Job Overview:
The SerDes Micro Architect at Apple’s Analog Mixed-Signal (AMS) Team will define the micro architecture of analog mixed-signal IPs with a focus on SERDES design, reviewing firmware code, analog and digital circuits to ensure performance requirements are met. You will collaborate with silicon evaluation and design verification teams to define expected behavior, lead debug efforts during system bring-up and factory test, and work with signal integrity engineers to determine system requirements. The role requires a BS degree in a technical discipline with at least 3 years of relevant experience, with preferred qualifications including expertise in high-speed SERDES architecture, adaptation algorithms, DSP concepts, and mixed-signal modeling tools like Python or MATLAB.
>> View full job details on Apple’s official website.
Resume and Interview Tips:
When tailoring your resume for the SerDes Micro Architect role at Apple, emphasize your hands-on experience in SERDES architecture, particularly in defining high-speed receiver, transmitter, and clocking blocks. Highlight projects where you applied adaptation and optimization algorithms or worked on system design tradeoffs. Showcase your proficiency in DSP concepts, equalizers, and timing recovery, as well as any experience with mixed-signal modeling in Python, MATLAB, or C/C++. If you have familiarity with simulation tools for analog or digital circuits, make sure to include that. Additionally, mention any firmware or embedded software development experience, as it could give you an edge. Quantify your achievements, such as performance improvements or power savings in previous designs, to stand out.
During the interview, expect technical questions focused on SERDES architecture, adaptation algorithms, and system performance tradeoffs. Be prepared to discuss your experience with mixed-signal modeling and simulation tools, as well as your understanding of DSP concepts. The interviewer may ask you to walk through a past project where you solved a complex problem in SERDES design. Practice explaining your thought process clearly and concisely. Since the role involves collaboration with multiple teams, highlight your ability to work cross-functionally, especially in debugging and system bring-up scenarios. Familiarize yourself with Apple’s hardware ecosystem, as knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch architectures could be beneficial. Lastly, review basic Machine Learning concepts, as familiarity with them is a plus.