RFIC Layout Engineer

Are you passionate about advancing the boundaries of RF analog circuit integration in advanced technology nodes for wireless transceivers? Do you thrive on innovation and improving RF layout methodologies? As an RFIC Layout Designer, you will be a key member of an RFIC team, tackling daily layout challenges, collaborating with skilled RFIC design and layout engineers, and continuously improving products that enrich user experiences worldwide.

As an RFIC Layout Designer, you will work closely with the RFIC design team to layout and verify custom RF and analog IP in advanced CMOS technology nodes. In this role, you will perform detailed custom block layout including floor planning, placement, routing, and verification for high‑frequency RF circuits. You will verify and refine layouts through simulation to meet design requirements and diagnose sophisticated verification and PDK issues using Cadence and Calibre.

You will have a direct impact on delivering Apple’s next‑generation wireless products into the hands of hundreds of millions of users.

• Detailed transistor‑level layout of RF and analog circuit blocks including LNAs, mixers, VCOs, PLLs, LO generation, power amplifiers, and bandgap/bias/LDO.
• Block‑level layout through the full verification flow including extraction, DRC, LVS, ERC, and DFM checking.
• Co‑work with designers on block‑level floor planning, placement, and routing.
• Layout review for power/ground routing, electromigration, signal path check, differential and IQ matching, and signal coupling.
• Diagnose sophisticated verification (DRC/LVS) and PDK issues using Cadence and Calibre.

• 8+ year minimum related experience required.
• Experience in custom RF/analog layout for radio transceivers with extensive knowledge of deep sub‑micron CMOS technologies (16nm, 7nm, and beyond).
• High‑level proficiency in interpretation of Calibre DRC, ERC, and LVS in FinFET technology.
• Knowledgeable in layout techniques for device matching, minimizing parasitics, RF shielding, and high‑frequency routing.
• Knowledge of Cadence layout tools.

• Solid understanding of RC delay, electromigration, IR drop, ESD, latch‑up, and coupling.
• Understanding of guard rings, deep N‑wells, PN junctions, and advanced process effects such as LOD, WPE, and DFM.
• Prior experience crafting custom layouts at the chip, block, and device levels, particularly for RF high‑frequency circuits.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work with cross‑functional teams.

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $44.57 and $79.18/hr, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including:
Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.

Note:

Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.