RTL Core/Processor Microarchitecture Engineer
QualcommJob Title
RTL Core/Processor Microarchitecture Engineer
Role Summary
Work on RTL design and microarchitecture for Hexagon processor cores at Qualcomm's Austin team, focusing on high-performance, low-power CPU and AI/modem cores. Deliver production-quality RTL through cross-functional collaboration with architecture, verification, physical design, and software teams.
Experience Level
Entry-level. The posting prefers approximately 1 year of experience in processor architecture or RTL design; suitable for candidates with early-career experience (0–3 years).
Responsibilities
Primary responsibilities include RTL development, PPA optimization, debugging, and co-design with software teams.
- Own and drive RTL design and microarchitecture development for high-performance, low-power CPU and AI cores.
- Collaborate with architecture, verification, physical design, and software teams to deliver production-quality RTL.
- Contribute to performance, power, and area (PPA) optimization, including clock gating, power domains, and other low-power techniques.
- Analyze and resolve timing, area, and functional issues throughout the design cycle.
- Apply instruction set architecture (ISA) knowledge to guide microarchitecture decisions for AI and signal-processing workloads.
- Work with AI software and compiler teams to enable hardware-software co-optimization for neural network inference.
Requirements
Must-have skills and core competencies. Preferred items are listed separately.
- Proficiency in RTL design using Verilog/SystemVerilog.
- Strong understanding of CPU microarchitecture: pipelines, out-of-order execution, and branch prediction.
- Experience with synthesis, timing closure, and low-power design techniques.
- Ability to analyze and resolve timing, area, and functional issues.
- Good communication and teamwork skills for cross-discipline collaboration.
Nice-to-have:
- Experience with AI accelerators, DSPs, or NPUs.
- Experience with modem cores or Hexagon architecture.
Education Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, or a related field required or equivalent practical experience. Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field preferred.
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.
