Senior Director, Architecture Research Lab (San Jose)

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Advancing the World’s Technology Together

Our technology solutions power the tools you use every day--including smartphones, electric vehicles, hyperscale data centers, IoT devices, and so much more. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to be part of a global leader whose innovative designs are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and powering the future.

We believe innovation and growth are driven by an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We’re dedicated to empowering people to be their true selves. Together, we’re building a better tomorrow for our employees, customers, partners, and communities.

What You’ll Do

Lead cutting‑edge research on next‑generation AI system architectures. The role is responsible for end‑to‑end co‑design of AI workloads, system‑level modeling, hardware platforms, and high‑performance processors that leverage Samsung’s advanced memory technologies to eliminate capacity, bandwidth, and large‑scale communication bottlenecks.

Location: Daily onsite presence at our San Jose Headquarters in alignment with our Flexible Work policy.

AI System Architecture Leadership

• Define system‑level architectures that solve memory‑capacity, bandwidth, and interconnect challenges for large AI workloads (e.g., large language models, recommendation systems).
• Build and maintain analytical and event‑driven simulation frameworks for compute‑memory‑network performance at rack scale.
• Conduct design‑space exploration and quantitative trade‑off studies (performance, power, cost) to guide architecture decisions.
• Partner with SAIT HQ teams to align modeling insights with real‑world AI system implementations.

RISC‑V CPU Architecture Leadership

• Architect high‑performance, out‑of‑order RISC‑V CPU cores that serve as host processors for AI computing systems.
• Drive IPC‑focused feature path‑finding; lead micro‑architecture research through performance‑model simulation and workload analysis.
• Produce detailed micro‑architecture specifications and guide cache/memory hierarchy design for optimal AI workload execution.

Research & Innovation Management

• Lead a multidisciplinary research team, set technical roadmaps, and ensure delivery of high‑impact publications.
• Present architectural insights and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and external partners.

What You Bring

• Education : Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience : 10+years in system‑level architecture research or large‑scale computing platform design, with a strong focus on AI workloads.
• Technical Expertise
  • Performance modeling, event‑driven simulation, and quantitative analysis of compute‑memory‑interconnect systems.
  • Deep knowledge of modern CPU/accelerator architectures (RISC‑V, ARM, x86) and heterogeneous integration.
  • Proven ability to design rack‑scale AI system architectures that address memory, bandwidth, and interconnect constraints.
  • Proficiency with transaction‑level modeling (TLM) and event‑driven simulation for compute‑memory‑network co‑design.
  • Experience in large‑scale design‑space exploration and PPA (performance, power, area/cost) trade‑off analysis.
  • Expertise in architecture and micro‑architecture design of out‑of‑order CPUs.
  • Hands‑on experience with simulation tools and programming languages such as Python and C++.
• Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication; proven ability to deliver technical presentations to senior stakeholders.

Preferred Experience

• Proven track record of publishing high‑impact research papers.
• Experience influencing product roadmaps through architectural recommendations.
• Strong collaborative history with cross‑functional teams (hardware, software, memory technology).
• You’re inclusive, adapting your style to the situation and diverse global norms of our people.
• An avid learner, you approach challenges with curiosity and resilience, seeking data to help build understanding.
• You’re collaborative, building relationships, humbly offering support and openly welcoming approaches.
  • Innovative and creative, you proactively explore new ideas and adapt quickly to change

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What We Offer

The pay range below is for all roles at this level across all US locations and functions. Paywithin this range varies by work locationand may also depend on job‑related knowledge, skills,and experience. We also offer incentive opportunities that reward employees based on individual and company performance.

This is in addition to our diverse package of benefits centered around the wellbeing of our employees and their loved ones. In addition to the usual Medical/Dental/Vision/401k, our inclusive rewards plan empowers our people to care for their whole selves. An investment in your future is an investment in ours.

Give Back With a charitable giving match and frequent opportunities to get involved, we take an active role in supporting the community.
Enjoy Time Away You’ll start with 4+ weeks of paid time off a year, plus holidays and sick leave, to rest and recharge.
Care for Family Whatever family means to you, we want to support you along the way—including a stipend for fertility care or adoption, medical travel support, and virtual vet care for your fur babies.
Prioritize Emotional Wellness With on‑demand apps and free confidential therapy sessions, you’ll have support no matter where you are.
Stay Fit Eating well and being active are important parts of a healthy life. Our onsite Café and gym, plus virtual classes, make it easier.
Embrace Flexibility Benefits are best when you have the space to use them. That’s why we facilitate a flexible environment so you can find the right balance for you.

Base Pay Range

$246,000 — $430,000 USD

Equal Opportunity Employment Policy

Samsung Semiconductor takes pride in being an equal opportunity workplace dedicated to fostering an environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered to excel, regardless of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, or veteran status.

When selecting team members, we prioritize talent and qualities such as humility, kindness, and dedication. We extend comprehensive accommodations throughout our recruiting processes for candidates with disabilities, long‑term conditions, neurodivergent individuals, or those requiring pregnancy‑related support. All candidates scheduled for an interview will receive guidance on requesting accommodations.

Our Commitment to Innovation and Fairness

At Samsung Semiconductor, we use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the recruitment process to enhance efficiency. However, AI is used as a support tool, not a final decision‑maker. All hiring decisions are made by our human recruiting team and hiring managers to ensure every candidate is evaluated fairly and holistically.

Recruiting Agency Policy

We do not accept unsolicited resumes. Only authorized recruitment agencies that have a current and valid agreement with Samsung Semiconductor, Inc. are permitted to submit resumes for any job openings.

Applicant AI Use Policy

At Samsung Semiconductor, we support innovation and technology. However, to ensure a fair and authentic assessment, we ask that candidates rely on their own knowledge and skills throughout the process. AI tools may be used for basic preparation, grammar, and research, but should not be used to generate or assist with submitted content or live interview responses. If we determine that AI is being used outside these guidelines, we reserve the right to pause or end the interview, and your candidacy may be disqualified.

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