Principal Engineer - Verification Services, Design Enablement Gateway

As a Principal Engineer - Verification Services at Natcast, you'll architect comprehensive pre-silicon verification strategies, develop and optimize RTL and hybrid models, create HW/SW co-verification environments, and lead power and performance verification initiatives. Your role will also include establishing best practices for verification methodologies and mentoring verification teams, making a significant impact on America’s semiconductor development capabilities.

To qualify for this role at Natcast, you need an MS in Electrical Engineering or a related field along with over 15 years of hands-on verification experience. A deep understanding of RTL design, HW/SW co-verification techniques, and advanced verification methodologies such as UVM is essential. Strong scripting skills and a proven track record in developing verification frameworks are also crucial.

Essential skills for the Principal Engineer - Verification Services at Natcast include a deep expertise in RTL design, strong knowledge of verification tools like Synopsys and Cadence, excellence in debugging complex verification challenges, and exceptional documentation capabilities. Familiarity with formal verification methods, emulation platforms, and machine learning applications in verification are additional advantages.

At Natcast, the work culture is dynamic and inclusive. We celebrate diversity and strive to create an environment where all employees feel valued. Collaboration and mentorship are key components of our approach, and as a Principal Engineer - Verification Services, you'll not only lead projects but also help nurture the next generation of semiconductor professionals.

To apply for the Principal Engineer - Verification Services position at Natcast, connect with our talent acquisition team through our official channels. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, and if you need any accommodations during the application process, please let us know. We're committed to managing personal data in line with privacy regulations.

When developing pre-silicon verification strategies, I first analyze the design requirements and identify key performance indicators. I prioritize creating a comprehensive verification plan that outlines methodology, specific test scenarios, and resource allocation. Implementing rigorous regression testing and continually refining the strategies based on feedback ensures thorough validation.

In my previous roles, I've led multiple projects involving HW/SW co-verification. This included developing and implementing co-simulation environments that allow for effective interaction between hardware and software components. I ensure that both aspects are validated thoroughly by creating detailed test scenarios that mimic real-world conditions.

To optimize RTL verification processes, I focus on automation through scripting and reusable verification components. Using advanced verification methodologies like UVM helps streamline the process, while performance analysis helps in identifying bottlenecks, allowing for timely adjustments and enhancements.

One complex verification challenge I encountered involved validating power management features in a multi-core system. I adopted a systematic approach, creating specialized test scenarios that simulated different power states. Collaborating closely with design teams facilitated a deeper understanding of the requirements, ultimately leading to a successful resolution of the issues.

I have extensive experience using both Synopsys and Cadence tools for various verification tasks. For instance, I've utilized Synopsys VCS for simulation and verification of complex designs, while Cadence Incisive has been instrumental in assertions-based verification and system-level validation. My familiarity with these tools enables me to leverage their capabilities effectively.

I stay updated on industry trends by participating in webinars, attending industry conferences, and actively engaging in professional networks. Subscribing to relevant journals and following thought leaders on platforms like LinkedIn also helps me remain informed about the latest technologies and methodologies in semiconductor verification.

Formal verification plays a crucial role in the design process by providing mathematically rigorous guarantees that key properties of the design hold true. It helps identify design errors early in the process, thereby reducing the risk of costly revisions later on. I advocate for integrating formal verification early to complement traditional testing methodologies.

Prioritizing multiple verification projects involves assessing the urgency and importance of each project's deliverables. I utilize project management tools to track progress and deadlines, delegating tasks effectively based on team expertise. Regular communication with team members ensures alignment with project goals and allows for adjustments as necessary.

My mentoring approach for junior verification engineers centers on hands-on learning and constructive feedback. I encourage open dialogues where they can discuss challenges and share ideas. By involving them in key projects and facilitating knowledge-sharing sessions, I help them grow their skills while fostering a collaborative learning environment.

To ensure thorough regression testing, I implement a comprehensive test suite that covers various scenarios, including edge cases. Regularly maintaining and updating the test cases based on design changes is vital. I also leverage automation for regression testing to ensure consistency and efficiency, allowing for swift identification of any regressions.