CPU Core RTL Design Engineer

Job Title

CPU Core RTL Design Engineer

Role Summary

Design and optimize RTL for next-generation high-performance CPU cores as part of a central core RTL team supporting client, server, and AI platforms. Work with architecture, verification, performance, and physical design partners to deliver microarchitecture features and core pipeline logic.

Role is based in Austin, TX with a hybrid workplace cadence. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Experience Level

Mid-level (no explicit years of experience stated).

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include implementing core pipeline RTL, collaborating across functions, and improving performance, power, and timing.

• Design and implement RTL for CPU core pipeline components and related logic.
• Contribute to microarchitecture definition for next-generation processor cores.
• Collaborate with architecture, verification, performance, and physical design teams to deliver optimized designs.
• Analyze and improve performance, power, and timing characteristics.
• Support design verification, synthesis, timing closure, and physical design efforts.
• Debug and resolve pre-silicon and post-silicon issues.
• Partner with cross-functional teams on design trade-offs and execution.
• Contribute to scalable RTL methodologies, libraries, and best practices.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and practical experience required to perform the role, followed by common preferred skills.

• Must-have: Verilog/SystemVerilog RTL development experience in CPU, SoC, or ASIC environments.
• Must-have: Strong understanding of modern CPU architecture, especially out-of-order cores, and experience in logic design for high-speed processor pipelines.
• Must-have: Experience debugging and optimizing designs in collaboration with performance and verification teams.
• Preferred: Experience with load/store units or similar core subsystems.
• Preferred: Familiarity with synthesis, place-and-route, timing closure, and physical design considerations.
• Preferred: Knowledge of power-efficient and low-power design techniques and timing/power optimization.
• Preferred: Exposure to the full product lifecycle, including post-silicon debug.
• Preferred: Familiarity with scripting (e.g., Python, Tcl) and concepts such as DFT, clocking, reset, and power management.
• Strong problem-solving, cross-team collaboration, clear communication, and the ability to work independently to resolve complex technical challenges.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field preferred.

About the Company

Company: Advanced Micro Devices

Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, USA

Advanced Micro Devices, or AMD, is a global semiconductor company that designs and manufactures microprocessors, graphics processors, and related technologies for a variety of computing devices. Known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, AMD's mission is to deliver high-performance computing solutions for AI, data centers, gaming, and embedded applications. They foster a collaborative, inclusive culture focused on creativity and problem-solving, aiming to drive progress and excellence in technology.