Breaking in to ASIC verification can feel impossible if you’re just starting out, but with the right approach is completely achievable. And today I’m gonna show you how. Every week I see a talented engineers struggle to land their first ASIC role. The problem isn’t skill, it’s strategy. Knowing where to focus your effort makes all the difference.
Step one, master the basics. RTL, SystemVerilog, UVM are essential, even basic hands-on experience sets you apart from candidates with theory only.
Step two, understand protocols. PCIe, NVMe, SATA, SAS familiarity makes you instantly more employable.
Step three side projects or labs, simulating small blocks, writing test benches, or contributing to open source verification flows, builds practical experience.
Step four, network. Strategically reach out to recruiters, engineers, hiring managers. Often your first role comes from connections rather than applications alone.
Step five, tailor your CV and interview prep, highlight projects, practical experience and problem solving, not just courses and grades and certifications.
Breaking in requires a mix of practical skills, protocol knowledge, and strategic networking. Focus on these areas and your first ASIC verification role becomes much more attainable.
If you want a step by step roadmap to your first role, reach out. I’ve helped dozens of engineers to get their first ASIC positions in the UK, Europe, and across the US.
