Description
The Device Modeling Engineer is responsible for the development, validation, and release of accurate device models and cells for silicon (Si) and wide-bandgap (WBG) power devices, supporting Power Integrations' product development and technology roadmap.
This role is critical in bridging device physics, characterization, and circuit-level simulation to enable first-time-right silicon, robust product definition, and predictive design across multiple power platforms.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in semiconductor device physics, hands-on characterization, and model extraction, with a strong ability to collaborate across device, IC design, product engineering, and applications teams.
Key Responsibilities
Device Modeling & Model Development
- Develop, maintain, and release device models and model libraries for Si and WBG (GaN) technologies across multiple voltage and power ranges
- Create compact models suitable for circuit simulation (SPICE-level) and system-level design
- Ensure models accurately capture static, dynamic, thermal, and transient behavior across operating conditions
- Support development of next-generation GaN and high-voltage technologies through predictive modeling
Characterization & Parameter Extraction
- Define and execute device characterization plans for model extraction
- Perform electrical and thermal measurements, including switching behavior, loss mechanisms, and parasitic effects
- Extract model parameters using measurement data and ensure correlation across:
o Process corners
o Temperature and voltage extremes
o System operating conditions
- Drive improvements in measurement methodologies and test setups
Simulation & Validation
- Perform device-level and circuit-level simulations to validate model accuracy
- Correlate simulation vs. measured data and identify discrepancies
- Work closely with IC design teams to ensure models are:
o Accurate for design
o Efficient for simulation
o Robust across use cases
- Support validation for new product introductions (NPI) and technology releases
Technology & Product Support
- Provide modeling support for new device architectures and process technologies
- Evaluate electrical and thermal characteristics of GaN and high-voltage power devices
- Support failure analysis, reliability studies, and qualification activities from a modeling perspective
- Contribute to design reviews and risk assessments for new products
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely with:
o Device engineering
o IC design and layout teams
o Product and test engineering
o Applications engineering
- Ensure models meet internal design needs and external customer requirements
- Support key customer engagements requiring model validation or customization
Model Infrastructure & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain and enhance modeling flows, libraries, and documentation
- Improve automation for parameter extraction, validation, and release processes
- Drive best practices for model quality, version control, and deployment
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (semiconductor devices preferred)
- Typical experience:
o Ph.D. + 3+ years, OR
o M.S. + 6+ years, OR
o B.S. + 8+ years
- Proven track record in device modeling for Si and/or WBG technologies
Technical Skills
o Semiconductor device physics (Si and GaN strongly preferred)
o Device operation, parasitics, and switching behavior
o Model extraction and development
o High-voltage device characterization and test systems
o CADENCE or equivalent simulation tools (Spectre/SPICE)
o Compact modeling methodologies
o Electro-thermal modeling
o Behavioral modeling for system simulation