Software Engineer II - Compiler/LLVM

Job Title

Software Engineer II — Compiler/LLVM

Role Summary

Join the C Compiler team within Tensilica (a Cadence company) to develop LLVM-based compilers for Xtensa processors. The team focuses on code generation, instruction selection, architecture-aware optimizations, and real-workload performance.

You will work closely with hardware and architecture engineers to enable new processor features and deliver production-quality toolchain components used by semiconductor and systems customers.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Approximately 2+ years of academic or industry experience in systems software, compilers, or low-level development is expected.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities are implementation, optimization, and cross-team technical collaboration:

• Develop and enhance compiler components targeting Tensilica/Xtensa architectures.
• Implement and improve code generation, instruction selection, and core optimizations.
• Collaborate with hardware and architecture teams to enable and validate new features.
• Analyze performance and debug compiler- and system-level issues.

Requirements

Core technical skills and experience; items marked "Nice-to-have" are preferred but not required.

Must-have:

• Approximately 2+ years experience in systems software, compilers, or low-level development.
• Strong programming skills in C and/or C++.
• Foundational understanding of compiler concepts and computer architecture.

Nice-to-have:

• Exposure to LLVM, GCC, or similar compiler frameworks.
• Experience with embedded systems or performance analysis.
• Familiarity with assembly language.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

About the Company

Company: Cadence Design Systems

Headquarters: San Jose, California, USA

Cadence Design Systems is a global electronic design automation company that provides software, hardware, and intellectual property for designing advanced semiconductor chips. With over 25 years in the industry, Cadence is known for its innovative technology solutions and has been recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For. The company is dedicated to solving complex technical challenges in order to enable customers to create revolutionary products and experiences.