K2 Space

K2 Space

Senior ASIC Physical Design Engineer

Seattle, WA · Senior

Sponsorship not specified$170k-$250kDetected 20 days ago
Vendor ManagementCadenceElectrical EngineeringCommunicationProblem Solving

About the role

  • We are seeking a Senior ASIC Physical Design Engineer to help implement advanced SoCs that power next-generation satellite and space systems.
  • In this role, you will contribute to the full physical design flow-from synthesis to GDSII-working closely with architecture, RTL, verification, and packaging teams.
  • You'll be a key contributor in achieving timing closure, optimizing PPA, and supporting design integration with external partners.

Responsibilities

  • Execute the complete physical design flow for complex SoC blocks and top-level integration, including synthesis, floorplanning, place & route, CTS, STA, and physical verification.
  • Perform timing closure and optimization across multiple corners and modes using industry-standard tools.
  • Collaborate with front-end, verification, and DFT teams to ensure clean handoff and predictable convergence.
  • Work with external physical design service providers and internal leads to review deliverables, resolve issues, and ensure schedule alignment.
  • Develop and maintain scripts and automation to improve flow efficiency and consistency.
  • Support physical sign-off activities including DRC/LVS, IR drop, EM, and power analysis.
  • Support your product through production and spaceflight.
  • Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 5-10 years of experience in ASIC physical design for complex SoCs.
  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools (Synopsys ICC2/Fusion Compiler, Cadence Innovus, or equivalent).
  • Strong understanding of timing analysis, power optimization, and physical verification flows.
  • Experience with hierarchical or flat SoC design methodologies.
  • Familiarity with FinFET technologies.
  • Working knowledge of DFT, UPF/CPF power intent, and ECO implementation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work cross-functionally in fast-paced environments.

Nice to have

  • Exposure to radiation-hardened or space-qualified ASICs.
  • Experience with chip-package co-design or advanced packaging (2.5D/3D).
  • Experience with sign-off through TSMC.
  • Experience with Gate-All-Around technologies.
  • Experience working in cross-functional, geographically distributed teams.
  • If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply!
  • Export Compliance
  • As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans).

Compensation

  • Compensation and Benefits:

Benefits

  • Base salary range for this role is $170,000 - $250,000 + equity in the company
  • Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision/ coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

Equal opportunity

  • K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer
  • employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
  • K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
  • If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

Visa & Work Authorization

  • Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person

This listing is sourced directly from K2 Space's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.