CPU Performance Architect

AheadComputing Inc.; Austin, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

AheadComputing Inc. is seeking a performance engineer to analyze RTL vs pre-silicon simulations, and help push CPU efficiency in our Austin, TX workspace.

You will develop cycle-accurate models in C++, write Python scripts for automation, and collaborate with architects to identify bottlenecks and propose architectural refinements.

Qualifications

• Requires familiarity with microprocessor architecture and CPU microarchitecture concepts.
• Experience with cycle-accurate performance modeling or CPU simulation tools written in C++.
• Proficient in Python for automation and data analysis.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills; ability to document findings clearly.
• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in EE/CE/CS or related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Identify and analyze performance miscorrelations of RTL against simulations and specs to verify pre-silicon targets.
• Contribute to performance modeling efforts; write models in C++ and develop Python scripts/tools.
• Analyze CPU performance using simulation tools and methodologies.
• Collaborate with senior architects/designers to identify bottlenecks and propose optimizations.
• Assist in refining microarchitectural features to balance power, performance, and area.

Skills

Microprocessor architecture

CPU microarchitecture concepts

Cycle-accurate performance modeling

C++ modeling

Python automation

Problem solving

Communication & documentation

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering / Computer Engineering / Computer Science

Tools

Verilog/SystemVerilog

CPU simulation tools

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.