Software Engineer

Senior Software Engineer – Time SynchronizationPalo Alto, CaliforniaAbout Clockwork SystemsClockwork.io – Software Driven Fabrics to increase GPU cluster utilizationClockwork Systems was founded by Stanford researchers and veteran systems engineers who share a vision for redefining the foundations of distributed computing. As AI workloads grow increasingly complex, traditional infrastructure struggles to meet the demands of performance, reliability, and precise coordination. Clockwork is pioneering a software-driven approach to AI fabrics by delivering cross-stack observability to catch and quickly resolve problems, workload fault tolerance to keep jobs running through failures, and performance acceleration that dynamically routes and paces traffic to avoid congestion.About the RoleWe are seeking a Senior Engineer to lead development of our Core ClockSync systems. This role focuses on building and scaling low-latency, highly accurate time synchronization infrastructure across distributed environments. You will work at the intersection of distributed systems, networking, and systems engineering to ensure correctness, reliability, and performance of time coordination across clusters and services.What You Will DoDesign and implement core time synchronization algorithms and servicesImprove accuracy, drift correction, and fault tolerance of distributed clocksBuild globally scalable services that operate under tight latency and consistency constraintsDevelop observability systems for clock health, skew detection, and anomaly analysisOptimize performance at the OS, kernel, and network levels where necessaryCollaborate with infrastructure, platform, and product teamsLead technical direction and mentor engineersWhat We're Looking For6+ years of experience in systems or distributed systems engineeringStrong proficiency in C++ and GoDeep understanding of distributed systems concepts (consensus, replication, fault tolerance)Experience with time synchronization protocols (NTP, PTP) or related domainsFamiliarity with Linux systems programming and networking stacksExperience debugging low-level performance and correctness issuesStrong problem-solving and design skillsNice to HaveExperience with kernel development or eBPFBackground in real-time systems or high-frequency trading infrastructureKnowledge of hardware clocks, NIC timestamping, or GPS-based timingExperience operating large-scale distributed systems in productionEnjoyChallenging projects.A friendly and inclusive workplace culture.Competitive compensation.A great benefits package.Catered lunch.Compensation for this position will vary based on the skills and experience you bring, as well as internal equity considerations. For candidates hired at the posted level, the expected base salary range is $150,000 - $230,000. In addition to cash compensation, this role is eligible to participate in the company's equity program, which may include stock options granted in accordance with the company's equity plan and subject to approval and applicable vesting schedules.Clockwork Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building world-class teams by welcoming bright, passionate individuals from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We believe diversity drives innovation, and we grow stronger together.