Tape-out and Mask Preparation R&D Engineer 

As a Tape-out and Mask Preparation R&D Engineer, you will play a critical role in the final phase of the IC design process - transforming layout databases into manufacturable data ready for fabrication. You will be part of the growing and multicultural tape-out team and collaborate closely with design, PDK, process integration, and foundry interface teams to ensure a smooth and reliable handoff of design data for prototype and technology development runs. 
Your work will directly contribute to imec’s mission in enabling advanced research programs, technology transfers and volume production

What you will do

• Prepare and validate design databases (GDSII/OASIS) for tape-out, ensuring compliance with foundry and mask vendor requirements. 
• Execute and verify DRC/LVS checks, metal density analyses, and layer mapping. 
• Generate and validate mask data sets, coordinate with mask shops, and manage data releases. 
• Support design teams with layout finishing and integration of foundry-specific rule decks. 
• Coordinate tape-out schedules, manage documentation, and track submission progress. 
• Develop and maintain automation scripts and verification flows (Python, SKILL, TCL) to improve efficiency and consistency. 
• Work closely with PDK, OPC and Design Platform teams to ensure data integrity and manufacturability. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design handoff and version control methodologies. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• MSc in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, Applied Physics, or a related field. 
• 3+ years of relevant experience in IC layout, tape-out preparation, or mask data management. 
• Strong knowledge of EDA tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, Mentor Calibre, KLayout or Synopsys. 
• Knowledge in lithography, understanding of EUV and related processing is a strong asset. 
• Proficiency in GDSII/OASIS formats and foundry submission flows. 
• Scripting experience (Python, SKILL) for process automation. 
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical mindset, and ability to work in a dynamic, cross-functional environment. 
• Strong communication and documentation skills in English. 
• This position is in Leuven, Belgium. You either live in Belgium or are willing to relocate.  

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.