CPU Micro-architect

Responsibilities

• Improve the performance (IPC, power/area efficiency) of state-of-the-art Out-of-Order (OoO) CPU cores, including pipelines, branch prediction, prefetching, and cache/TLB hierarchy.
• Work with performance simulation teams to model microarchitecture and correlate simulation results against silicon measurement data.
• Perform root cause analysis and debugging to identify and rectify discrepancies between models and hardware.
• Explore new features and ISA extensions, such as vector extensions and security enhancements, to drive performance and reliability.
• Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks through modeling and prototyping.
• Develop performance models and micro testbenches to validate key CPU features.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners to ensure seamless design integration.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience with a BS, 8+ years with an MS, or 6+ years with a PhD in Computer Science or Engineering.
• Extensive background in CPU microarchitecture design, including pipelining, superscalar design, and cache hierarchies.
• Strong experience in performance analysis, modeling, and optimization using benchmarks like GB6 and SpecInt17.
• Familiarity with Arm ISA (Armv8/v9) or equivalent ISAs such as x86 or RISC-V.
• Proficiency in hardware description languages (Verilog/SV) and programming languages (C++, Python) for modeling and simulation.
• Ability to correlate simulation results against hardware metrics like cache misses, TLB misses, and pipeline stalls.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay range ($151,000 - $251,800 depending on experience and location).
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) and life insurance.
• Onsite lunch and wellness incentives.
• Tuition assistance and student loan programs.
• Paid time off and MBO bonus compensation.

About the Company

Samsung is a global leader in advanced semiconductor technology. At the Samsung Austin Research and Development Center (SARC), we build high-performance computing IP that powers devices consumed by millions of people worldwide. Our System IP & SoC Architecture team designs the proprietary interconnects and memory controllers that drive premium consumer electronics.