SoC Functional Validation Engineer - Memory

Job Title

SoC Functional Validation Engineer - Memory

Role Summary

Perform post-silicon functional validation and debug for Intel SoC platforms with a focus on memory subsystem bring-up and feature enablement (DDR/LPDDR). Work across hardware, firmware, BIOS and software to reproduce failures, root-cause complex issues, and enable stable memory operation for new CPU/SoC generations.

The role sits on the Functional Validation team responsible for post-silicon validation of Client AI PC SoCs and platforms, collaborating with architecture, design, firmware, BIOS and silicon teams.

Experience Level

Entry-level / College Grad - typically suitable for candidates with 0–2 years of relevant experience (posting allows Bachelor's with ~2 years or a Master's with no prior professional experience).

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities focus on hands-on validation, debug, and memory subsystem enablement.

• Perform post-silicon validation, debug and root-cause analysis for SoC platforms, CPUs, chipsets and boards.
• Lead memory feature enablement and DDR/LPDDR bring-up during power-on and platform bring-up activities.
• Debug memory training algorithms (read/write leveling, command/address training, timing optimization, voltage margining) and analyze training convergence.
• Analyze BIOS logs, training reports, margin data, eye diagrams and memory matrix results to identify failures and improve robustness.
• Perform DDR memory characterization, margin validation, RMT analysis and failure-pattern investigation across configurations and operating conditions.
• Develop and improve debug methodologies, flows and AI-assisted debug frameworks to increase efficiency.
• Collaborate with architecture, design, firmware, BIOS and silicon teams to resolve complex issues.
• Use lab equipment (logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, protocol analyzers, memory debug tools) to reproduce issues and collect data.
• Maintain and extend debug tool capabilities (traces, cross-triggers, VISA, scan, silicon observability) in pre- and post-silicon environments.

Requirements

Core technical skills and hands-on experience expected for effective performance in this role.

Must-have:

• Fundamental knowledge of SoC platform architectures, PC architecture and hardware setup.
• Proficiency in scripting or programming used for debugging and automation (e.g., Python, Tcl, shell scripting - specific languages not specified).
• Experience with system-level validation methodologies, including hardware and firmware integration testing.
• Hands-on experience using lab equipment and interpreting traces, logs and signal integrity data.
• Ability to analyze complex technical data and communicate findings to cross-functional teams.

Nice-to-have:

• Familiarity with Lauterbach debuggers, memory logic analyzers, oscilloscopes and protocol exercisers.
• Prior post-silicon or hardware debug experience for SoC validation.
• Experience with BIOS/MRC analysis and memory initialization/training code.
• Strong collaboration and presentation skills.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with ~2 years of experience OR a Master's degree in a relevant field with no prior professional experience. The posting references "relevant field" and allows skills demonstrated via internships, academic projects, coursework or hands-on training as qualifying experience.

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.