CPU Microcode Design Engineer

Job Title

CPU Microcode Design Engineer

Role Summary

Design, implement, and optimize CPU microcode features within the CPU Microcode Team in Intel's Silicon & Platform Engineering organization. Work with processor architects and design engineers to integrate microcode into processor architecture and improve performance, reliability, and functionality.

This role requires hands-on low-level firmware development and close collaboration across architecture, RTL, and validation teams.

Experience Level

Mid-level. This role expects prior professional experience in CPU microarchitecture, firmware, or related engineering areas; see Education Requirements for specific degree and years guidance.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include implementing and validating microcode features and collaborating across hardware and firmware teams.

• Develop and optimize microcode to support processor instructions and features.
• Define microcode architecture in partnership with processor architects.
• Integrate microcode with processor RTL and system design; participate in cross-functional reviews.
• Perform performance and reliability analysis across workloads and operating conditions.
• Debug microcode and related RTL/firmware interactions using industry-standard tools.
• Identify and propose improvements to microcode implementations to meet performance and design constraints.
• Communicate technical status and issues clearly to engineering peers and stakeholders.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience; preferred items are useful but not required.

• Must-have: Experience with computer architecture and microarchitecture techniques.
• Must-have: RTL logic design using Verilog and experience debugging RTL with industry-standard tools.
• Must-have: Scripting experience (Linux shell, Perl, or Python) and simulator development using C/C++.
• Nice-to-have: Firmware development experience in CPU microcode.
• Nice-to-have: Exposure to x86 or other CPU ISAs and assembly programming.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with performance analysis tools and techniques.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant experience; OR a Master's degree in the same fields with at least 6 months of related educational or work experience. Fields of study listed in the posting: Computer/Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical fields.

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.