Principal CPU Software Architect

at Nvidia

📍 Santa Clara, United States

USD 272,000-488,800 per year

SENIOR

✅ On-site

Used Tools & Technologies

GPU HPC

Required Skills & Competences
Tag name is followed by "@" symbol and proficiency level value. About proficiency levels:

1-2 — basic awareness. Minimal hands-on experience, and a rudimentary understanding of the technology's purpose;

3-6 — daily use. Comfortable and regular usage, capable of handling common tasks and challenges related to the technology;

7-9 — you are an expert, you can teach others, you know all the pitfalls and tricks;

10 — exceptional knowledge, comprehensive understanding, and adeptness in all aspects of the technology, including advanced problem-solving. Think twice before claiming or demanding such level.

Security @ 3 Software Development @ 7 Linux @ 7 Communication @ 4 Deep Learning @ 4 AI @ 4

Details

We are looking for a CPU System Software Architect to work with world-class systems architects and deep learning professionals to define the next generation CPUs and System on Chips. You will collaborate across software, hardware, ASIC design, verification, and platform teams to maximize the potential of NVIDIA SoC products, integrating CPUs, GPUs, custom processors and accelerators for AI and high-performance computing applications.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to craft the next generation CPUs and SoCs.
Bring a deep understanding of software architecture, system software technologies, and modern OSes to drive hardware architecture decisions.
Provide direction and advice for designing optimized solutions to various software engineering organizations.
Collaborate with key partners to customize solutions to meet their requirements.
Research upcoming industry directions for NVIDIA's key markets and provide engagement advice to senior management.

Requirements

MS or PhD degree in computer or electrical engineering, or equivalent experience.
15+ years of software and/or architecture experience with CPUs and SoCs.
Deep knowledge of OS/driver software stacks (for example, Linux) and a very strong software development background in C.
Excellent communication skills to describe hard problems in simple terms and drive multi-functional groups to efficient engineering solutions.
Excellent analytical, written, and verbal interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a global team.

Ways to Stand Out / Preferred Qualifications

Excellent understanding of processor architectures such as ARM, RISC-V, and x86.
Background with virtualization technologies and hypervisors.
Familiarity with CPU and SoC security architecture, such as ARM Confidential Compute.
Experience working with the Linux open source community.

Compensation & Benefits

Base salary ranges by level: Level 6 — 272,000 USD to 431,250 USD; Level 7 — 320,000 USD to 488,750 USD.
Eligible for equity and company benefits.

Additional Information

Applications accepted at least until June 16, 2026.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is an equal opportunity employer and committed to fostering an inclusive work environment.