CPU Performance Architect

AheadComputing, Inc.; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AheadComputing, Inc. is seeking an engineer to identify and analyze performance miscorrelations between RTL and performance simulations, verifying pre-silicon targets.

You will write performance models in C++ and develop Python scripts to support modeling efforts. You will analyze CPU performance with simulation tools, collaborate with senior architects to identify bottlenecks and propose optimizations, and help refine microarchitectural features to balance power, performance, and area.

Qualifications

• Familiar with microprocessor architecture and CPU microarchitecture concepts.
• Experience with cycle-accurate performance modeling or CPU simulation tools, written in C++.
• Experience with Python for automation and analysis.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a desire to learn.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, including documenting findings and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Identifying and analyzing performance miscorrelations of RTL against performance simulations and detailed specifications to verify pre-silicon performance targets.
• Contribute to performance modeling efforts, including writing models in C++ and developing scripts and tools in Python.
• Analyze CPU performance using simulation tools and methodologies.
• Collaborate with senior architects and designers to identify performance bottlenecks and propose optimizations.
• Assist in refining microarchitectural features to balance power, performance, and area requirements.

Skills

microprocessor architecture

cycle-accurate performance modeling

documentation

communication

learning agility

Education

Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

C++

Python

Job description

• Identifying and analyzing performance miscorrelations of RTL against performance simulations and detailed specifications to verify pre-silicon performance targets.
• Contribute to performance modeling efforts, including writing models in C++ and developing scripts and tools in Python.
• Analyze CPU performance using simulation tools and methodologies.
• Collaborate with senior architects and designers to identify performance bottlenecks and propose optimizations.
• Assist in refining microarchitectural features to balance power, performance, and area requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Familiarity with microprocessor architecture and basic knowledge of CPU microarchitecture concepts.
• Some experience (professional or academic) with detailed, cycle accurate performance modeling or CPU simulation tools, written in C++.
• Experience with Python for automation and analysis.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a desire to learn.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, including the ability to clearly document technical findings and work with others to investigate technical issues
• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic understanding of high-performance computing strategies and features.
• Basic understanding of Verilog/SystemVerilog (through coursework, internships, or project experience).
• Familiarity with the RISC-V specification or other CPU ISAs.
• Interest or experience in general-purpose software domains (e.g., operating systems, databases, virtual machines).

Join our team and be part of shaping the future of CPU performance. You will have the opportunity to learn from experienced architects, work on cutting-edge projects, and help deliver high-performance, energy-efficient CPU designs to market.