Lead Software Engineer

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📍 SAN JOSEFull time💰 USD 115K–213K

About this role

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

This R&D engineer role is part of the timing optimization group of Cadence’s Innovus Place & Route product.   This key Innovus R&D group is responsible for optimizing timing (how fast a chip functions) and power (the power consumption of the chip), and the timing closure flow.  The Innovus product is a key product used by a variety of chip manufacturing companies such as mobile, automotive, CPU & GPU cores, & AI.  The work done in this high-performance team has a huge impact on the chip industry and products that are used in our daily lives.


We are looking for talented candidates with a strong background in electronic design automation (timing, power analysis, optimization), and excellent software engineering skills, experience with multithreaded and distributed optimization.  We are looking for individuals that can make the next breakthrough in the technology that we provide to the customers, making a big impact to the industry.

Minimum Qualifications:
Highly technical engineer with excellent problem solving skills
C/C++ software development experience in Linux environment
Strong understanding and extensive usage of data structures and algorithms
Great communication skills and a strong desire for working with customers
MS (Ph.D. track a plus) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science.

Preferred:
Knowledge of physical synthesis algorithms, timing analysis and multithreading is a strong plus.
Prior R&D experience working on IC physical designs tools
Hands on experience using the above physical design tools for design closure and knowledge of physical design flows a plus.
Experience with Tcl and other scripting languages

The annual salary range for California is $114,800 to $213,200. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Lead Software Engineer role at cadence?
The listed salary for this Lead Software Engineer position at cadence is USD 115K–213K. This is an Full time role.
Where is the Lead Software Engineer position at cadence located?
This Lead Software Engineer role at cadence is based in SAN JOSE. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Lead Software Engineer role at cadence full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Lead Software Engineer role at cadence.
How do I apply for the Lead Software Engineer position at cadence?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to cadence's official application portal hosted on workday where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Lead Software Engineer job at cadence posted?
This Lead Software Engineer position at cadence was posted on Aug 21, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Lead Software Engineer
cadence · 💰 USD 115K–213K
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You'll be redirected to cadence's official application page on Workday.