RTL Chip Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: RTL Chip Design Manager Company: indie Location: San Jose, CA Job Type: Full-time Category: Semiconductor/Hardware Operations Date Posted: 2025-09-15T18:32:43 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Remote Friendly (US-based telecommuting permitted)

🚀 Role Summary

• Manage the development lifecycle of digital Intellectual Property (IP) blocks specifically for video-centric applications, ensuring alignment with overall chip architecture and strategic goals.
• Oversee and guide a team of engineers, including Sr. Engineer Architects and Digital Design Engineers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation and technical excellence within RTL design.
• Implement and refine rigorous design verification methodologies and processes to guarantee the functionality, reliability, and performance of digital IPs and their integration into broader chip designs.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in RTL design methodologies, aiming to enhance integrated circuit quality and achieve optimal PPA (Performance, Power, Area) targets.
• Translate high-level technical specifications into efficient and robust RTL designs, adhering to industry best practices and internal design guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is described as an "RTL Chip Design Manager," with specific responsibilities including managing the development of digital IPs for video-centric applications. The minimum experience requirement of 24 months as an "RTL Design Manager" or related occupation, combined with the supervision of other engineers, indicates a mid-to-senior level management position within the hardware/semiconductor operations domain. The mention of "telecommute permitted from anywhere in the US" suggests a flexible remote work policy for this role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end development of digital IPs for cutting-edge video-centric applications, from conceptualization through to integration into the final chip design.
• Coordinate closely with chip architects and senior management to ensure seamless integration of digital IPs, maintaining architectural integrity and performance specifications.
• Supervise and mentor a team of specialized engineers, including Sr. Engineer Architects and Digital Design Engineers, guiding their technical contributions and professional development.
• Define and enforce adherence to industry-standard RTL design practices and internal company design guidelines for all IP development activities.
• Support and enhance the implementation of robust design verification strategies and processes to validate IP functionality, performance, and power consumption.
• Champion the adoption of advanced design methodologies and tools to elevate the quality and efficiency of RTL designs and overall integrated circuit development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including verification, physical design, and system engineering, to ensure successful IP integration and chip-level validation.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and resource allocation for RTL design projects, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality IPs that meet PPA targets.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice dissemination within the RTL design team to foster a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct technical oversight in RTL design and management duties, including team supervision and process improvement. The focus on "video-centric applications" and "PPA targets" is critical for candidates to highlight in their experience.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 24 months of experience in an RTL Design Manager role, or a directly related occupation such as Lead RTL Engineer or Senior Digital Design Engineer with significant management or team lead responsibilities.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in managing the development of digital Intellectual Property (IP) blocks tailored for video-centric applications.
• Demonstrated ability to translate high-level technical specifications into efficient and optimized RTL designs using Verilog or VHDL.
• Hands-on experience with RTL design processes, including synthesis, timing analysis, and logic optimization.
• Familiarity with Smart Connectivity technologies and their integration within chip designs.
• In-depth knowledge of video processing algorithms and their implementation at the RTL level.
• Proficiency with industry-standard Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools for RTL design, simulation, and verification.
• Strong understanding of modern design methodologies and best practices in digital chip design.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced chip design flows and methodologies, including low-power design techniques.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Perl, TCL) for automation of design tasks.
• Experience in managing and mentoring engineering teams, fostering collaboration and technical growth.
• Knowledge of formal verification techniques and their application in RTL design.
• Exposure to ASIC/FPGA design and verification environments.
• Understanding of system-level architecture and its impact on RTL design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements specify a solid foundation in RTL design principles, coupled with practical experience in managing IP development for video applications. The "24 months" requirement is precise, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate this experience clearly.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio of successfully designed and implemented digital IPs, with a strong emphasis on video-centric applications.
• Include detailed case studies demonstrating the translation of complex specifications into efficient RTL designs, highlighting problem-solving approaches and design choices.
• Provide evidence of expertise in using industry-standard EDA tools for RTL coding, simulation, and synthesis, with examples of complex design modules.
• Present metrics and analysis demonstrating the achievement of PPA (Performance, Power, Area) targets for previously managed IP designs.
• Demonstrate experience in managing the RTL design process, including workflow planning, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for RTL design, synthesis, and verification, illustrating adherence to best practices and quality standards.
• Examples of design verification plans and methodologies used to ensure IP functionality and robustness.
• Records of process improvements implemented in RTL design flows to enhance efficiency, quality, or PPA.
• Case studies detailing the management of design challenges, including debugging, timing closure, and integration issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, showcasing not just technical ability but also management and process optimization skills in RTL design. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific projects and the methodologies they employed.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The specified annual salary is $156,853 USD.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company matching.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or stock options.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary of $156,853 USD aligns with industry benchmarks for experienced RTL Design Managers in high-cost-of-living areas like San Jose, CA. The benefits package is typical for a tech company of this nature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Semiconductor / Advanced Technology (specifically focusing on semiconductors, photonics, and radar sensors for automotive, industrial, and adjacent markets). Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the presence of specific engineering roles and a management structure suggests a growing, potentially mid-sized tech company. Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company description implies a focus on "redefining the future of mobility" and "next-generation technology," suggesting it is likely a relatively modern or innovative company.

