CAD Physical Design Methodology Engineer - Cork, Ireland

Company: QT Technologies Ireland Limited Job Area: Engineering Group, Engineering Group > ASICS Engineering General Summary: About the Role: Join Qualcomm’s Global CAD organization and help shape the RTL‑to‑GDSII reference flows that power our next‑generation SoCs. In this highly visible role, you’ll build and deploy advanced Physical Design methodologies and automation that improve PPA (Power, Performance, Area), quality, and design turnaround time across leading‑edge technology nodes (sub‑3nm). You’ll collaborate with PD, IP, DTCO, and EDA partners worldwide, operating at the intersection of technology enablement, flow innovation, and production execution with a strong culture of learning and cross‑site collaboration. Key Responsibilities:
- Lead technology enablement and develop scalable reference flows for advanced process nodes (sub‑4nm), addressing deep sub‑micron design challenges. - Collaborate closely with EDA vendors to deliver production‑ready toolchains and drive continuous improvements in PPA across multiple design blocks. - Partner with core and SoC design teams to define and implement solutions for advanced multi‑die architectures and next‑generation technology nodes. - Validate end‑to‑end physical design solutions across synthesis, place‑and‑route, timing sign‑off, and physical verification. - Work cross‑functionally with EDA vendors, physical design, and IP teams to diagnose and resolve issues related to technology enablement and PD execution. *Please note this role will require 5 days per week onsite in our Cork office* What We’re Looking For: - Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). - Strong foundation in CMOS circuit design and core VLSI concepts. - Minimum of 3 years of hands on experience in Physical Design, including: o Floorplanning expertise for advanced technology nodes (4nm and below). o Proven Place & Route experience using Synopsys Fusion Compiler and/or Cadence Innovus. o In depth knowledge of placement optimization, clock tree synthesis (skew balancing), congestion mitigation, and legalization. o Experience with DRC debugging and sign off physical verification using Calibre. o Solid understanding of technology LEFs, standard cell libraries, and advanced node DRC rule decks. o Demonstrated ability to deliver PPA critical designs and make informed architectural and implementation trade offs. o Timing closure experience using PrimeTime and/or Tempus, along with IR analysis and GDS generation. - Strong scripting capabilities (Perl, Tcl, Python) and proficiency in Linux/Unix environments. - Excellent analytical thinking, debugging, and problem solving skills. - Proven experience working effectively in large, cross functional teams while meeting aggressive project milestones.
Why Join Us? - Work on cutting‑edge technologies that power next‑generation products at scale. - Join a high‑performing, global team that values technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration. - Grow your career through continuous learning and meaningful impact in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment. Location: Cork, Ireland Cork is Ireland’s second-largest economic hub and one of Europe’s Top 20 business locations, hosting over 170 international companies and employing 39,000 professionals. With excellent quality of life, cultural diversity, and connectivity to nearly 50 international destinations, Cork offers an ideal setting for work and life.
About Us: Qualcomm Cork, a greenfield site based in the beautiful harbour city of Cork opened its doors in August 2013 and has been growing ever since across our QCT Engineering, OneIT and HR teams. The Cork QCT engineering team is continuing to expand. Our engineers work on all aspects of leading-edge technology, including; Analog Mixed Signal, Security, Power Management, Sensors, Machine Learning, Modelling, Validation, Design Automation, Automotive and Physical Design. We are the R&D engine that benefits the world in three ways: Enabling Customers, Transforming Industries and Enriching Lives.

Giving Back:
Employees in Cork have a strong sense of community. We are encouraged through the philanthropic endeavours of the Qualcomm Foundation to support causes that matter to us.
What's on Offer: Apart from working in an open, relaxed and collaborative space, you will enjoy: - Salary, stock and performance related bonus - Maternity/Paternity Leave - Employee stock purchase scheme - Matching pension scheme - Education Assistance - Relocation and immigration support (if needed) - Life, Medical, Income and Travel Insurance - Subsidised memberships for physical and mental well-being - Bicycle purchase scheme - Employee run clubs, including, running, football, chess, badminton + many more. Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, or related field and 2+ years of ASIC design, verification, validation, integration, or related work experience.

OR
Master's degree in Science, Engineering, or related field and 1+ year of ASIC design, verification, validation, integration, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Science, Engineering, or related field. *References to a particular number of years experience are for indicative purposes only. Applications from candidates with equivalent experience will be considered, provided that the candidate can demonstrate an ability to fulfill the principal duties of the role and possesses the required competencies. Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here . Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries). Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law. To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies : Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications. If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers .