Analog Mask Design Tech
Sometimes known as "mask designers" or "layout people", the Analog Mask Design Tech creates the physical layouts of the circuits that the Analog Design Engineer creates. The engineer creates circuits, which are merely concepts but the layout tech actually draws them while trying to meet various requirements such as ensuring adequate power supply routing, matching multiple wires, and meeting overall footprint constraints.
Being an "analog" layout designer generally means that you will be working at the discrete device level, drawing individual devices such as transistors, capacitors, and resistors. Often, analog designs will require that certain constraints are met, especially in high-speed or high-power circuits, and the layout person must implement the circuit while meeting these criteria. Thus, the analog layout person can be thought of as fitting many pieces of a puzzle together where the pieces have an optimal way of being assembled.
Because of the skills and experience required to complete a complex analog layout, skilled layout techs are often in-demand and can command very high hourly wages. The contract market for this job is quite active and it's not uncommon for experienced analog mask designers to make $80-$150/hour! As an actual employee at a company, the pay would typically be more in the $25-$45/hour range, but often with the ability to work overtime at 1.5 times the normal pay rate.
For someone who is interested in layout or enjoys the challenge of optimally fitting components together, there is a real opportunity to shine in this job function. It is a job where your attention to detail and ability to predict design requirements can really pay-off, both literally and in your enjoyment of the task!
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