Team Structure:

• The role will supervise one Sr. Engineer Architect and one Digital Design Engineer, indicating a small but specialized team focused on RTL chip design.
• The manager reports to senior management, likely collaborating with chip architects and other engineering leads.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with verification, physical design, and system engineering teams to ensure successful chip development.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making in design processes, with a focus on achieving PPA targets.
• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, encouraging innovation and creativity.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in design methodologies and workflow efficiency.
• Adherence to industry best practices in RTL design and verification.

Company Website: https://www.indie.inc/careers/job-opportunities/?gh_jid=4872336007

📝 Enhancement Note: As "indie" is a company name without explicit industry details, the description is inferred from the job title and the provided text mentioning "semiconductors, photonics, and radar sensors for automotive, industrial, and adjacent markets." This suggests a focus on advanced hardware solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a mid-to-senior level management role within hardware/semiconductor operations, specifically focused on RTL Chip Design. It requires a blend of technical expertise and leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The RTL Chip Design Manager will report to senior management and/or chip architects, and will directly supervise a small team of engineers. This structure allows for significant influence on design direction and team development.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the core product development, influencing the performance, efficiency, and functionality of the company's semiconductor products. Successful management of RTL design directly contributes to the company's ability to deliver advanced sensing technologies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Leadership: Opportunity to deepen expertise in advanced video-centric IP design and complex semiconductor architectures.
• Management Progression: Potential to move into higher-level management roles, overseeing larger design teams or broader engineering functions.
• Strategic Contribution: Influence the technical roadmap and strategic direction of the company's chip design initiatives.
• Industry Exposure: Gain experience with cutting-edge technologies in the automotive and industrial sectors, enhancing marketability and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within hardware design management, with opportunities to influence technical strategy and lead increasingly complex projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in San Jose, CA, and while the office environment is not detailed, it is implied to be a professional, technology-focused setting.

