NPU Diagnostics Software Engineer

Job Title

NPU Diagnostics Software Engineer

Role Summary

Design and develop diagnostics software to validate AMD's Neural Processing Unit (NPU / AI Engine) across pre-silicon and post-silicon stages. Work on system-level tests, ASIC bring-up, and automation within a cross-functional hardware, firmware, driver, and validation team in Markham, ON.

Focus areas include low-level embedded programming, register-level debug, test automation, and applying AI/ML to accelerate test development and failure triage.

Experience Level

Mid-level (mid-career). The posting does not specify years of experience but expects hands-on embedded/low-level software and hardware bring-up experience.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include development, debugging, and automation for NPU diagnostics and qualification.

• Design and implement tests validating NPU hardware features in pre-silicon and post-silicon stages.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware issues using register-level debug tools and GDB.
• Participate in APU ASIC bring-up and test execution.
• Develop and maintain SLT (System Level Test) and ASIC qualification suites.
• Optimize diagnostics software for coverage, effectiveness, and efficiency.
• Develop and deploy AI-based tools and workflows to speed test development, failure triage, and debug.
• Build and maintain automation tools to improve engineering productivity.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and preferred additions.

• Must-have: Proven experience in low-level or embedded software development with direct hardware interaction.
• Strong C/C++ programming skills; familiarity with modern C++ standards is a plus.
• Linux software development and debugging experience; proficiency with GDB or similar debuggers.
• Proficiency in Python for tooling, automation, and integrating ML solutions.
• Experience with source control systems (Git, SVN, Perforce) and register-level debugging.
• Strong debugging, testing, and communication skills; effective cross-functional collaboration.
• Nice-to-have: Hands-on experience with AI/ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow), LLM APIs/agent frameworks, NPU/AI accelerator architecture, APU/CPU/GPU familiarity, parallel and multi-threaded programming.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's, master's, or PhD in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.

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.