RFID IC Reader/Tag Chip Designer (Full Stack)
IC Design
Ho Chi Minh City
Full-time
Join our silicon team to design next-generation RFID reader and tag ICs from architecture to tape-out. You will work across the full stack - analog front-end, digital baseband, protocol implementation, and firmware - to create highly integrated, low-power RFID chips for global markets.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop RFID reader IC architectures including RF front-end (LNA, mixer, PA), ADC/DAC, and digital baseband processing blocks
- Design ultra-low-power passive UHF RFID tag ICs with integrated rectifier, voltage regulator, demodulator, and digital logic
- Implement EPC Gen2v2/RAIN RFID protocol in RTL (Verilog/VHDL) for both reader and tag applications
- Perform circuit simulation (SPICE), timing analysis, and power optimization for analog and mixed-signal blocks
- Collaborate with the layout team on floorplanning, placement, and ensuring DRC/LVS clean designs
- Develop firmware and low-level drivers for RFID reader ICs, including DSP algorithms for tag detection and decoding
- Conduct silicon validation, bench testing, and debugging of prototype chips
- Work with antenna engineers to optimize IC-antenna co-design for maximum read range and sensitivity
- Evaluate and characterize IC performance across PVT corners and ensure compliance with global RFID regulations (FCC, ETSI, etc.)
- Contribute to IP development and patent filings for novel RFID IC innovations
Requirements
- Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in RFIC design, mixed-signal IC design, or RFID chip development
- Strong background in analog circuit design: LNA, mixer, oscillator, PLL, power management
- Proficiency in digital design using Verilog or VHDL, with experience in synthesis and timing closure
- Hands-on experience with IC design tools: Cadence Virtuoso, Spectre, Innovus, or equivalent
- Understanding of UHF RFID protocols (EPC Gen2) and RF system-level design principles
- Experience with silicon bring-up, lab testing (spectrum analyzer, oscilloscope, vector signal analyzer), and debugging
- Knowledge of low-power design techniques for passive RFID tags is highly preferred
- Familiarity with CMOS process technologies (65nm, 40nm, or advanced nodes)
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment
- Good communication skills in English; publications or patents in RFID/RF IC are a plus