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
2
Hiring companies
1

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.

ASIC Design
100%
SoC
100%
RTL
100%
Power Analysis
100%
Timing Closure
100%
Verification
100%
Validation
100%
AI
100%
Video Processing
100%
Low-Power Communications
100%
CMOS Fabrication
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

2 live roles

Frontend ASIC Design Engineer

Frontend ASIC Design EngineerLondon, Hybrid Working (2 Days Per Week On Site Near Fenchurch Street Station)£70,000 - £90,000 + BenefitsExcellent opportunity for a Frontend Digital Design Engineer to join a specialist semiconductor company working on innovative memory technology and advanced...

Rise Technical Recruitment London, City And County Of the City Of London, United Kingdom £70,000 – £90,000 pa
Amazon logo

Sr. ASIC Design Engineer, Blink/Ring ASIC Team

As a Senior ASIC Design Engineer, you will work on cutting-edge SoC designs for Amazon's smart home devices, including cameras and doorbells. Your responsibilities will include defining architecture specifications, leading and mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality, energy-efficient designs.

Amazon Cambridge, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

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.

Hiring asic design engineers?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.