Summary of "How to Get a Job in the VLSI Domain ? || My VLSI Career Story || Esakki Info"

Summary of "How to Get a Job in the VLSI Domain? || My VLSI Career Story || Esakki Info"

Main Ideas and Concepts

• Introduction to VLSI Domain:
  • VLSI stands for Very Large Scale Integration, which involves designing and verifying integrated circuits (chips) inside electronic devices.
  • The chip inside devices acts like a brain, performing all functions.
  • VLSI design is a complex, multi-step process involving specification, design, verification, fabrication, and testing.
• Roles in VLSI:
  • Design Engineers: Write the initial functional code (usually in Verilog/SystemVerilog) to design the chip’s behavior.
  • Verification Engineers (like the speaker): Test the design by applying multiple inputs and verifying outputs to ensure the chip works as intended.
  • The entire process from design to physical chip can take months or years and involves many departments.
• Speaker’s Personal Journey:
  • Interest in electronics started from childhood by fixing small gadgets.
  • Joined Electronics and Communication Engineering after 12th grade.
  • Initially struggled with VLSI subjects during college, memorized and passed without deep understanding.
  • Campus placements mostly offered IT jobs; only one VLSI company visited.
  • Cleared aptitude and digital electronics tests in interviews.
  • Joined a VLSI company that provided 3 weeks of training on Verilog, UVM, and Matlab.
  • Completed a project during training and got selected as a full-time employee.
  • Experienced challenges such as salary issues, layoffs during recession, and unemployment after resignation.
  • Used YouTube and online resources to self-study and improve skills during unemployment.
  • Currently working as a freelancer and preparing for a better job opportunity.
• Key Lessons and Advice:
  • Study Pathway:
    • Focus on aptitude and logical reasoning.
    • Master digital electronics fundamentals.
    • Learn Verilog/SystemVerilog, UVM (Universal Verification Methodology), and Matlab.
    • Use resources like the Verilog website "Veripay" for clear explanations.
    • Practice coding and verification concepts regularly.
    • Work on small projects (e.g., flip-flop design, verification) to build a portfolio.
  • Job Preparation:
    • Start early in college, even from the first year.
    • Develop strong English communication skills.
    • Use YouTube channels (including Tamil-language ones) for easier understanding.
    • Be active on LinkedIn and company career pages to find job openings.
    • Apply directly through company websites or contact HR via email.
  • Career Management:
    • Do not resign from a job without having another offer.
    • Focus on gaining skills rather than salary initially.
    • Understand that getting and retaining a job in VLSI is challenging.
    • Be prepared for tough times like layoffs and recessions.
    • Use periods of unemployment productively by learning and creating content.
    • Networking and continuous learning are critical.
• Industry Insights:
  • VLSI jobs are fewer compared to IT jobs but offer core engineering experience.
  • Initial salaries in VLSI core companies are generally lower than IT companies.
  • Demand for VLSI professionals is increasing, especially from northern India.
  • The field requires patience and perseverance.

Detailed Methodology / Instructions for Getting a Job in VLSI

1. Academic Preparation:
   • Focus on aptitude tests (logical reasoning, IQ).
   • Thoroughly study Digital Electronics.
   • Learn Verilog/SystemVerilog coding.
   • Understand UVM (Universal Verification Methodology).
   • Gain basic Matlab knowledge related to VLSI.
2. Self-Study Resources:
   • Use the Veripay website for Verilog/SystemVerilog concepts.
   • Watch YouTube tutorials, including Tamil-language channels for easier comprehension.
   • Follow channels like “Explore Electronic Plus” for project ideas and UVM explanations.
3. Skill Development:
   • Practice coding small projects (e.g., flip-flop design, memory verification).
   • Write both design and verification code.
   • Build a mini project portfolio to showcase during interviews.
4. Job Search Strategy:
   • Be active on LinkedIn; update your profile and mark yourself as “open to work.”
   • Search for VLSI companies in tech hubs like Chennai and Bangalore.
   • Visit company websites regularly and apply through their career pages.
   • Reach out to HR via email or phone listed on career pages.
   • Prepare well for interviews focusing on aptitude, digital electronics, and coding.
5. During Job Training and Work:
   • Take training seriously (often 3 weeks or more).
   • Complete assigned projects diligently.
   • Work hard during probation (usually 6 months) to secure permanent employment.
   • Keep learning advanced topics and improve your skills continuously.

Category

Educational

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