Semiconductor Layout & Tape-Out Engineer

Job description

Position Overview

The Layout Tape-Out Support Engineer is responsible for end-to-end tape-out execution for Gallium Nitride (GaN) technologies. This role supports multiple concurrent tape-out flows, ensuring accurate, high-quality mask data delivery while enabling effective collaboration across global and Japanese-speaking teams.

Key Responsibilities

Layout & Design Support Perform and support PCM (Process Control Monitor) layout development and verification. Design and maintain alignment mark layouts in compliance with lithography and process requirements. Support stepper reticle 1:1 aligner mask layout generation, validation, and optimization. Run Design Rule Checks (DRC) and mask data validation. Tape-Out Flow Management Support tape-out operations across multiple flows, ensuring schedule adherence and high-quality deliverables.

Collaborate with global and Japanese-speaking stakeholders to drive alignment across design, process, and mask vendors. Provide operational support for tape-out activities; Fluent communication skills in both Japanese and English are required. Mask Data Preparation & Signoff Execute mask data generation workflows in accordance with foundry requirements. Perform mask data verification and signoff, ensuring format accuracy and rule compliance.

Conduct MEBES data checks to ensure mask write readiness. Mask Ordering & Logistics Manage tape-out (TO) submissions and mask ordering processes. Track purchase orders (POs) associated with mask fabrication. Coordinate with mask vendors on scheduling, delivery, and issue resolution. Quality & Compliance Perform thorough verification of mask data integrity, PCM structures, and alignment features. Ensure all deliverables comply with internal standards and external vendor specifications.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications ・Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field. ・Familiarity with reticle design and mask data preparation flows is desirable, along with a basic understanding of mask data formats (e.g., MEBES/JobDeck) and mask house interactions. ・Proficiency in layout and verification tools such as Cadence and Calibre, as well as experience working in a Unix/Linux environment, is required; LEDIT experience is a plus. ・A quick learner with strong adaptability, excellent communication skills, and a self-motivated, proactive mindset. ・Japanese language proficiency required.

Good communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal English-speaking teams and stakeholders Preferred Skills ・Experience in foundry tape-out processes ・Experience working in cross-functional, global engineering environments. ・Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy. ・Ability to manage multiple priorities in parallel. ・Effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration. ・Proactive problem-solving and execution mindset.