Lead Software Engineer
Jun 16, 2026 San Jose
About us
Cadence is a pivotal leader in computational software.
- Size: 10,000+ employees
- Industry: Technology
At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.
About the Role
Cadence Design Systems is looking for a highly motivated Lead Software Engineer to join the Innovus R&D team. Innovus is Cadence's flagship digital implementation platform, enabling customers to design advanced semiconductor chips from RTL to GDSII.
In this role, you will contribute to the development of next-generation physical design technologies, including placement, routing, and optimization. You will work on high-performance, scalable systems that power advanced semiconductor design flows.
Key Responsibilities
Minimum Qualifications
The annual salary range for California is $101,500 to $188,500. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.
We're doing work that matters. Help us solve what others can't.
About the Role
Cadence Design Systems is looking for a highly motivated Lead Software Engineer to join the Innovus R&D team. Innovus is Cadence's flagship digital implementation platform, enabling customers to design advanced semiconductor chips from RTL to GDSII.
In this role, you will contribute to the development of next-generation physical design technologies, including placement, routing, and optimization. You will work on high-performance, scalable systems that power advanced semiconductor design flows.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and optimize algorithms for physical synthesis, placement, and routing engines
- Develop high-performance, scalable software using C/C++ on Linux/UNIX platforms
- Contribute to the Innovus digital implementation flow, including timing, power, and optimization
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver high-quality solutions
- Analyze performance bottlenecks and improve runtime, scalability, and quality of results (PPA)
- Debug, troubleshoot, and enhance existing features within the Innovus platform
Minimum Qualifications
- MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving
- Proficiency in C/C++ and software development on UNIX/Linux systems
- Strong analytical and debugging skills
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
The annual salary range for California is $101,500 to $188,500. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.
We're doing work that matters. Help us solve what others can't.
Additional Information
- Salary: $101,500 – $188,500
- Posted: Jun 16, 2026