How to Get a Better Semiconductor Job After a Lay-Off or Redundancy

Contents

• Understanding Redundancy in the Semiconductor Sector

• Step 1: Process and Refocus

• Step 2: Define Your Expertise and Career Direction

• Step 3: Update Your CV and Project Portfolio

• Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn and Technical Repositories

• Step 5: Connect with Specialist Recruiters and Employers

• Step 6: Apply Intelligently and Follow Up

• Step 7: Upskill in EDA Tools, Advanced Materials or Chiplet Design

• Step 8: Explore Contract, Government, or R&D Opportunities

• Step 9: Manage Finances and Sustain Momentum

• Bonus: Top UK Semiconductor Employers Hiring in 2025

• Final Thoughts: Redundancy as a Strategic Reset

Understanding Redundancy in the Semiconductor Sector

Job losses in semiconductors often stem from:

• Foundry shutdowns or supplier delays

• Delays in tape-out schedules

• M&A-driven headcount reductions

Yet demand remains strong in:

• Custom silicon design

• Compound semiconductors (GaN, SiC)

• Photonics and quantum hardware

• Chip verification and IP

• Embedded systems and silicon-software integration

Step 1: Process and Refocus

• Take time to evaluate your strengths and preferences

• Decide whether to continue in design, testing, manufacturing, or R&D

• Reassess ideal sector: consumer electronics, telecoms, defence, automotive, etc.

Step 2: Define Your Expertise and Career Direction

Clarify:

• What tools and platforms do you specialise in? (e.g. Cadence, Synopsys, Silvaco)

• Are you strongest in physical design, RTL, DFT, analog, or embedded integration?

• What standards or node sizes are you experienced with? (e.g. 5nm, 28nm, GaN, SiGe)

Step 3: Update Your CV and Project Portfolio

Your CV should include:

• A clear summary (e.g. “SoC Design Engineer | RTL | DFT | Open to Work”)

• Project outcomes (e.g. “Reduced leakage by 12% through layout optimisation”)

• Tape-out experience, verification frameworks, fabrication process

• Links to patents, research papers, or public design contributions

Step 4: Optimise LinkedIn and Technical Repositories

LinkedIn Tips:

• Headline: “Semiconductor Process Engineer | CMOS | GaN | Open to Work”

• About: Detail your technical skills, project history, and goals

• Feature conference talks, whitepapers, or clean-room certifications

GitHub/Portfolio:

• Share Verilog/VHDL modules, testbench setups, or CAD tool scripts (where IP allows)

• Document open-source hardware collaborations or simulation models

Sample LinkedIn About Section:

Semiconductor Design Engineer | RTL & Verification | Open to Work

I’m a chip design engineer with 6+ years' experience in RTL design, formal verification, and cross-functional tape-out coordination. Made redundant during a restructuring, I’m now seeking a new role in SoC development, ASIC verification, or low-power architecture.

Toolset: Verilog, SystemVerilog, UVM, Cadence Innovus, Synopsys VCS

Step 5: Connect with Specialist Recruiters and Employers

Recruiter Message Example:

Subject: SoC Engineer | ASIC Design | Available Immediately

Hi [Recruiter’s Name],

I’m currently seeking a new opportunity after a recent redundancy. My background includes ASIC/SoC RTL design, verification, and post-silicon debug. I’ve attached my CV and would be glad to connect regarding relevant opportunities.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn]
[CV attachment]

Hiring Manager Follow-Up Example:

Subject: Application – Semiconductor Verification Engineer Role at [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I recently applied for the Verification Engineer role and wanted to share my strong interest. I bring hands-on experience with UVM testbenches, power-aware simulations, and regression frameworks. I’m currently available and ready to contribute.

CV attached—happy to discuss further.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]

Step 6: Apply Intelligently and Follow Up

• Prioritise roles that match your tools and experience level

• Tailor your CV with job-specific keywords

• Keep a spreadsheet tracker for applications and follow-ups

• Revisit listings after 7–10 days and reach out to hiring contacts

Step 7: Upskill in EDA Tools, Advanced Materials or Chiplet Design

Stay competitive by learning:

• Latest EDA flows (e.g. Synopsys Fusion Compiler, Cadence Cerebrus)

• RISC-V or chiplet-based design

• Power-aware verification tools

• Material advances (e.g. 2D materials, neuromorphic substrates)

• Take courses from edX, IET, or IMEC Academy

Step 8: Explore Contract, Government, or R&D Opportunities

Consider roles with:

• UKRI-supported microelectronics programmes

• Compound semiconductor cluster in Wales (e.g. CSA Catapult)

• Space, defence and automotive companies investing in custom silicon

• University spinouts or open-source silicon consortia

Step 9: Manage Finances and Sustain Momentum

• Apply for redundancy pay, Universal Credit or JSA

• Use budgeting tools (MoneyHelper, Turn2Us)

• Schedule weekly time for job search, learning, and rest

• Join Slack/Discord groups or IET forums for peer support

Bonus: Top UK Semiconductor Employers Hiring in 2025

1. Graphcore

2. Arm

3. Pragmatic Semiconductor

4. XMOS

5. Imagination Technologies

6. CSA Catapult (Wales)

7. Microchip Technology

8. Intel UK

9. Dialog Semiconductor (Renesas)

10. IQE

11. Cadence UK

12. Synopsys UK

13. BAE Systems (Custom Silicon/RF)

14. Riverlane (Quantum hardware integration)

15. University of Southampton/Cambridge silicon initiatives

Final Thoughts: Redundancy as a Strategic Reset

Redundancy is difficult, but it could position you for an even better role in a growing UK semiconductor ecosystem. With targeted outreach, smart upskilling, and a clear career narrative, your next role could align better with your ambitions.

You’re not starting over—you’re levelling up.

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