CAD Tools Specialist

Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers an individual’s passions, growth, wellbeing and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How You Will Contribute:

Ciena R&D hardware organization is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced prime CAD Engineer. As a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Engineer, you will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools, flows, and methodologies used in semiconductor design. You will collaborate with layout and design teams to enhance efficiency, automation, and productivity in chip design workflows.

In this role you will:

• Develop, customize, and support EDA tool flows for IC design (logic synthesis, physical design, verification, etc.).
• Automate circuit/layout design methodologies to improve productivity and ensure consistency across projects.
• Work closely with chip design primes to understand their requirements and implement efficient CAD solutions.
• Debug and optimize circuit/layout design flows.
• Evaluate and integrate new EDA tools to stay ahead of industry advancements.
• Develop/implement scripts to introduce new functionality within CAD tools or to automate processes.
• Support and troubleshoot issues with foundry PDKs (Process Design Kits) and technology files.
• Work with process technology nodes (e.g., TSMC N5/N3, Intel 18A) to ensure CAD tools are compatible with advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Provide documentation and training to design teams on best practices for CAD tools and methodologies.

The Must Haves:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in managing and supporting CAD tools.
• Strong expertise in EDA tools from Synopsys, Cadence, Siemens, or similar vendors.
• Experience with scripting and automation using Python, Perl, batch, Cadence Skill or TCL.
• Knowledge and ability to harness AI tools for design, layout, etc.
• Knowledge of VLSI design, digital and analog IC design flows.
• Familiarity with physical design, DRC/LVS verification and place & route tools.
• Understanding of semiconductor process technologies and fabrication challenges.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills in CAD environments.
• Strong communication skills to interact with cross-functional teams.

The Assets:

• Familiarity with IT infrastructure
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Self-motivated, strong work ethic, and well organized
• Team player, works effectively with others in a multi-disciplinary team

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is $87,300 - $139,500.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.