Principal Hardware Systems Engineer

At d-Matrix, we are focused on unleashing the potential of generative AI to power the transformation of technology. We are at the forefront of software and hardware innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Our culture is one of respect and collaboration.We value humility and believe in direct communication. Our team is inclusive, and our differing perspectives allow for better solutions. We are seeking individuals passionate about tackling challenges and are driven by execution. Ready to come find your playground? Together, we can help shape the endless possibilities of AI. Role Overviewd-Matrix is looking for a Principal Systems Hardware Engineer to own system architecture end-to-end — from concept through specification, design review, and production deployment. In this role, you'll act as the technical anchor for hardware decisions across interconnect, board, chassis, and rack-scale design, writing the specifications that partners and internal teams build against. You'll work independently against your objectives — setting technical direction without needing explicit guidance — while partnering closely with cross-functional teams and software groups to align hardware decisions with performance and workload needs. You'll review partner and vendor designs against requirements, surface misalignment and schedule risk early, and drive trade-off analysis across adjacent domains like interconnect, power, thermal, and mechanical. You'll also help establish the spec standards, review practices, and AI-assisted workflows that shape how d-Matrix builds systems at scale.What You Will DoOwn system architecture end-to-end — from concept through specification, design review, and production deployment — as the technical lead across teams and partnersAuthor system, board, and rack specifications, and review partner designs against them — surfacing misalignment and schedule risk earlySet direction for interconnect architecture — scale-up and scale-out fabrics, NICs, switches, optics, and topology — partnering with domain specialists to executeSet direction for board, chassis, and system architecture — component placement, PCB design, connectors, power, and thermal — at chassis, rack, and data-hall scale, partnering with domain specialists to executeEvaluate competing design options through trade-off analysis and "what-if" scenario planningDefine validation, bring-up, and qualification strategy for new platformsPartner with software teams to align hardware decisions with performance and workload needs, and help establish spec standards and review practices for the orgWhat You Will Bring8+ years of experience in hardware systems architecture, including deep, hands-on expertise in one core domain (interconnect, power, or thermal) for large-scale compute or networking systemsExperience owning hardware system architecture at scale (machine, rack, row, or cluster) — from specification through bring-up and high-volume production deploymentExperience reviewing partner designs and holding vendors to specificationAbility to reason about trade-offs across adjacent domains (interconnect, power, thermal, mechanical)Track record of technical leadership — owning directional decisions and driving alignment across teams and partnersDegree in EE, CE, ME, CS, or equivalentPreferred QualificationsExperience in hardware systems architecture for hyperscale, HPC, AI/ML, or high-end networking platformsExperience with AI accelerator systems and their scale-up/scale-out fabricsChip-package-system co-design experienceExpertise in one or more of: high-speed SerDes/PCIe/CXL/optics; BMC/firmware/secure boot; 48V/HVDC power delivery/liquid cooling; fleet-scale RAS; signal and power integrityExperience establishing new engineering functions or practicesEqual Opportunity Employment Policyd-Matrix is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and empowered to do their best work. We hire the best talent for our teams, regardless of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, or veteran status. Our focus is on hiring teammates with humble expertise, kindness, dedication and a willingness to embrace challenges and learn together every day.d-Matrix does not accept resumes or candidate submissions from external agencies. We appreciate the interest and effort of recruitment firms, but we kindly request that individual interested in opportunities with d-Matrix apply directly through our official channels. This approach allows us to streamline our hiring processes and maintain a consistent and fair evaluation of al applicants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Compensation Range: $195K - $285KLocationSanta ClaraEmployment TypeFull timeLocation TypeHybridDepartmentSystems EngineeringCompensation$195K – $285K • Offers Equity • Offers BonusThe pay range below is for all roles at this level across all US locations and functions. Individual pay rates depend on a number of factors—including the role’s function and location, as well as the individual’s knowledge, skills, experience, education, and training. 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.