---
title: 'Physical Design Engineer at SK hynix memory solutions America Inc.'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/physical-design-engineer-sk-hynix-memory-solutions-america-inc-san-jose-9t1y7bq0b5xw'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-10-15'
---

# Physical Design Engineer at SK hynix memory solutions America Inc.

- **Company:** SK hynix memory solutions America Inc.
- **Location:** San Jose, CA
- **Posted:** 2026-10-07
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-10-15
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/skhynixmemorysolutionsamericainc/jobs/4421876009

## Job description

About the Company:

At SK hynix memory solutions, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing advanced memory solutions that power everything from smartphones to data centers. As a global leader in NAND flash technology and memory solutions, we drive the evolution of advancing mobile technology, empowering cloud computing, and pioneering future technologies. Our cutting-edge memory technologies are essential in today's most advanced electronic devices and IT infrastructure, enabling enhanced performance and user experiences across the digital landscape.

We're looking for innovative minds to join our mission of shaping the future of technology. At SK hynix memory solutions, you will be part of a team that's pioneering breakthrough memory solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. We're not just adapting to technological change – we're driving it, with significant investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and eco-friendly solutions and operational practices. As we continue to expand our market presence and push the boundaries of what's possible in semiconductor technology, we invite you to be part of our journey to creating the next generation of memory solutions that will define the future of computing.

## About the Role

Join our Physical Design (SoC Integration) team responsible for delivering high-performance SoC designs from RTL to GDS. As a Sr. Staff Physical Design Engineer, you will lead physical implementation efforts for advanced-node designs, driving critical blocks through synthesis, placement, CTS, routing, and signoff. You will work closely with front-end, DFT, power, and analog teams to optimize PPA (Power, Performance, Area) while ensuring silicon success. This role requires deep hands-on expertise across the full physical design flow as well as leadership to mentor junior engineers and define methodologies for the team.

## Responsibilities

- Lead physical design implementation from synthesis through GDS for high-performance blocks or full-chip SoC designs in advanced process nodes (7nm, 5nm, 3nm)
- Execute and optimize synthesis, placement, clock tree synthesis (CTS), and routing using industry-standard P&R tools (Synopsys ICC2/Fusion Compiler or Cadence Innovus)
- Drive timing closure and signoff using PrimeTime (PT), including advanced analysis such as SI, AOCV/POCV, crosstalk, and ECO implementation
- Perform RC extraction using StarRC or Quantus and ensure strong correlation between extraction and STA results
- Own physical verification signoff with Mentor/Siemens Calibre, resolving DRC, LVS, ERC, and antenna violations in complex FinFET layouts
- Conduct power integrity analysis using Ansys RedHawk(Redhawk-SC), including static/dynamic IR drop and EM analysis; implement power grid and decap optimizations
- Develop and maintain physical design flows and automation scripts (Tcl, Perl, Python), mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve tapeout schedules

## Minimum Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred)
- 6+ years of hands-on experience in ASIC physical design with proven tapeout success
- Expert-level proficiency in synthesis, placement, CTS, and routing using Synopsys or Cadence P&R tools
- Deep knowledge of static timing analysis (STA) and PrimeTime signoff, including multi-corner/multi-mode closure
- Demonstrated experience with physical verification using Calibre (DRC, LVS, ERC) and IR drop/EM analysis using RedHawk

## Preferred Qualifications

- Experience at 5nm or 3nm process nodes with FinFET and multi-patterning design rules
- Familiarity with low-power design techniques including UPF, clock gating, multi-Vt, and voltage islands
- Strong programming skills in Tcl, Perl, and Python for flow automation and data analysis
- Knowledge of ECO implementation and clock reconstruction (CRPR, useful skew) methodologies
- Experience leading or mentoring a team of physical design engineers on complex SoC projects
- Exposure to memory-centric interfaces and systems such as SSD SoC, HBM, or HBF (High Bandwidth Flash) base die designs (a plus, not required)
- Familiarity with chiplet and die-to-die (D2D) interconnect technologies, including Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express (UCIe) or equivalent D2D PHY protocols (a plus, not required)

BASE COMPENSATION: $160,000/yr - $220,000/yr

## REGARDING COMPENSATION:

SK hynix memory solutions America Inc. offers you the opportunity to apply your skills to exciting projects while working with innovative teams. Our compensation package is complimented by a generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and a company 401(k) match, as well as cafeteria, onsite gym and much more. If you are motivated by technical challenges, we offer a collaborative work environment that encourages career growth.

