Apprentice (Technical-Engineer)

Alternate Job Titles

• VLSI Characterization Apprentice
• Standard Cell Library Development Apprentice
• CMOS Circuit Simulation Apprentice
• Digital Library Characterization Trainee
• Semiconductor Characterization Trainee

About Synopsys

Synopsys is the leader in engineering solutions from silicon to systems, enabling customers to rapidly innovate AI-powered products. We deliver industry-leading silicon design, IP, simulation and analysis solutions, and design services. We partner closely with our customers across a wide range of industries to maximize their R&D capability and productivity, powering innovation today that ignites the ingenuity of tomorrow.

The Role

You will learn how semiconductor design works by running real simulations on real circuits that will ship in real products. You will apply knowledge of CMOS fundamentals and digital logic to production-quality standard cell libraries. This is a structured learning experience working alongside experienced engineers in characterization and library development. You will build skills in transistor-level debugging, EDA tool fluency, automation scripting, and documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Run transistor-level simulations on digital standard cells using industry-standard circuit simulators to extract timing, power, and leakage data across PVT corners.
• Analyze CMOS circuit behavior at the transistor level, reviewing schematics, debugging simulation failures, and identifying issues in logic implementation or device models.
• Support characterization and validation of standard cell libraries by running automated flows, reviewing results, and flagging anomalies or quality issues.
• Document simulation results, technical findings, and circuit-level observations in clear, structured reports.
• Collaborate with library development engineers to improve characterization methodologies, refine automation scripts, and close gaps in coverage or accuracy.
• Learn and apply concepts from Liberty (.lib) format, Static Timing Analysis, and low-power design.
• Participate in technical reviews and team discussions.

Key Program Facts

• Program Length: 12 months Apprenticeship Program
• Location: Bengaluru, India
• Working Model: 4-5 days in office
• Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time
• Start Date: November/December 2026

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Linux or Unix environments
• Basic scripting knowledge in Python, Perl, Tcl, or Shell is a plus
• Familiarity with at least one circuit simulator such as PrimeSim, FineSim
• Exposure to standard cell libraries, Liberty format, or Static Timing Analysis concepts is a plus

Qualifications

• B.E. or B.Tech in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, VLSI, Microelectronics, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of CMOS fundamentals including MOSFET operation, inverter characteristics, static and dynamic logic, noise margins, delay, power dissipation, and leakage mechanisms.
• Solid knowledge of digital logic design including combinational and sequential circuits, Boolean algebra, flip-flops, latches, and timing concepts like setup, hold, recovery, and removal.
• Ability to read and debug transistor-level schematics.
• Ability to spot simulation waveform anomalies and investigate the root cause.
• Comfort working through ambiguity and independently troubleshooting issues.
• Takes ownership of work and ensures correctness and clarity in documentation.
• Ability to communicate technical details clearly.
• Genuine curiosity about transistor-level operation and eagerness to learn advanced EDA tools, characterization flows, and semiconductor technologies.