Collaborate with architecture, RTL, and verification teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in Physical Design (RTL to GDS).

• Hands-on expertise with leading EDA tools (Primetime, StarRC, Genus, Innovus, ICC2, etc.).

• Proficiency in clocking techniques, CTS, and IP integration across various domains.

• Strong scripting skills in Python and Tcl.

• Proven problem-solving capabilities and fluency in English.

• Preferred: Experience in top-level integration, chip-package-board co-simulation, and working directly with EDA vendors to resolve tool issues.

Work Environment and Rewards

We offer a truly flexible working model, allowing you to work from our Bristol office, fully remotely from any European country, or relocate to our hubs in Italy or the Netherlands (with priority given to candidates based in Italy or Belgium). At Axelera AI, you will receive an attractive compensation package that includes a pension plan, extensive insurance, and the opportunity to own a piece of the company through share options. You’ll be joining a diverse, PhD-heavy team of innovators in a fast-growing organization where your creativity is encouraged and your contributions directly shape the future of artificial intelligence.