Principal ASIC Physical Design Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Principal ASIC Physical Design Engineer (Aerospace): Leading the implementation of complex SoCs for next-generation satellite systems with an accent on full RTL-to-GDSII flow ownership and advanced FinFET process nodes. Focus on achieving timing closure, optimizing PPA, and managing external design partners to ensure first-pass silicon success for space-qualified hardware.

Location: Must be based in Seattle, WA (Onsite). Role requires U.S. Person status due to ITAR export control regulations.

Salary: $190,000 – $280,000 + equity

Company

A Series C space startup building the largest and highest-power satellite platforms for missions from LEO to deep space.

What you will do

• Own the complete RTL-to-GDSII flow including synthesis, floorplanning, place & route, and sign-off.
• Develop and maintain physical design methodologies and automation to optimize PPA.
• Collaborate with front-end, verification, and packaging teams to ensure efficient design iteration.
• Drive timing closure across multiple voltage and process corners.
• Manage and technically guide external physical design partners and service vendors.
• Support chip bring-up, debug, and production integration for spaceflight hardware.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in ASIC physical design for high-performance SoCs.
• Must be a U.S. Person (citizen, green card holder, or protected individual) for ITAR compliance.
• Proven expertise in RTL-to-GDSII flows using industry-standard tools (Synopsys, Cadence, or Siemens).
• Strong hands-on experience with timing closure, IR drop analysis, and ECO implementation.
• Experience with advanced FinFET process nodes and managing outsourced PD teams.

Nice to have

• Exposure to radiation-hardened or space-qualified ASICs.
• Experience with chip-package co-design or advanced packaging (2.5D/3D).
• Experience driving tapeouts through TSMC.
• Familiarity with Gate-All-Around technologies.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off and paid parental leave.
• Equity participation in a high-growth space startup.
• Collaborative environment focused on rapid manufacturing and space exploration.