Staff/Senior QPU Layout Engineer
London, UK
Staff/Senior QPU Layout Engineer
About The Role and Team
As a Staff/Senior QPU Layout Engineer, you will drive the physical implementation and verification for a cutting-edge quantum processor platform. You’ll be a go-to expert for full-chip and block-level layouts, ensuring designs are reliable, manufacturable, and ready for tapeout.
You will be hands-on with layout while also contributing to the transition from research prototypes to production using industry-standard semiconductor tools and processes.You should enjoy solving problems with solutions flexible to changing rules while maintaining engineering discipline.
The role involves collaborating closely with experimentalists, device modellers, and designers, bridging research and industry-standard approaches.
It is not a conventional IC layout role: our process is bespoke and evolving, requiring flexibility and strong problem-solving. However, it’s grounded in industrial tools and practices and thus best suited to those with a strong industry foundation.
Our Team
We bring together the brightest quantum engineers, integrated circuit (IC) engineers, quantum computing theoreticians and software engineers to create a unique, world-leading team, working together closely to maximise our combined expertise. Our collaborative and interdisciplinary culture is an ideal fit for anyone who thrives in a cutting-edge research and development environment focused on tackling big challenges and contributing to the development of scalable quantum computers based on silicon technology.
Our team of 100+ is based across London, Oxford, San Sebastián and Sydney, with our primary hub in Islington (London).
Functions of the Role
Implement block-level and chip-level physical layouts for spin qubits in SiMOS quantum dots from concept through integration and tapeout using standard EDA tools.
Drive layout work to completion using industry best practices to ensure manufacturability and scalability.
Deliver layouts that meet agreed physical verification and sign-off criteria, and own tapeout readiness.
Interpret EM analysis, adjusting layouts to meet reliability and integration goals.
Create or adapt minimal schematics or netlists to support LVS and verification flows.
Contribute to the definition and maintenance of PDKs, layout methodologies, conventions, and abstractions.
Lead design reviews, tapeout planning, and technical documentation.
Coach or manage layout engineers as the team grows.
Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, translating research intent into manufacturable layouts.
Experience - Essentials
Masters in Engineering, Physics, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
6+ years leading chip layouts through tapeout in research-driven or novel technology environments.
Strong proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso for full-chip and block-level layout and verification flows.
Strong understanding of layout verification (DRC/LVS/ERC) using Calibre or equivalent.
Experience interpreting EM simulation results to optimise layout for signal integrity and reliability.
Proven ability to execute layouts evolving process nodes where formal design rules are incomplete and engineering judgment drives signoff decisions.
Track record of effective cross-functional collaboration across disciplines and domains.
Experience - Desirable
Experience with quantum devices, CMOS process integration, and/or 3D integration.
Experience developing PDKs, rule decks, or working closely with EDA teams.
Scripting or automation experience (SKILL, Python, or similar).
Experience managing a small team of layout engineers.
Benefits
Be part of a creative, world-leading team
Competitive salary and share options scheme
Contributory pension scheme
Group private medical insurance scheme
Life Assurance
EEO Statement
Quantum Motion is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate based on age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, colour, religion, disability status, marital status, pregnancy, gender reassignment or any other protected characteristics covered by the Equality Act 2010.