CPU Verification Engineer

Job Title

CPU Verification Engineer

Role Summary

Responsible for functional verification of CPU logic and microarchitecture prior to silicon. Work within a cross-functional CPU engineering team (architecture, RTL, physical design) to develop verification strategies, build scalable testbenches, and validate system-level behavior.

The role emphasizes developing UVM-based verification, debugging pre-silicon failures, and improving verification infrastructure to meet functional, performance, and power targets.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Typical experience guidance from the posting: Bachelor's degree with 3+ years relevant experience, Master's degree with 2+ years, or PhD with 6+ months.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include verification planning, testbench development, simulation, and cross-team collaboration.

• Develop and execute verification plans that validate CPU logic against architectural specifications.
• Design and implement scalable UVM-based testbenches and functional coverage models.
• Run system-level simulations and stress tests to find design bugs and verify functional integrity.
• Debug and root-cause pre-silicon issues; implement fixes and test updates.
• Collaborate with CPU architects and RTL designers to verify complex architectural and microarchitectural features.
• Maintain and improve verification infrastructure, automation flows, and methodologies.
• Document verification strategies and lead technical reviews with design and architecture teams.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience required for initial consideration; preferred items are listed separately.

• Must-have: Strong expertise in SystemVerilog and UVM for testbench development.
• Must-have: Proficiency in scripting (Python or Perl) for test automation and debugging.
• Must-have: Experience programming in C++ and applying validation strategies informed by architecture.
• Must-have: Solid understanding of CPU architecture and microarchitecture fundamentals, including timing and power considerations.
• Must-have: Proven experience in design verification, validation, or related semiconductor engineering roles and strong debugging skills.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with Synopsys simulators (e.g., VCS), debug tools, and version control systems such as GIT.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with x86 architecture and assembly programming.
• Nice-to-have: Experience working in agile cross-functional teams and using modern verification automation practices.

Education Requirements

Minimum degree requirements: Bachelor's degree (with 3+ years relevant experience), Master's degree (with 2+ years), or PhD (with 6+ months) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related STEM field. The posting also indicates preference for advanced degrees in these fields and notes relevant internships, coursework, or industry experience as part of candidate preparation.

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.