Senior R&D Software Engineer, VLSI Floorplanning and Optimization

at Nvidia
📍 Santa Clara, United States
USD 196,000-368,000 per year
SENIOR
✅ On-site

SCRAPED

Used Tools & Technologies

Not specified

Required Skills & Competences ?

Software Development @ 4 R @ 4 C @ 4 C++ @ 4 Algorithms @ 4 Machine Learning @ 4 Communication @ 4

Details

NVIDIA's team develops internal EDA tools by combining advances in parallel computing, machine learning, and novel algorithms in C++. This R&D Software Engineer role focuses on EDA strategies and algorithms for floorplanning, design estimation, and optimization. The work mixes graph-based algorithms, AI, and designer feedback to solve real VLSI problems and directly impact advanced AI hardware.

Responsibilities

  • Invent and optimize new methods for floorplanning and chip-level optimization tools.
  • Develop machine learning strategies to improve efficiency of design space exploration.
  • Explore high-performance algorithms for block placement, datapath estimation, and early design estimation, including methods that efficiently incorporate human insight.
  • Explore use of LLMs (Large Language Models), GNNs (Graph Neural Networks), GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks), and Reinforcement Learning for efficient EDA solutions.
  • Own the full process from discovery and invention of new optimization opportunities through final deployment of solutions; define new projects and drive roadmap for hardware design productivity.

Requirements

  • MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science or equivalent experience.
  • 10+ years of EDA software and VLSI hardware design experience.
  • Proven track record in software development with C++, particularly in algorithm development related to graphs, placement, optimization, analysis and visualization.
  • Familiarity with EDA techniques including floorplanning, placement, routability, partitioning, static timing analysis, and SAT solvers.

Ways to stand out

  • Experience with C++17 / C++14 features (lambdas, concurrency).
  • Deep understanding of algorithm design principles: complexity analysis, multithreading, distributed computing, efficient memory and I/O use.
  • Hands-on experience in chip-level floorplanning, timing estimation, and design optimization.
  • Familiarity with machine learning techniques for analysis and optimization, and use of AI code generation tools.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Compensation and benefits

  • Base salary ranges (determined by location, experience, and comparable pay):
    • Level 5: 196,000 USD - 310,500 USD
    • Level 6: 232,000 USD - 368,000 USD
  • You will also be eligible for equity and benefits. (Link provided in original posting.)

Additional information

  • Location: Santa Clara, CA, United States.
  • Employment type: Full time.
  • Applications accepted at least until July 29, 2025.
  • NVIDIA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse work environment.