CPU DFD Validation Engineer

Job Title

CPU DFD Validation Engineer

Role Summary

Verify Design-For-Debug (DFD) logic and develop software debug solutions to support pre- and post-silicon validation of Intel CPUs. Work with CPU architects, RTL designers, physical design and validation teams to ensure DFD features meet debug and test requirements.

Experience Level

Entry / Early-career. The posting requests approximately 2+ years of relevant experience (typical for candidates with a Bachelor's degree); applicants with advanced degrees are also considered.

Responsibilities

Primary duties include planning and executing verification activities and providing post-silicon debug support.

• Develop DFD verification plans, testbenches and environments to cover DFD functionality versus CPU microarchitecture specifications.
• Define and execute verification flows using simulation, emulation and FPGA models; analyze power and timing; identify and document design bugs.
• Develop software tools and solutions to support post-silicon validation and external customer debug needs.
• Replicate, root-cause and debug issues across pre-silicon and post-silicon environments and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with architects, RTL and physical design teams to ensure DFD usage models are practical for post-silicon debug.
• Document test plans and lead technical reviews; maintain and improve verification infrastructure and methodologies.
• Contribute to definition and enhancement of DFD architecture and microarchitecture features.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience; preferred items listed separately.

• Proven experience with SystemVerilog and UVM for pre-silicon functional verification.
• Strong scripting and programming skills, especially Python; familiarity with Perl and C/C++.
• Solid understanding of CPU architecture and microarchitecture fundamentals.
• Experience debugging DFx/DFD issues in pre-silicon environments and troubleshooting across design and silicon stages.
• Experience using simulation, emulation and FPGA platforms for validation and software prototyping.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; effective verbal and written communication and cross-team collaboration.
• Self-motivated, able to work in a fast-paced engineering organization and drive continuous improvement.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of TAP (Test Access Port) and related debug/test interfaces.
• Prior ASIC or FPGA design verification experience, especially with x86 CPU designs.
• Experience using emulation/FPGA for software/application prototyping and post-silicon debug.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field is requested; PhD graduates are also considered. The posting pairs these degree expectations with approximately 2+ years of relevant experience for candidates with a Bachelor's degree.

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.