Semiconductor Integrated Circuit Layout Design Engineer
はんどうたいしゅうせきかいろレイアウトせっけいぎじゅつしゃ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Technical job that designs integrated circuit layouts on semiconductor chips and optimizes physical placement toward silicon manufacturing.
Description
Semiconductor integrated circuit layout design engineers determine transistor placement and wiring paths on silicon wafers based on logic circuit diagrams created by the circuit design department, and perform design rule checks (DRC) and layout vs. schematic checks (LVS). Considering performance, power consumption, area, and manufacturability, they perform physical design using EDA tools (Cadence, Synopsys, Mentor Graphics, etc.). Coordination with multiple departments is required, such as DFM compliance and post-silicon verification collaboration.
Future Outlook
With increasing demand for high-performance semiconductors such as AI, 5G, and IoT, the need for miniaturization and high-performance design skills will further increase. Advances in EDA automation will heighten the importance of tool operation skills.
Personality Traits
Logical Thinking / Meticulous / Patient / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Contract Work / Flex / In-House Product Development / Office Work / Remote / Team Projects
Career Path
Junior Layout Engineer → Senior Layout Engineer → Layout Team Leader → Physical Design Manager → Analog/Digital Circuit Design Engineer → System LSI Design Engineer
Required Skills
Design Rules / EDA Tool Operation / Electronic Circuit Basics / Physical Design / Semiconductor Process Understanding
Recommended Skills
DFM / Electromagnetic Field Analysis / Reading English Technical Documents / Scripting Languages / Transient-Resistant Design
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Logical thinking is essential to translate complex circuit designs into physical layouts. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Errors in minute dimensions or wiring can lead to product defects. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Acquiring new processes and EDA tools is always required. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical skills are required for dimension calculations and quantitative evaluation of electrical characteristics. |
| Problem Solving | Ability to resolve design rule violations and performance degradation is necessary. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly desk work with low physical load. |
Related Qualifications
Aliases
- IC Layout Engineer
- Semiconductor Layout Designer
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- Analog Circuit Design Engineer
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