Power Integrations Technology/Software

Device Modeling Engineer

San Jose, CA In person Full-time

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

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

  • Deep understanding of:

o Semiconductor device physics (Si and GaN strongly preferred)

o Device operation, parasitics, and switching behavior

  • Strong experience with:
  • o Model extraction and development
  • o High-voltage device characterization and test systems
  • o CADENCE or equivalent simulation tools (Spectre/SPICE)
  • Familiarity with:
  • o Compact modeling methodologies
  • o Electro-thermal modeling
  • o Behavioral modeling for system simulation

Job description provided by Power Integrations.
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