Engineers who design custom chips for specific applications. A critical role in the semiconductor industry, combining deep technical expertise with innovative problem-solving.
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.
A typical week is split between design, simulation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.
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.
Assist in the design and simulation of ASICs, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.
Own specific modules of ASIC designs, contribute to design reviews, and manage small projects.
Lead the design of complex ASICs, mentor junior engineers, and interface with clients and stakeholders.
Drive strategic initiatives, lead large-scale projects, and influence the direction of the company's ASIC design efforts.
There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.
Gain foundational knowledge in digital and analog circuit design, and start working on small projects.
Focus on ASIC-specific tools and methodologies, and begin contributing to larger design projects.
Work in a professional setting, collaborating with cross-functional teams and taking on more responsibility.
Take ownership of significant ASIC design projects, manage teams, and ensure project success.
Mentor junior engineers, drive innovation, and contribute to the strategic direction of the company.
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This role involves designing and integrating analog/mixed-signal circuits for advanced semiconductor packaging and heterogeneous integration. Responsibilities include PHY-level interfaces, custom pad circuits, and working with industry partners to develop and commercialize innovative solutions.
The Senior QPU Design Engineer will integrate features into complex chips for quantum computers, collaborating with scientists and fabrication engineers. Responsibilities include chip layout, multi-layer design, and project ownership.
Designs and implements manufacturing test solutions for high-complexity AI accelerator boards, covering ICT, boundary scan, and functional testing. Develops MCU-based test firmware and supports test station deployment at offshore production sites. Focuses on robust, repeatable validation of high-power, high-speed PCBAs with PCIe Gen6 and advanced power delivery.
This role involves developing and maintaining system-level hardware defect detection tests for AI accelerator servers, focusing on identifying manufacturing and field issues such as PCIe faults, cooling problems, and interconnect failures. The engineer will create fast, deterministic diagnostic tests used in factory and service environments, working closely with hardware, software, and manufacturing teams to ensure reliability. The position emphasizes root-cause analysis, test coverage improvement, and integration of diagnostics into production systems.
Lead the development and execution of system-level test strategies for a high-performance AI accelerator server platform, covering manufacturing, rack integration, and field deployment. Design automated tests for hardware, firmware, OS, cooling, and management subsystems, with deep integration into OpenBMC and Redfish. Drive testability across heterogeneous compute systems and high-speed PCIe Gen6 interconnects, while managing internal and external test engineering teams.
Develop and debug ATE test programs for an advanced AI accelerator chip, covering digital logic, memory, and high-speed interfaces. Perform silicon bring-up, characterization, and failure analysis while collaborating with design and DFT teams. Support high-volume manufacturing ramp and advanced packaging test flows.
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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