RF IC Design Intern
MACOM· Semiconductors· Oct 2, 2026 · 25d ago
Lowell, MA
In office
Internship
Intern
$20–$47/hr
Job description
MACOM (NASDAQ: MTSI) is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced semiconductor products across a diverse range of end markets, including Data Centers, Telecommunications, Industrial and Aerospace and Defense. We develop innovative, cutting-edge technologies and products across the spectrum of radio frequency (RF), microwave, millimeter wave, photonics and high-speed analog technologies. Our solutions support critical network infrastructure applications like artificial intelligence, high performance computing, satellite communications, radar, unmanned aerial vehicles, medical equipment, test and measurement and advanced wireless networks.
MACOM has more than 75 years of expertise in semiconductor process development, wafer fabrication, circuit design, advanced packaging, systems architecture and applications engineering. We are committed to our customers’ success. We partner with customers to help solve their most challenging problems by providing semiconductor solutions that are at the forefront of the highest power, highest frequency and/or highest data rates.
Leading technologies, innovative products and driven employees. Come be a part of MACOM and help advance the next generation of connectivity infrastructure!
RF/Microwave IC Amplifier Design Engineering Intern
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated RF/Microwave IC Design Engineering Intern to join our product development team. The successful candidate will contribute to the design and development of Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs) and Power Amplifiers (PAs) implemented in silicon and III-V semiconductor technologies. Working alongside experienced design engineers, the intern will participate in all phases of the IC development process, from architectural definition and circuit design to simulation, electromagnetic modeling, physical layout, and tapeout preparation.
This position offers hands-on experience with industry-standard EDA tools, advanced RF and microwave IC design methodologies, and the complete integrated circuit development flow in a fast-paced product development environment.
Key Responsibilities
• Design and analyze RF/microwave integrated circuits, with a primary focus on low-noise and power amplifier development.
• Participate in the complete IC design cycle, from concept and specification definition through tapeout-ready layout.
• Perform circuit simulations and analysis, including:
o S-parameter characterization
o Noise figure optimization
o Linearity analysis (IP3, P1dB)
o Output power and power-added efficiency (PAE) evaluation
o Large-signal and compression performance analysis
o Stability verification
o Thermal analysis and design optimization
o Process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) corner analysis
o Monte Carlo and statistical yield analysis
• Design and optimize impedance-matching networks to meet performance targets for gain, noise figure, efficiency, linearity, output power, and thermal robustness.
• Create and review IC layouts in compliance with process design rules and RF layout best practices.
• Perform electromagnetic (EM) modeling and simulation of passive structures, including inductors, transmission lines, transformers, baluns, and matching networks using tools such as Keysight Momentum, FEM-based solvers, and Ansys HFSS.
• Correlate EM simulation results with circuit-level simulations and incorporate EM-extracted models into the design flow.
• Perform parasitic extraction and post-layout verification to ensure first-pass design success.
• Support design validation, silicon correlation, and performance analysis, as applicable.
• Document design methodologies, simulation results, and technical recommendations.
• Present design reviews and technical findings to engineering team members.
• Collaborate closely with IC design, EM modeling, packaging, characterization, and product engineering teams throughout the development process.
Preferred Qualifications
• Pursuing an M.S., or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, RF/Microwave Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with RFIC/MMIC design tools such as Cadence Virtuoso and/or Keysight ADS.
• Familiarity with EM simulation tools including Keysight Momentum, FEM-based solvers, and Ansys HFSS.
• Understanding of passive component modeling, transmission line theory, impedance matching, and high-frequency electromagnetic effects in integrated circuits.
• Exposure to LNA, PA, or other RF front-end circuit design methodologies.
• Familiarity with semiconductor technologies such as CMOS, SOI, InGaP HBT, pHEMT, or GaN-on-Si.
• Knowledge of RF measurement techniques and laboratory equipment, including vector network analyzers (VNAs), spectrum analyzers, signal generators, load-pull systems, and power meters.
• Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages for data analysis, automation, and design workflow enhancement.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
What You'll Gain
• Practical experience designing state-of-the-art RF/microwave integrated circuits for commercial applications.
• Exposure to the complete RFIC/MMIC development flow, from concept through tapeout and validation.
• Mentorship from experienced RF, microwave, and IC design engineers.
• Hands-on experience with leading EDA and EM simulation tools used throughout the semiconductor industry.
• Opportunity to contribute to real product development programs and see designs progress toward manufacturing.
During the 12 weeks each Intern will:
• Be given an individual and well-defined project with set outcome goals
• Gain hands on experience
• Receive excellent training and ongoing supervision
• Be invited to attend an intern webinar series
• Attend networking/social events
• Attend and present at Poster Session about each Interns project successes and pitfalls
• Receive formal, written feedback
ITAR
Due to ITAR regulations, only candidates who are U.S. Persons (U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, or individuals granted asylum or refugee status) will be considered for this position.
The Hourly Range for this position is $20 – $47 per hour. Actual salary offered to candidate will depend on several factors, including but not limited to, work location, relevant candidates’ experience, education, and specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.
EEO:
MACOM is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. MACOM will not discriminate against any worker or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military service, marital status, or any other category protected under applicable law.
Reasonable Accommodation:
MACOM is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you have a disability and are in need of a reasonable accommodation with respect to any part of the application process please call +1-978-656-2500 or email HR_Ops@MACOM.com. Provide your name, phone number and the position title and location in which you are interested, and nature of accommodation needed, and we will get back to you. We also work with current employees who request or need reasonable accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of their jobs.
Application prep
Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.
Keywords to mirror
python
- Platform
- cornerstone
- Effort
- medium
Benefits
Benefits detected in the listing.
Vision