Entry-Level VLSI Design Engineer Jobs Surge in Major US Tech Hubs for 2025

Entry-level VLSI design engineer jobs are seeing a steady rise across major US technology hubs, signaling robust opportunities for recent engineering graduates eager to enter the semiconductor industry. According to new job listings on Indeed and ZipRecruiter, top cities such as Sunnyvale (home to Apple), Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago are actively recruiting for these roles, with high-profile employers like Apple and ByteDance leading the charge.

Why VLSI Engineering Is Booming in 2025 ?

The demand for Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) engineers in the US is surging, propelled by the global semiconductor shortage, increased domestic chip manufacturing, and the rapid integration of AI, 5G, and electric vehicles into everyday life. Industry leaders—including Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Apple, and Nvidia—are spearheading innovation, resulting in significant hiring for VLSI design, verification, and testing specialists. As reported by GTR Academy, the US remains a global hub for chip design and semiconductor advancement, making it a top destination for aspiring VLSI professionals.

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Entry-Level VLSI Job Market: Key Roles and Salary Insights

Job postings highlight a range of entry-level and fresher positions, including RTL Design Engineer, ASIC Verification Engineer, Physical Design Engineer, and DFT Engineer. Companies seek candidates skilled in digital design, SystemVerilog, Python, and C++. For example, Apple in Sunnyvale is offering positions such as Cellular SOC Design Verification Engineer with competitive salaries ranging from $126,800 to $190,900 annually, plus benefits like stock options, health insurance, and retirement plans. Other listings in Los Angeles and Houston offer starting salaries from $65,000 to $75,000, with additional perks such as 401(k) matching and paid time off .

Skills in Demand and How to Stand Out ?

Employers are particularly interested in candidates with hands-on experience in HDL programming (Verilog/VHDL), Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools like Cadence and Synopsys, and scripting languages such as Python and TCL. Exposure to UVM (Universal Verification Methodology) and project-based learning through internships or industry-aligned certifications can give applicants a significant edge (GTR Academy). Training programs and mentorships are highly recommended for those seeking to break into the field.