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be tailored based on several factors, including the location, job grade, relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. We also take into account the internal equity among our current team members to ensure fairness and competitiveness.

## About SK hynix memory solutions America Inc.

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: SK hynix memory solutions America Inc. (SKHMS America) is the San Jose‑based R&D subsidiary of SK hynix, specializing in custom NAND‑based storage solutions, SSD controllers, and system‑on‑chip (SoC) designs for enterprise and client markets.
- **Entity Type**: Private (wholly owned subsidiary of SK hynix, a publicly traded company under ticker 000660:KR)
- **Headquarters**: San Jose, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2004 (originally as Link_A_Media Devices Corporation; acquired by SK hynix in 2012, renamed to SK hynix memory solutions America Inc. in 2018)
- **Founders**: Not publicly disclosed (original LAMD founders); key executive: Tony Yoon (CEO)

## Core Business
- **Primary industry**: Semiconductor manufacturing / NAND flash storage solutions
- **Target customers**: B2B – enterprise data centers, hyperscale cloud operators, mobile device manufacturers
- **Mission statement**: “To be a trusted partner by delivering top-quality storage products and exceptional customer service, consistently meeting schedules to ensure complete customer satisfaction.” [skhms.com](https://www.skhms.com/index.html)

## Products & Services
- **Enterprise SSDs** – PCIe Gen3/Gen4/Gen5 NVMe drives (e.g., PE6011, PS11xx, PS10xx, PS1101) and SATA SSDs (SE3010, SE4010) designed for data centers and AI infrastructure.
- **Custom SSD Controllers** – In‑house SoCs with dedicated HW accelerators, AI/ML‑based error correction, and low‑power architectures.
- **Firmware & System Software** – Low‑level firmware that orchestrates controller features and ensures enterprise‑grade reliability.
- **NAND Media Management** – Algorithms to analyze NAND characteristics and optimize SSD performance and endurance.
- **Systems Engineering & Validation** – Replication of customer environments at scale; in‑house test tools for reliability qualification.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation / Market Cap**: Not disclosed (subsidiary of SK hynix, which had a market cap of ~$90B as of mid‑2025)
- **Key Metric**: Annual revenue ~$21M (estimated from LinkedIn data); total funding not applicable (captive R&D arm)
- **Notable Investors / Partners**: Parent company SK hynix; Intel NAND business acquisition (2020) led to the formation of Solidigm alongside SKHMS.
- **Growth Signals**: 191 employees (+19.9% YoY); 20 active job postings (+1900% YoY in postings); milestone launch of 245TB PS1101 SSD using world‑first 321‑layer QLC NAND in 2025, targeting AI data centers.

## Competitive Advantages
- **Full Vertical Integration** – In‑house NAND, DRAM, controller SoC, firmware, and high‑volume manufacturing – a rare combination in the industry.
- **Advanced Error Correction** – AI/ML‑based algorithms for robust data reliability.
- **Proven Track Record** – First in industry with LDPC error correction; multiple generations of enterprise PCIe/SATA controllers.
- **Parent Backing** – Access to SK hynix’s massive R&D budget and global manufacturing fabs.

## Strategic Focus
- **AI Infrastructure** – Ultra‑high‑capacity (245TB) SSDs optimized for AI/cloud workloads.
- **PCIe Gen5 Transition** – Continuing to innovate with Gen5 E3.S/U.2/U.3 form factors, improving performance and efficiency.
- **Eco‑Friendly Solutions** – Investment in sustainable operational practices and low‑power chip designs.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Impact** – Engineers work on cutting‑edge storage technology that powers global data centers and AI systems; collaborative, cross‑functional teams.
- **Location & Perks** – San Jose campus with on‑site cafeteria, fitness center reimbursement, comprehensive medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) match, life insurance.
- **Growth Opportunities** – Roles in firmware, SoC design, systems engineering, and validation; internships available; 20 open positions as of mid‑2025.
- **Remote / Hybrid** – Not explicitly stated; roles appear to be on‑site (San Jose).

## Sources
1. [skhms.com – Company Overview, Mission, Products, Milestones](https://www.skhms.com/index.html)
2. [linkedin.com – Company Page, Financials, Employee Data, Growth](https://www.linkedin.com/company/sk-hynix-memory-solutions-inc-)
3. [job-boards.greenhouse.io – Active Job Postings (24 roles as of July 2025)](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/skhynixmemorysolutionsamericainc)
4. [greenhouse.io – Jobs detail (confirming open positions)](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/skhynixmemorysolutionsamericainc/jobs/4130211009)

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