CAD Tools Specialist

Ciena•Ottawa, ON

About The Position

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact. 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.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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.