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Hello and welcome to VLSI Verify,

This article is for individuals who have recently graduated from college or are currently enrolled in programs related to electronics or electrical engineering. Prior to delving into further details, I recommend ensuring you have a fundamental understanding of VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration).

By the end of this article, you will gain insights into the anticipated job market growth in this field, different kinds of companies in the industry, gain a comprehensive understanding of the qualifications and attributes sought by companies when hiring candidates, and be equipped with valuable guidance on how to navigate the process of securing a job in the VLSI industry.

student with VLSI board

Job Market Growth in the VLSI Industry

As per the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the demand for semiconductors in India is projected to surge to $70-$80 billion by 2026, driven by the rising appetite for digital devices and electronic products. Several prominent global semiconductor companies are increasing their presence in India by establishing research and development centres. This strategic move is motivated by India’s rising status as a technology innovation hub and its wealth of skilled talent in electronics and semiconductor engineering. Additionally, the country’s expanding middle class and growing demand for electronic devices and semiconductor components have made India an enticing market for these companies. The Indian government’s pro-industry initiatives and incentives further bolster this trend, fostering partnerships and investments that are poised to drive innovation, job creation, and technological advancements within the semiconductor sector, solidifying India’s position in the global semiconductor industry.

Different kinds of companies in VLSI industries

  1. EDA companies: Develop the tools that help design-based companies.
    Examples: Synopsys, Cadence, Mentor Graphics, etc
  2. Chip design companies: These company designs chips for various applications.
    Examples: Qualcomm, Intel, NVIDIA, NXP, Mediatek, etc
  3. Foundry: Involves in IC manufacturing and fabrication.
    Examples: TSMC, Samsung, Global Foundary, etc

Qualifications for the VLSI industry

Strong educational Background

Most companies require candidates to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical or electronics engineering, or a related field. Some positions may require a specialised degree in VLSI or microelectronics. Students from tier 1 or tier 2 colleges have an additional edge when it comes to any VLSI-based companies.

Strong Academic Record

A strong academic performance with a high GPA in relevant coursework is often considered a positive indicator of a candidate’s ability to grasp complex technical concepts.

Subjects

Certainly, digital and analog electronics serve as foundational subjects that every aspiring VLSI professional should have a solid grasp of. In addition to these fundamentals, having a masters in VLSI or microelectronics enhances your qualifications significantly. Moreover, it’s essential to be well-versed in digital design and analog design principles, possess a thorough understanding of VLSI architecture, and be familiar with computer architecture, especially if the company’s focus involves computing processors or GPU development. These comprehensive skills contribute to your overall value and versatility in the VLSI industry.

Language and scripting skills

Proficiency in programming languages like C or Perl, Tcl, and Python may be required for certain roles, especially in tasks related to scripting and automation. Apart from this, if you like to go for a front-end role, then Verilog language adds value to your profile.

Communication skills

Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for collaboration within a team and for explaining complex technical concepts to colleagues and superiors.

Teamwork and collaboration

The ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams is highly valued in the VLSI industry, as projects often involve collaboration between design, verification, and manufacturing teams.

Internships or Projects

Relevant internships, research projects, or personal projects related to VLSI design can greatly enhance a fresher’s resume and demonstrate practical skills.

How can you secure a job in the VLSI industry

[India Specific]

  1. Bachelor’s or master’s in tier 1 or 2 colleges straightway provides placement assistance to enter into the VLSI field. Many product-based companies hire freshers from these colleges.
  2. If you are pursuing engineering from a tier 3 or 4 level college, you can go for a master’s from reputed colleges in India or abroad for better opportunities or get yourself trained in specific courses as per your interest in a particular domain. 
  3. In broader categories, VLSI jobs are available in digital, analog, and RF domains. Further, there are various job roles in specific domains at different stages.
  4. Join community groups on Linked In, Telegram, and Instagram channels to get yourself aware of recently posted job opportunities.
  5. Connect with VLSI industry experts and ask for a referral for a particular job role that matches your profile and interest. It is a good gesture to provide a job id or job role link to that profile so that it will be easy for them to refer you.

Conclusion

In Summary,

For freshers, excelling in academics, showcasing completed projects, and good communication skills are essential. Crafting a well-crafted resume is crucial, and don’t forget to add extracurricular activities and personal achievements to stand out.

Career in VLSI