CPU Performance Engineer, Platform Architecture

Apple; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 184,700 - 277,600; Full time

Job summary

Apple seeks a CPU Performance Engineer focused on the memory subsystem to join the CPU Platform Architecture team in Austin, TX. You will analyze workloads, optimize bottlenecks, and drive data‑driven decisions while collaborating with CPU/SoC designers across RTL and modeling activities.

Required are 10+ years in the field, strong C/C++ skills, and experience with performance simulation environments; MS/PhD is preferred. Competitive package with stock participation and relocation support.

Qualifications

• BS degree is required.
• Experience in CPU and SoC architecture and micro-architecture.
• Experience with performance simulation environments.
• Object‑oriented programming in C/C++ and scripting in Perl or Python.

Responsibilities

• Analyze single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads to identify bottlenecks.
• Maintain and enhance the simulation environment for data‑driven decisions.
• Collaborate with CPU/SoC designers to explore and model ideas.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Scripting (Perl or Python)

Memory subsystem knowledge

Performance modeling

RTL collaboration

Education

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering / Computer Engineering / Computer Science

Tools

Performance simulation environments

Job description

Overview

The CPU Platform Architecture team is responsible for pushing the boundaries of both single‑threaded and multi‑threaded CPU performance, to enhance the user experience of many Apple products. The team is composed of experts with deep experience in microarchitecture, ISA definition, performance modeling, power modeling, and workload analysis. We are seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and confident individual to join the CPU Platform Architecture team to help drive advanced exploration for next‑generation iPhone, iPad, Mac, and server CPU designs.

Responsibilities

As a CPU Performance Engineer with a focus on the memory subsystem, you will be part of a team that defines and optimizes CPU and cache micro‑architecture. You will collaborate with experienced CPU and SoC designers in micro‑architecture and RTL to assess the feasibility of ideas through modeling, refine ideas, model correlation, and seed new ideas. The role requires the analysis of single‑threaded and multi‑threaded workloads across existing and new product categories to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement. You will maintain and enhance the simulation environment to enable data‑driven decisions and continually look for ways to boost the productivity of the entire team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of memory latency tolerance techniques or other aspects of the CPU memory subsystem (e.g., prefetching, caching policies)
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience
• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science
• Understanding of common data structures and algorithms
• Familiarity with SIMD, vector, or accelerator architectures
• Familiarity with MP performance
• Comfortable working in an environment of uncertainty and able to navigate through ambiguities
• Experience in a research‑driven environment

Minimum Qualifications

• BS degree
• Experience in CPU and SoC architecture and micro‑architecture
• Experience with performance simulation environments
• Object‑oriented programming experience in C/C++
• Experience in a scripting language such as Perl or Python

Pay & Benefits

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. The base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $277,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become shareholders through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs, receive discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and purchase Apple stock at a discount via the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will receive comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and reimbursement for certain educational expenses – including tuition. This role may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation assistance.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.