Principal Engineer - Scale Out Networking & Systems Architecture

General Summary Qualcomm is seeking a Principal Engineer to serve as the technical authority for scale‑out networking in next‑generation AI accelerator platforms. This role owns the architecture, implementation, and partner alignment of multi‑server scale‑out systems, spanning NICs, firmware, Linux kernel drivers, user‑space libraries, and runtime integration. Key Responsibilities End‑to‑End Scale‑Out Architecture Act as principal technical owner for multi‑server scale‑out networking architecture Define and evolve RoCE‑based RDMA data paths for AI inference and distributed workloads Drive system‑level tradeoffs across: NICs and switches PCIe and DMA paths Firmware, Linux kernel drivers, and user‑space libraries Firmware, Driver, and Host Software Leadership Architect and review: RoCE / RDMA kernel drivers Firmware interfaces enabling peer‑to‑peer and zero‑copy transfers User‑space transport abstractions (e.g., UAL, ESUN) Debug and optimize performance across: Firmware → driver → user space Latency, congestion, ordering, and buffer management Influence upstream or ecosystem‑level designs where appropriate Partner & Ecosystem Engagement Serve as Qualcomm’s principal technical interface with: NIC vendors and switch vendors Silicon and platform partners Lead deep technical design‑ins, architecture reviews, and production escalations Translate partner and field learnings into platform and firmware roadmaps Execution & Technical Influence Drive complex cross‑org efforts from concept to production enablement Identify architectural risks early and lead mitigation Mentor senior engineers through design and architecture reviews Required Qualifications BS/MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience 10–15+ years experience in system software, networking, or platform engineering Proven experience building scale‑out server or cluster architectures Strong hands‑on experience with: Linux kernel networking and drivers RDMA / RoCE stacks (kernel and user space) Firmware‑software interfaces Excellent systems‑level debugging skills across HW/FW/OS boundaries Preferred Qualifications Hands‑on experience with: libibverbs, RDMA core, RoCE drivers, and firmware UAL, ESUN, or similar transport/runtime abstractions Background in AI, HPC, or accelerator‑based platforms Experience enabling multi‑server inference or disaggregated serving Strong C/C++ systems programming background (x86 and ARM64) Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 8+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience. Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 7+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience. PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 6+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience. 4+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc. Pay Range and Compensation Pay range: $192,600.00 - $289,000.00. The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales‑incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Equal Opportunity & Accessibility Statement Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e‑mail disability‑View email address on click.appcast.io or call Qualcomm’s toll‑free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries). EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification. #J-18808-Ljbffr