Senior Backend Engineer – ASIC / Physical Design (all genders)

Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is a world-leading applied research organization with 75 institutes and research institutions across Germany, employing approximately 32,000 people and managing an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros. The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS in Erlangen, with over 1,200 employees, is the largest institute within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft.

About Us

For over 30 years, Fraunhofer IIS in Erlangen has been at the forefront of research in diverse fields including artificial intelligence, microelectronics, sensor systems, data acquisition, signal processing, and signal transmission. We offer a wide array of exciting research opportunities for talented individuals from various engineering and natural science disciplines. Our innovative strength is showcased in areas such as neuromorphic computing, 5G/6G mobile communication technologies, generative AI in speech and signal processing, and X-ray imaging for e-mobility.

What sustainable solution will you find with us?

Your Role in Our Team

Within our >>Integrated Circuits Back-End<< group, we tackle a variety of demanding projects utilizing advanced technologies. We are responsible for the physical implementation and verification of complex integrated circuits, guiding industry partners in realizing future-ready products, from classical ASICs to innovative chiplets.

To enhance our development team, we are seeking an experienced Backend Engineer for digital implementation from RTL synthesis through Tape-out. You will be instrumental in managing highly complex ASIC, SoC, and Chiplet Designs throughout the entire physical design flow.

Key Responsibilities:

• Digital Backend Implementation: Own the RTL-to-GDSII (RTL2GDS) implementation for ASICs, SoCs, and chiplets, ensuring sign-off quality.
• Physical Design and Timing Closure: Conduct synthesis, floorplanning, place & route, Clock Tree Synthesis (CTS), and timing closure analyses, optimizing for performance, power, and area (PPA).
• Advanced Technologies: Work with state-of-the-art technology nodes (e.g., FinFET, GAAFET).
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Cooperate closely with frontend, DFT, and verification teams, contributing actively to the integration of complete system solutions.
• Tape-out and Quality Assurance: Support the tape-out process through design reviews, technical alignment, and structured documentation.

What You Bring

• A degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or a comparable qualification, coupled with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in backend/physical design.
• Excellent command of the Cadence design flow (e.g., Genus, Innovus, Tempus) and Siemens EDA (Calibre).
• Substantial experience with advanced technology nodes, a mandatory requirement for this position.
• Preferred: Knowledge and practical experience in Design for Test (DFT), such as scan, ATPG, or boundary scan.
• Proficiency in using common EDA tools and scripting (e.g., Tcl, Python).
• A structured, analytical, and team-oriented approach with a high degree of independence and commitment to quality.
• Business-fluent English; German proficiency at A1 level is sufficient and can be developed further.

What We Offer

• Engaging Work: A diverse and challenging role in an international setting, focused on cutting-edge research and technology.
• Creative Freedom: Projects with strong practical relevance that empower our employees to drive innovation.
• Positive Work Culture: An environment characterized by open-mindedness, mutual support, and trust.
• State-of-the-Art Semiconductor Projects: Engage in leading-edge, future-oriented semiconductor projects and actively shape the development of modern ASIC, SoC, and Chiplet technologies.
• Personalized Onboarding: A structured onboarding process to help you integrate quickly and expand your network.
• Work-Life Balance: Support for your work-life balance through flexible working hours and hybrid work options.
• Professional Development: Ongoing support for your professional and personal growth through seminars, coaching, and language classes.

The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of extension. The standard workweek is 39 hours. Part-time employment is possible, ideally close to full-time.

We celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all individuals, irrespective of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation, or identity. Compensation and benefits are in accordance with the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Severely disabled individuals will be given preference in cases of equal qualification.

Fraunhofer plays a crucial role in the innovation process by developing key future technologies and facilitating their commercial application by businesses. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer actively shapes society today and for the future.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply online now and join our innovation journey! You will receive an automatic confirmation email upon submission, followed by prompt communication regarding the next steps.

For any questions regarding the application process, please contact our recruiter, Nina Wörlein.