Device Modeling Engineer

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

Qualifications

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