Director of R&D Engineering
Synopsys
Sunnyvale, CA · Posted October 16, 2026
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Where Sunnyvale, CA ranks
Where Sunnyvale, CA placed in our monthly rankings, month by month. Each month stays online at its own address.
November 2026
- #1Best cities for consumer and retail pay after cost of living$194k · of 11
- #3Best cities for data and analytics pay after cost of living$213k · of 28
- #4Best cities for pay after cost of living in California$192k · of 32
- #4Best all-round cities for AI careers95 / 100 · of 100
- #4Best all-round cities for AI careers in the West Coast88 / 100 · of 39
- #5Best cities for pay after cost of living in the West Coast$192k · of 39
Rankings about engineering jobs
- Best cities for software and engineering jobs #1 San Francisco (3,412 openings)
- Best cities for engineering pay after cost of living #1 San Mateo ($216k)
- Most requested AI skills in engineering jobs #1 AI tools in daily work (6.1%)
- AI tools named most often in engineering jobs #1 Claude (1.7%)
- Employers with the most engineering jobs #1 Amazon (2,992 roles)
How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among natural sciences managers is little observed so far. Measured exposure for natural sciences managers: 6% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
Synopsys has filed one layoff notice in the last twelve months, covering 128 workers, most recently August 2026. These are public filings with state labor departments, and an open role can sit alongside them. See the filings
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About the job
We Are:
At Synopsys, we drive innovations that shape how we live and connect. Our technology powers the Era of Pervasive Intelligence, from self-driving cars to learning machines. Join us to transform the future through continuous technological innovation.
You Are:
You are a seasoned leader and architect with at least 15 years of experience in software development. Your expertise spans C/C++, data structures, algorithms, database systems, and EDA tool development. You have a strong track record of managing and mentoring engineering teams, guiding project delivery, and fostering a collaborative culture. You’re proactive, analytical, and passionate about driving innovation. Your leadership inspires others, and you excel at strategic decision-making, resolving complex technical challenges, and ensuring high-quality software solutions.
What You’ll Be Doing:
Analyze requirements and design robust software architecture.
Lead, mentor, and manage a team of developers and architects.
Create data models, flowcharts, and optimize applications.
Oversee software launches and ensure project success.
Coordinate with cross-functional engineering teams.
Troubleshoot and improve development processes.
The Impact You Will Have:
Drive innovation in memory development and EDA software.
Enhance performance and reliability of key Synopsys tools.
Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to your team.
Influence project direction and technology adoption.
Improve workflows and ensure secure, high-quality deliverables.
What You’ll Need:
Minimum 15 years of software development and leadership experience.
Excellent C/C++ programming and engineering skills.
Strong algorithm/data structure design expertise.
SQL/database proficiency; Linux platform experience.
Ability to manage, mentor, and motivate technical teams.
BS/MS in Computer Science or equivalent.
Experience with cloud platforms, such as AWS, Google Cloud or Azure is a plus
Experience with spice simulation & cell/logic characterization is a plus
Who You Are:
Visionary leader and team builder.
Self-driven, analytical, and collaborative.
Strong communicator and mentor.
Adaptable and proactive problem-solver.
The Team You’ll Be A Part Of:
A collaborative group focused on advancing EDA and memory development, working with cutting-edge technologies and supporting innovation across projects. Your leadership will guide the team’s growth and success.
Rewards and Benefits:
We offer comprehensive health, wellness, and financial benefits. Your recruiter will provide more details during the hiring process.