Office Location(s): San Jose, CA. Telecommuting is permitted from anywhere within the US.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment where engineers work together to solve complex technical challenges in RTL chip design.
• Access to industry-standard EDA tools and advanced computing resources.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with chip architects, senior management, and cross-functional teams.
• A dynamic, fast-paced setting focused on innovation and pushing technological boundaries.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, with flexibility afforded by the remote work option.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of a physical office presence in a key tech hub (San Jose) with the flexibility of US-based remote work offers a balanced work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the resume and application to assess qualifications against the minimum requirements, with a focus on RTL design management experience and specific technical skills.
• Technical Interview(s): Deep dives into RTL design concepts, verification methodologies, experience with video-centric applications, and EDA tools. Expect discussions on past projects and problem-solving approaches.
• Management/Team Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management experience, communication skills, and cultural fit within the company's collaborative environment.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present and discuss their portfolio, showcasing specific RTL design projects, PPA achievements, and process improvements.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Management & Technical Balance: Clearly demonstrate both your technical contributions to RTL design and your success in managing design projects and teams.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to showcase PPA improvements, design efficiency gains, and project delivery timelines.
• Focus on Video-Centric IPs: Emphasize projects directly related to video processing, image sensors, or related applications.
• Structure Case Studies: For each project, outline the problem, your design approach, the tools used, the challenges faced, and the quantifiable results.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate detailed questions about Verilog/VHDL, synthesis, timing, and verification strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing a specific RTL design challenge, such as optimizing power consumption for a video processing block or resolving complex timing issues.
• Prepare to articulate your leadership philosophy and how you motivate and guide engineering teams.
• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you may need to present your work to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, testing both deep technical knowledge in RTL design and effective management and leadership skills. A well-prepared portfolio is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• RTL Design Languages: Verilog, VHDL.
• Synthesis Tools: Synopsys Design Compiler, Cadence Genus, or similar.
• Simulation Tools: Cadence Xcelium, Synopsys VCS, Mentor Graphics QuestaSim, or similar.
• Static Timing Analysis (STA) Tools: Synopsys PrimeTime, Cadence Tempus, or similar.
• Logic Equivalence Checking (LEC) Tools: Synopsys Formality, Cadence Conformal, or similar.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for analyzing simulation results, timing reports, and power consumption data.
• Potentially custom scripts or tools for performance analysis and reporting on IP metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana) and version control systems (e.g., Git) are crucial for managing the design process and team collaboration.
• Scripting languages like Python, Perl, or Tcl are essential for automating design flows and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard EDA tools for RTL design, synthesis, simulation, and timing analysis is a core requirement. Familiarity with scripting for automation is highly beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to push technological boundaries and develop cutting-edge semiconductor solutions.
• Collaboration: Working effectively across teams to achieve common goals in chip development.
• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality design, rigorous verification, and optimal PPA targets.
• Efficiency: Focus on optimizing design processes and workflows for timely and effective delivery.
• Problem-Solving: An analytical and proactive approach to tackling complex technical challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional teamwork is key, integrating RTL design efforts with verification, physical design, and system-level teams.
• Open communication and knowledge sharing are encouraged to foster a learning environment.
• A results-oriented approach, with a focus on meeting project milestones and delivering high-performance IPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes innovation and technical excellence, with a collaborative approach to overcoming challenges in advanced semiconductor development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• PPA Optimization: Balancing performance, power, and area requirements for complex video-centric IPs in a competitive market.
• Design Complexity: Managing the intricate nature of modern RTL designs and ensuring their seamless integration into larger system-on-chip (SoC) architectures.
• Team Leadership: Effectively managing and motivating a team of skilled engineers, fostering high performance and continuous skill development.
• Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving semiconductor technologies and adapting design methodologies accordingly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced IP Design: Deepen expertise in specialized areas of digital IP development for high-speed and complex applications.
• Leadership Training: Develop management and leadership skills through formal training and on-the-job experience.
• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend and present at leading semiconductor and hardware design conferences.
• Mentorship: Potential to receive mentorship from senior leaders and chip architects within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle challenging technical problems while growing as a leader in the semiconductor industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• RTL Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to designing a high-performance video processing IP. How would you balance PPA requirements and ensure robustness?"
• Team Management: "How do you motivate and manage engineers with different skill sets and experience levels? Describe a time you had to resolve a conflict within your team."
• Process Improvement: "What methodologies do you employ to continuously improve RTL design flows and verification processes? Provide an example of a successful improvement you implemented."
• Technical Problem Solving: "Walk me through a complex RTL design challenge you faced and how you overcame it, including the tools and techniques you used."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about indie Semiconductor and our focus on automotive and industrial sensing technologies?"
• "How do you see your skills and experience contributing to our team's success?"
• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 key projects that best showcase your RTL design management experience, particularly those involving video-centric applications and demonstrating PPA improvements.
• Structure: For each project, clearly present:
  • The problem statement/specifications.
  • Your role and team structure.
  • The design approach and key technical decisions.
  • The tools and methodologies used.
  • Challenges encountered and solutions implemented.
  • Quantifiable results (PPA metrics, performance gains, timelines).
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their technical expertise in RTL design, their management philosophy, and specific examples of successful project execution and team leadership, backed by their portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the indie careers page.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in RTL chip design management, specifically mentioning video-centric applications, PPA optimization, team supervision, and proficiency with industry-standard EDA tools. Quantify your achievements wherever possible.
• Portfolio Preparation: Gather and organize documentation for 2-3 key RTL design projects that best demonstrate your capabilities. Focus on clarity, impact, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present these projects during the interview process.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with indie Semiconductor's products, mission, and the broader market for automotive and industrial sensing technologies. Understand their commitment to innovation and cutting-edge solutions.
• Technical & Behavioral Practice: Prepare for technical questions related to RTL design, verification, and PPA. Practice answering behavioral questions that assess your leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, drawing from your past experiences.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.