Theorem Proving Engineer

Job Title

Theorem Proving Engineer

Role Summary

Work with hardware designers and verification engineers to formally verify data-path RTL designs by developing abstract C models, proving equivalence between RTL and models, and using the ACL2 theorem prover to verify models against architectural specifications. The role supports verification infrastructure and may explore interactive theorem proving for additional processor components.

Experience Level

Mid-level. No specific years of experience stated.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include developing formal models and performing formal verification for arithmetic and data-path designs.

• Analyze data-path RTL designs and underlying algorithms.
• Develop abstract C models representing RTL behavior.
• Establish equivalence between RTL and C models using a commercial sequential logic equivalence checker (e.g., SLEC).
• Formally verify models against high-level architectural specifications using the ACL2 theorem prover.
• Collaborate with designers and verification engineers across projects to integrate the verification methodology.
• Improve verification infrastructure and interfaces between tools (ACL2, SLEC, etc.).
• Investigate and apply interactive theorem proving to other processor components where beneficial.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and abilities; desirable items are noted.

• Strong mathematical reasoning and familiarity with floating-point arithmetic.
• Understanding of algorithms and techniques used to implement elementary arithmetic operations.
• Proficient in C programming; able to read Verilog.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a hybrid/remote working environment.
• Excellent communication and cross-team collaboration skills.
• Nice-to-have: demonstrated ability to develop complex mathematical proofs.
• Nice-to-have: experience with interactive theorem proving (especially ACL2).
• Nice-to-have: familiarity with commercial sequential logic equivalence checkers (e.g., SLEC).
• Nice-to-have: general knowledge of CPU/GPU microarchitecture (out-of-order execution, memory systems).

Education Requirements

MS or PhD in Computer Science or Mathematics.

About the Company

Company: Arm

Headquarters: Cambridge, United Kingdom

ARM is a global leader in semiconductor and software design, driving innovation in computing technology. The company specializes in designing processors and systems that provide the essential building blocks for electronic devices. ARM's architecture is widely used in smartphones, servers, and IoT devices, and its collaborative culture fosters bold thinking, diversity, and high-impact benefits for its talented workforce.