Principal Engineer, ASIC Development Engineering

Sandisk’s ASIC team builds state-of-the-art memory controllers that power world-class NAND Flash products used globally at massive scale. Design Enablement team enables the Technology, Methodology and Flows to the Physical Design team to deliver best in class products. As the PD Methodology / CAD Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in defining, architecting, and delivering robust RTL-to-GDS physical design methodologies on cutting-edge technology nodes, enabling best-in-class PPA, quality, and productivity.

This role is ideal for a seasoned PD methodology leader who enjoys solving complex cross-domain problems, working closely with foundries, and driving innovation across flows, tools, and teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement in PPA (Power, Performance, Area) and turnaround time through flow optimization, automation, and best practices.

• Work closely with foundry partners to understand node-specific challenges (design rules, variability, EM/IR, signoff requirements) and develop correct-by-construction solutions.

• Collaborate with IP teams, RTL design, DFT, and signoff teams to address cross-domain optimization challenges and enable smooth design convergence.

• Develop “shift-left” and “push-up” methodologies to detect and resolve issues early in the design cycle, improving predictability and schedules.

• Deliver high-quality, signoff-clean flows with strong emphasis on reliability, yield, and manufacturability.

• Leverage AI/ML techniques to improve quality, debug efficiency, predict design issues, and enhance overall productivity.

• Foster a culture of technical excellence and innovation, encouraging the team to develop novel solutions for next-generation challenges.

• 8+ years of experience in Physical Design, PD Methodology, or CAD for advanced ASICs.

• Deep, hands-on understanding of complete PD flow, including:

  • Synthesis

  • Logical Equivalence Checking (LEC)

  • DFT insertion and integration

  • Place & Route

  • Static Timing Analysis (STA)

  • Physical Verification

  • EM/IR analysis

• Strong grasp of inter-dependencies across the PD flow and their impact on design convergence and PPA.

• Proven experience architecting PD methodologies and flows for complex SoCs or IPs on advanced nodes.

• M.Tech in VLSI Design or a related field (or equivalent industry experience).

• Proficiency in scripting and automation using TCL, Perl, and/or Python.

• Experience working in multi-project, high-complexity environments with tight schedules.

Desirable Skills

• Exposure to advanced nodes  and complex signoff requirements.

• Experience with memory controllers or high-performance data-path designs.

• Prior experience applying AI/ML in EDA or design automation is a strong plus.

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Sandisk thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

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