RF IC Design Intern
MACOM · Lowell, MA, US
About the role
RFIC Design Engineering Intern
Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated RFIC Design Engineering Intern to join our RF product development team. The intern will contribute to the design and development of a Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) in SOI or GaAs technology, working closely with experienced RFIC designers from initial architecture definition through schematic design, simulation, and physical layout preparation for tapeout. This position offers hands-on experience with industry-standard EDA tools, advanced RF circuit design techniques, and the complete integrated circuit development flow.
Updated
Key Responsibilities Design and analyze RF integrated circuits, with primary focus on Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) development. Participate in the complete RFIC design cycle from concept and specification definition through tapeout-ready layout. Perform circuit simulations including: S-parameter analysis Noise figure optimization Linearity analysis (IP3, P1dB) Stability verification Corner and Monte Carlo analysis Develop and optimize matching networks for performance targets including gain, noise figure, power consumption, and linearity.
Create and review RFIC layouts following process design rules and RF layout best practices. Perform electromagnetic (EM) modeling and simulation of passive structures, including inductors, transmission lines, transformers, baluns, and matching networks using tools such as Keysight Momentum, FEM-based solvers, and/or Ansys HFSS. Correlate EM simulation results with circuit simulations and incorporate EM-extracted models into the RFIC design flow.
Perform layout parasitic extraction and post-layout verification. Document design methodology, simulation results, and recommendations. Present technical findings and design reviews to engineering team members.
Collaborate with RFIC, electromagnetic modeling, packaging, and validation engineers throughout the development process.
Preferred Qualifications Experience with Cadence Virtuoso and/or Keysight ADS. Familiarity with EM simulation tools such as Keysight Momentum, FEM simulators, or Ansys HFSS. Understanding of passive component modeling, transmission line theory, and electromagnetic effects in integrated circuits.
Exposure to RFIC design methodologies. Familiarity with CMOS or SOI or GaAs technologies. Knowledge of RF measurements and laboratory instrumentation such as VNAs, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis and automation.