Principal Engineer, Circuit Designer(7360)

Overview of Role

Are you a visionary PhD student in Electrical Engineering, poised to graduate, with an insatiable curiosity for pushing the boundaries of memory technology? Do you dream of translating groundbreaking theoretical concepts into tangible, silicon-proven innovations that will power the future?

TSMC invites you to join our elite research team as a Principal Engineer, Circuit Design in San Jose, California. This isn't just a job; it's an unparalleled opportunity to leverage your deep expertise, drive innovation, and become a key architect in defining the future of computing by pioneering novel circuit techniques.

Responsibilities

• Drive research and development efforts to accurately evaluate and optimize the PPA of novel circuit-level innovations, and tape-out proof-of-concept chips.
• Thrive in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment, collaborating seamlessly with leading experts in device physics, circuit design, architecture, and system integration.
• Partner with top-tier universities and industry leaders, driving collaborative research that pushes the frontiers of memory technology.
• Translate your innovative research outcomes into valuable intellectual property, including patents and high-impact publications.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, with a dissertation focused on relevant circuit or memory research.
• A profound understanding of circuit design principles, complemented by hands-on, practical experience with a full tape-out flow (ideally demonstrated through your PhD work).

Preferred Qualifications

• A foundational grasp of emerging memory technologies, AI accelerators, or memory controller functionalities.
• Deep specialization in one or more critical areas of memory technology (SRAM, RRAM, MRAM, PCRAM), advanced memory macro design (sense amplifiers, write circuitry, LDOs, charge pumps, ADC/DACs), or cutting-edge accelerator architectures (in-memory computing, near-memory computing, systolic arrays).
• Demonstrated experience (3+ years, including those attained during Ph.D. studies) in circuit design and tape-out, leveraging either custom or digital design flows.
• A compelling track record of research excellence, evidenced by significant publications, patents, and successful research collaborations.
• Exceptional communication skills, enabling you to articulate complex ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with diverse, high-performing teams.

Company Description

As a trusted technology and capacity provider, TSMC is driven by the desire to be:

• The world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry
• The technology leader with a strong reputation for manufacturing excellence
• Advancing semiconductor manufacturing innovations to enable the future of technology

TSMC pioneered the pure-play foundry business model when it was founded in 1987 and has been the world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry ever since. The Company supports a thriving ecosystem of global customers and partners with the industry’s leading process technologies and a portfolio of design enablement solutions to unleash innovation for the global semiconductor industry. With global operations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America, TSMC serves as a committed corporate citizen around the world.

In North America, TSMC has a strong sales and service organization that works with customers by helping them achieve silicon success with cutting-edge technologies and manufacturing excellence. The Company has continued to accelerate its R&D investment and staffing in recent years and is expanding its manufacturing footprint to support customer innovation with 3D IC technologies and optimal manufacturing capacity.

For positions requiring access to technical data subject to export control regulations, including Export Administration Regulations, TSMC Technology, Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Government for certain individuals.  All employment is contingent upon TSMC Technology, Inc. obtaining any export license or other approval that may be required by the U.S. Government.

Diversity Statement

TSMC Technology, Inc. is committed to employing a diverse workforce and provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
TSMC is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us at G_Accommodations@tsmc.com. TSMC confirms to all applicants its commitment to meet TSMC’s obligations under applicable employment law. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

Pay Transparency / Benefits Statement

At TSMC, your base pay is only part of your overall total compensation package. At the time of this posting, this role typically pays a base salary between $125,000 and $180,000 per year. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Factors that influence pay include the individual's skills, qualifications, education, experience and the position level and location.  TSMC’s total compensation package consists of market competitive pay, allowances, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. We also offer extensive development opportunities and programs.