Staff, CPU Architecture & Performance Research Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

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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.

Staff , CPU Architecture & Performance Research Engineer

What You'll Do

Architecture Research Lab is looking for Staff CPU Architecture & Performance Engineer to drive detailed performance analysis and architectural optimization for current and next-generation CPU (RISC-V) cores. This role focuses on deep ownership of performance-critical micro-architectural domains, workload analysis, and data-driven recommendations that influence core architecture decisions.

You will work closely with architects, design, compiler, and system teams to evaluate trade-offs, identify bottlenecks, and improve performance across real-world workloads

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

Job ID: 42850

• Own performance analysis for one or more CPU microarchitectural domains (e.g., frontend, execution engine, memory subsystem).
• Build, extend, and validate architectural performance models and simulators.
• Perform CPI/IPC breakdowns and root-cause performance bottlenecks.
• Evaluate microarchitectural features and optimizations using trace-driven, analytical, and cycle-accurate models.
• Characterize workloads and benchmarks (SPEC, server, client, AI/ML, internal traces).
• Translate performance data into clear architectural recommendations.
• Work leading to patents and publication.

What You Bring

• Master's in Computer Engineering, Computer Science or related filed with 8+ years of experience or PhD in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with 5+ years of experience.
• 5+ years of experience in CPU microarchitecture and/or performance engineering.
• Experience with RISC-V, ARM or X86 architectures.
• Strong understanding of:
• Out-of-order execution, branch prediction, pipelines, and speculation
• Cache coherence, memory systems, prefetching, and NUMA effects
• Hands-on experience with architectural simulators (like gem5).
• Strong programming skills in C/C++ and Python.
• Experience analyzing large performance datasets and traces.
• Familiarity with compiler optimizations and hardware/software co-design..
• Proven ability - prior tapeout experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in power/performance/area (PPA) trade-off analysis.
• Experience / Familiarity with SIMD / Vectors / VME for AI inference workloads..
• Prior leadership guiding junior engineers.
• Prior patent / publication experience.
• You're inclusive, adapting your style to the situation and diverse global norms of our people.
• 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.

#LI-SF1

What We Offer
The pay range below is for all roles at this level across all US locations and functions. Pay within this range varies by work location and 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

$163,000—$253,000 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.

Trade Secret Notice

By submitting an application, you agree not to disclose to Samsung—or encourage Samsung to use—any confidential or proprietary information (including trade secrets) belonging to a current or former employer or other entity.

Applicant Privacy Policy
- us/careers/us/privacy/