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ASIC Design Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design custom chips for specific applications. A critical role in the semiconductor industry, combining deep technical expertise with innovative problem-solving.

Open roles
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Hiring companies
1
View 1 live role → Get an alert

An ASIC Design Engineer is at the heart of the semiconductor industry, focusing on the development of Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). These custom chips are designed for specific tasks, ranging from consumer electronics to advanced industrial and automotive applications. Companies ranging from scaleups to the larger consultancies rely on ASIC Design Engineers to create efficient, high-performance solutions that meet unique requirements. The role demands a blend of technical depth, creativity, and a strong understanding of both hardware and software.

What the role does

Inside the role of an ASIC Design Engineer

A typical week is split between design, simulation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Design and optimise ASIC architectures.
  2. 02
    Run simulations to validate design performance.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with hardware and software teams.
  4. 04
    Document design decisions and specifications.
  5. 05
    Participate in design reviews and feedback sessions.
  6. 06
    Stay updated with the latest semiconductor technologies and tools.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Frontend Digital Design
100%
RTL
100%
System-Level Design
100%
Design Verification
100%
EDA Tools
100%
Synopsys
100%
IC Design
100%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for asic design engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior ASIC Design Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and simulation of ASICs, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    ASIC Design Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Own specific modules of ASIC designs, contribute to design reviews, and manage small projects.

  3. Level 3

    Senior ASIC Design Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead the design of complex ASICs, mentor junior engineers, and interface with clients and stakeholders.

  4. Level 4

    Principal ASIC Design Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Drive strategic initiatives, lead large-scale projects, and influence the direction of the company's ASIC design efforts.

Pathway

How to become a ASIC Design Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Learn the Basics

    Gain foundational knowledge in digital and analog circuit design, and start working on small projects.

  2. 2

    Specialise in ASIC Design

    Focus on ASIC-specific tools and methodologies, and begin contributing to larger design projects.

  3. 3

    Gain Industry Experience

    Work in a professional setting, collaborating with cross-functional teams and taking on more responsibility.

  4. 4

    Lead Projects

    Take ownership of significant ASIC design projects, manage teams, and ensure project success.

  5. 5

    Mentor and Innovate

    Mentor junior engineers, drive innovation, and contribute to the strategic direction of the company.

Live jobs

1 live role

ic resources logo

ASIC Design Engineer

Design and develop complex ASICs across the full silicon development lifecycle, from specification to silicon supply. Work with digital and analogue IC technologies, take ownership of projects, and collaborate within a close-knit engineering team on cutting-edge solutions for advanced technology applications.

ic resources Bristol, Eng, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Bristol

Location
1 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include a strong background in digital and analog circuit design, proficiency in ASIC design tools, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

  • Career progression typically starts with junior roles, advancing to senior and principal positions, and eventually leading to strategic and leadership roles within the company.

  • Industries that hire ASIC Design Engineers include semiconductor manufacturing, consumer electronics, automotive, and aerospace, among others.

  • Salaries for ASIC Design Engineers can vary widely based on experience and location. For specific salary ranges, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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