How To Become a Physical Design Engineer: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a physical design engineer, including education, skills, salary and more.
A physical design engineer is responsible for the physical implementation of a design, from the initial planning stages through to the final product. This can include anything from the layout of a circuit board to the design of a new computer chip. Physical design engineers need to have a strong understanding of physics and engineering principles, as well as experience with CAD software. In this article, we discuss what a physical design engineer does, the average salary for this position and the steps you need to take to become one.
What Does a Physical Design Engineer Do?
A physical design engineer is responsible for the layout of integrated circuits (ICs). They use computer-aided design (CAD) tools to place and route IC components. Physical design engineers work with other engineers, such as process or manufacturing engineers, to ensure that the IC can be manufactured successfully.
The duties of a physical design engineer include:
- Creating schematics for integrated circuits
- Using CAD tools to place and route IC components
- Working with other engineers to ensure manufacturability of the IC
- Optimizing the layout of the IC for performance
- Generating reports on the progress of the project
- Presenting results to clients or upper management
Physical Design Engineer Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a physical design engineer is $108,150. However, salaries can vary based on experience, education, location and other factors.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job growth for physical design engineers will be slower than average over the next decade. This may be due to the increasing use of automation in engineering and manufacturing processes. As more companies adopt these technologies, there may be a need for fewer physical design engineers.
How to Become a Physical Design Engineer
Here are several steps you should take to become a physical design engineer.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science or a related field
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education required to work as a physical design engineer. Most employers prefer candidates with degrees in electrical engineering, but computer science and other related fields can also be suitable.
During your first two years of college, you will take general education courses such as English composition, math, physics and chemistry. In your last two years, you will focus on more specialized classes like analog circuit theory, digital logic circuits, microprocessor architecture, computer-aided drafting and electromagnetic field theory.
2. Gain experience with CAD software tools
While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education required to become a physical design engineer, many employers prefer candidates with experience using computer-aided design (CAD) software. CAD tools allow engineers to create and manipulate electronic circuit designs on a digital screen.
It’s common for new graduates to start their careers as electrical engineering technicians or computer-aided design (CAD) technicians. These roles provide an opportunity to develop skills with CAD software tools while working alongside experienced physical design engineers.
3. Understand the principles of semiconductor physics
Semiconductors are materials that have varying degrees of conductivity. They can be made into transistors, which are electronic devices that switch current flow in a circuit. Physical design engineers must understand the principles of semiconductor physics to create effective circuits and microchips. This includes understanding how electrons move through a material, how much energy is needed to move them and how they interact with other elements.
Understanding these concepts will help you choose the best materials for your designs and predict how they will behave when used in different applications. You may also need to calculate heat dissipation or power requirements based on the number of transistors you plan to use.
4. Develop strong problem-solving skills
Physical design engineers must be able to identify and solve problems as they work with complex technology. They need to have a strong understanding of the principles behind the technology they’re working with, along with an ability to apply those principles in real-world situations.
Problem-solving skills are also important because physical design engineers often work on projects that require quick turnaround times. It’s important for these professionals to be able to find solutions quickly so their designs can meet project deadlines.
5. Stay up to date on changes in technology
Technology is constantly changing, so it’s important for physical design engineers to stay up to date on the latest developments. Technology news and updates can help you understand how new products are being used in the market and what kinds of applications might be coming down the pipeline.
For example, if you’re working with a semiconductor company, staying informed about advances in microchip technology can help you better perform your job duties.
6. Join professional organizations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
The IEEE is a professional organization that provides networking opportunities and resources for electrical engineers. You can join the IEEE as an associate member when you earn your bachelor’s degree, then upgrade to a full membership after working in the field for one year. The IEEE offers many benefits, including access to online courses, career development tools and job postings.
7. Consider pursuing a master’s degree or doctorate
While a doctorate is not required to work as a physical design engineer, many employers prefer candidates who hold a master’s degree or higher. A master’s degree can help you gain additional skills and knowledge in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering or physics that can be useful in this role.
A doctorate program in electrical engineering or computer science can provide you with advanced training in these fields and prepare you for more senior roles within the field of physical design engineering.
