Senior Implementation Methodology Engineer

NVIDIA NVIDIA · Semiconductors · Santa Clara, CA

This role focuses on developing and improving the RTL2GDS implementation methodology for advanced-node CPU silicon. It involves evaluating EDA tools, defining standards, conducting experiments for optimization, and building automation frameworks. The goal is to drive PPA targets, resolve bottlenecks, and improve engineering throughput, with a potential application of AI/ML for flow optimization.

What you'd actually do

  1. Own and continuously improve the end-to-end RTL2GDS implementation methodology — covering synthesis, place & route, CTS, and equivalence checking — for advanced-node CPU builds.
  2. Evaluate new EDA tools and process node capabilities. Deliver clear adoption recommendations. Serve as the technical liaison between internal teams and EDA vendors (Synopsys, Cadence) to resolve tool issues and influence vendor roadmaps.
  3. Define and enforce implementation methodology BKMs and flow standards across development teams; maintain user documentation and lead training on tools and flows.
  4. Build and complete rigorous A/B and multi-variant experiments to quantitatively compare flows, engine settings, and optimization strategies for QoR impact.
  5. Drive aggressive PPA targets throughout the full implementation cycle. Conduct deep root-cause analysis on timing closure bottlenecks, power limiters, and long-tail QoR issues. Develop methodologies to resolve these problems at scale.

Skills

Required

  • BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 6+ years of hands-on proven experience in ASIC implementation methodology and EDA tool/flow development.
  • Deep, practical expertise in the complete RTL2GDS flow: synthesis, DFT, floorplanning, placement, CTS, routing, and MCMM STA.
  • Power user of synthesis and place-and-route tools from Synopsys (DC/FC, ICC2, PrimeTime) and/or Cadence (Genus, Innovus, Tempus).
  • Prior experience in data-focused EDA tool evaluation, flow benchmarking, and methodology development with demonstrated PPA impact.
  • Strong scripting proficiency in Python, TCL, Perl, and/or Make for flow automation and analysis.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive complex, cross-functional technical initiatives — aligning build, CAD, and EDA vendor teams toward shared goals.
  • Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills with a track record of simplifying complex, cluttered environments.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for diverse audiences.

Nice to have

  • Demonstrated application of AI/ML or GenAI techniques to physical build, QoR analysis, flow automation, or design space exploration — in production or research contexts.
  • Solid understanding of front-end flows and methodology: RTL build intent, DFT insertion, synthesis constraints, and UPF/CPF low-power build — enabling an end-to-end perspective.

What the JD emphasized

  • advanced-node CPU builds
  • EDA tool evaluation
  • methodology development
  • PPA impact
  • AI/ML or GenAI techniques