Software Enabling and Optimization Engineer — GPU Compute (Vulkan / Cross-OS)

Job Title

Software Enabling and Optimization Engineer — GPU Compute (Vulkan / Cross-OS)

Role Summary

Work on GPU software enabling and performance optimization for Intel client platforms (laptops, desktops, workstations). Focus on Vulkan-based compute workloads and cross-OS development across Windows, Linux, and ChromeOS.

The role involves partner engagement (ISVs and open-source), end-to-end software development (prototype to validation), performance analysis, and collaboration with internal product and architecture teams.

Experience Level

Mid-level engineer. Typical background: several years of hands-on GPU software or systems engineering experience (not entry-only, not explicitly senior).

Responsibilities

Deliver enabling software, prototypes, and performance improvements for GPU compute workloads and collaborate with partners and internal teams.

• Design, implement, debug, and optimize GPU compute software and enabling technologies.
• Develop prototypes, proofs-of-concept, and performance experiments using Vulkan and related stacks.
• Characterize workloads, profile, benchmark, and tune performance across platforms.
• Collaborate with ISVs, open-source communities, and internal teams on architecture, implementation, and validation.
• Provide technical consultation, training, and hands-on support to external and internal developers.
• Document results: technical notes, presentations, and training materials.
• Provide technical feedback to product, software, and architecture teams and monitor ecosystem/API trends.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience. Preferred items listed separately.

• Strong experience in low-level GPU programming and compute pipeline development.
• Expert experience with the Vulkan API.
• Advanced programming skills in modern C and C++.
• Experience with performance profiling, debugging, and optimization of GPU or heterogeneous applications.
• Solid understanding of CPU, GPU, or SoC architecture and interactions between runtimes, drivers, and compilers.
• Working knowledge of Windows, Linux, and ChromeOS environments.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and presentation skills; fluent English.
• Self-motivated and able to work across organizational boundaries.

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with heterogeneous programming models (SYCL, OpenCL, CUDA) or other graphics APIs (OpenGL, DirectX, Metal).
• Familiarity with AI/ML acceleration, media processing, NPU offload, shader programming, SPIR-V, runtimes, or compiler toolchains.
• Experience with performance and debugging tools (e.g. RenderDoc, VTune, oneAPI tools) and benchmarking/validation workflows.
• Experience working with external software partners or open-source communities and strong presentation skills for technical audiences.

Education Requirements

Required: Master’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related scientific/engineering discipline. Preferred: Ph.D. in a related field. Equivalent practical experience accepted where explicitly stated.

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.