CPU Core Pre-Si Validation/Verification Engineer

Job Title

CPU Core Pre-Si Validation/Verification Engineer

Role Summary

Pre-silicon validation and verification engineer responsible for functional verification of CPU core logic, developing verification plans, testbenches and simulation environments, and collaborating with architects and RTL/physical design teams to ensure designs meet functional, performance, and power goals.

This role supports CPU microarchitecture verification activities including system simulations, root-cause debugging, and maintenance of verification infrastructure.

Experience Level

Entry-level. Typically requires about 1+ years of relevant pre-silicon verification or front-end experience; suitable for candidates with recent Bachelor's or Master's degrees plus internship or industry experience.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include verification planning, execution, and debugging of CPU pre-silicon designs.

• Perform functional verification of CPU logic to ensure designs meet specifications.
• Develop IP verification plans, testbenches, and verification environments to achieve coverage goals.
• Execute verification plans and run system simulations to verify design behavior, analyze power and timing, and detect bugs.
• Replicate, root-cause, and debug presilicon issues; implement corrective actions for failing tests.
• Collaborate with CPU architects, RTL developers, and physical design teams to verify complex architectural and microarchitectural features.
• Document test plans and drive technical reviews with design and architecture teams.
• Maintain and improve functional verification infrastructure and methodology.
• Participate in the definition and validation of CPU architecture and microarchitecture features.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and preferred skills are listed below. Requirements may be met via work experience, internships, or coursework.

• Must-have: 1+ years of experience in pre-silicon verification and/or front-end verification (industry experience, internships, or relevant coursework acceptable).
• Must-have: Proficiency with software/programming languages such as C, C++, Python, Perl, Java, or similar.
• Must-have: Experience with HDLs and simulators: SystemVerilog/Verilog/VHDL and VCS or similar simulators.
• Must-have: Practical verification, validation, and debugging skills in a presilicon environment.
• Nice-to-have: Coverage-driven validation and experience in IP/SoC ASIC validation.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with Specman E and/or SystemVerilog OVM/UVM methodologies.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with x86 core architecture and instruction set.
• Nice-to-have: Additional software design and coding experience.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or another Science/Engineering field, or a Master's in those fields. The posting also allows equivalent practical experience or a combination of industry experience, internships, and coursework to meet the education requirement.

About the Company

Company: Intel Corporation

Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, USA

Intel Corporation is a leading multinational technology company known for its innovative semiconductor solutions, including microprocessors, artificial intelligence accelerators, and memory products. Headquartered in the United States, Intel focuses on cutting-edge technology and a collaborative working environment, driving advancements in semiconductor manufacturing to meet global demands. The company emphasizes professional development and aims to shape the future of technology through groundbreaking designs.