CPU System and Compute Die Architect

Job Title

CPU System and Compute Die Architect

Role Summary

Design CPU system architecture for high-performance SoCs, focusing on interrupts, timers, interconnects, NoC protocols, debug/RAS, telemetry, and multi-die CPU interactions. Deliver micro-architecture specifications and work with hardware, software, and firmware teams to enable system features and product definition.

Experience Level

Senior-level role. Typical candidate: 15+ years of CPU and SoC architecture experience. Minimum qualifications provide alternatives tied to degree level (see Education Requirements).

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead micro-architecture and CPU system design for high-performance SoCs.
• Produce high-level architecture and micro-architecture specifications translatable to RTL.
• Collaborate with HW, SW, and FW architects to define end-to-end CPU system solutions.
• Drive performance exploration with CPU modeling teams and evaluate trade-offs.
• Define and specify debug, trace, scan-dump, memory-dump, and DFx mechanisms.
• Specify telemetry and performance-monitoring architectures.
• Document and present technical designs to engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Address system integration and die-to-die channel considerations for multi-die CPUs.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience:

• Deep knowledge of microprocessor architecture and CPU system features (interconnect protocols, timer synchronization, interrupt controllers, configuration access protocols, RAS/safety mechanisms).
• Experience with coherent and non-coherent NoC protocols and interconnect architectures.
• Practical experience with multi-die CPU designs and die-to-die channel implications.
• Experience designing debug and trace architectures, scan-dump and memory-dump mechanisms, and other DFx techniques.
• Experience with power and performance telemetry and performance monitoring architectures.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with software and firmware control loops that manage system-level features.
• Solid understanding of logic design principles, timing, and power trade-offs.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with CPU cluster architecture and advanced high-performance/low-power micro-architecture techniques.

Education Requirements

The posting references advanced degrees and experience paths: MS in Computer or Electrical Engineering is cited for senior candidates (with 15+ years experience). Minimum qualifications allow: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 8+ years experience; OR Master's with 7+ years; OR PhD with 6+ years. Fields specified include Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical fields; equivalent relevant work experience is accepted where noted.

About the Company

Company: Qualcomm

Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States

Qualcomm is a global leader in semiconductor and telecommunications equipment, specializing in mobile technologies and innovations. Known for its Adreno GPUs, the company provides solutions enabling advancements in mobile gaming, AI, VR/AR, and autonomous driving. Qualcomm's cutting-edge technology and commitment to high-performance, power-efficient designs drive the evolution of mobile graphics and connectivity worldwide.