Staff PLL Mixed Signal Design Engineer

Staff Engineer, PLL Mixed Signal Design in the RFA Engineering Group, you’ll play a critical role in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You will be deeply involved in various aspects of mixed-signal design, including working with data converters (ADC, DAC, TDC) and digitally controlled analog/RF circuits. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual who enjoys taking ownership of projects and making a significant impact within a smaller, dynamic team.

This role provides an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to developing cutting-edge O-RAN 5G digital radio solutions. If you are passionate about mixed-signal design and want to have a meaningful impact in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

This position is based in San Diego, CA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the design and mass production of highly integrated transceivers using deep sub-micron RF CMOS technology
• Design high-performance analog components such as PLLs, PFDs, charge pumps, loop filters, VCOs, MMD, dividers, LOs, XTALs, frequency multipliers, and more
• Assist with layout activities and perform post-layout LPE simulations and analysis
• Collaborate with System Engineers to define block-level specifications based on product requirements
• Conduct behavioral model simulations (using Matlab, Verilog) to evaluate system performance and refine block-level specifications
• Partner with System Engineers to develop algorithms and methods for mitigating circuit impairments through calibration, compensation, pre-distortion, and other techniques
• Work closely with Digital Designers for RTL implementation and validation of proposed methods and algorithms
• Collaborate with Test Engineers to define, develop, and implement a comprehensive test plan, including ATE solutions for production ramp-up.
• Participate in post-silicon bring-up, performance characterization, optimization, and debugging
• Perform testing and verify product performance using lab instruments
• Prepare and present clear, concise design-related documentation

Job Requirements:

• MSEE with 10+ years of experience in high-performance RF and mixed-signal IC design using advanced CMOS processes
• Experience designing mass-produced, highly integrated transceivers using deep sub-micron RF CMOS technology
• Strong understanding of RF transceiver architectures and their trade-offs
• Excellent knowledge of RF CMOS fundamentals, including transistor-level design and implementation of fractional-N PLLs, sigma-delta PLLs, VCOs, etc.
• Expertise in loop design optimization for parameters like phase noise/jitter, spurs, locking time, and area
• Deep understanding of CMOS device operation and construction
• Familiarity with IC layout, full IC design flow, and verification
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and intuitive skills with attention to detail and a commitment to quality
• Hands-on experience with evaluating silicon on the bench and making precise measurements using typical lab equipment
• Proficiency in using development tools such as Cadence Virtuoso suite, EMX, Calibre, PVS, Matlab, and PERC
• Ability to work efficiently in a team, with a strong sense of urgency to meet product timelines
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Desirable Skills:

• Experience working with multi-site teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain circuit and system design decisions in both internal and external documentation
• Direct experience with 4G/5G, WiFi and Bluetooth products is preferred