Memory Subsystem Architect and Design Engineer

AMD; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Inclusive work culture

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

AMD in Santa Clara is seeking a leader for the memory subsystem of cutting-edge network technologies. This role demands deep expertise in hardware engineering, especially in DDR5 and DDR4 memory systems.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s in Electrical or Computer Engineering, extensive experience in hardware troubleshooting, and proficiency in various development tools.

Benefits offered include competitive packages as well as an inclusive work culture. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in memory hardware and recent generations of DDR5 and DDR4 in design and debug.
• Hands-on expertise in hardware troubleshooting, including component-level isolation and failure analysis.
• Proficiency in hardware validation methodologies and using memory test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture and bring up of hardware systems involving next-gen memory subsystems.
• Investigate and resolve memory issues through root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Identify hardware improvement opportunities and implement test plans to validate them.

Skills

Expertise in DDR5/DDR4

Hardware troubleshooting

Communication skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Education

MS in Electrical or Computer Engineering

Tools

CAD platforms (Altium, Cadence)

Simulation tools (SPICE)

Scripting languages (Python)

Job description

At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next‑generation computing experiences—from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you’ll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world’s most important challenges—striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond.

The Role

This is a leadership role in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment focused on advancing cutting‑edge network technologies within an AI‑driven roadmap. You will lead and architect the memory subsystem of next‑generation network hardware.

The Person

You possess deep expertise in memory hardware, with hands‑on experience across recent generations of DDR5 and DDR4 in both design and debug. You will work closely with ASIC architects to evaluate and select memory controller IP/vendors, collaborate with silicon IP providers to optimize controller configurations, and partner with board designers to establish robust PCB trace design guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

Hardware Architecture and Bring up

• Lead the architecture and bring up of hardware systems and products involving next‑gen memory subsystems.

Root Cause Analysis And Corrective Action

• Investigate, hand‑on debug and resolve next‑gen and legacy memory issues, including root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Collaborate with IP and memory suppliers and vendors to resolve hardware‑related issues.
• Develop and implement corrective actions to prevent future hardware failures.

Design And Implementation Of Improvements

• Identify opportunities for hardware improvements, second sourcing, and cost reductions.
• Develop and implement test plans to validate hardware improvements.

Documentation And Knowledge Transfer

• Maintain and update technical documentation, including design documents, user manuals, and technical notes.
• Collaborate with knowledge management teams to ensure knowledge transfer and retention.

Collaboration And Communication

• Collaborate with stakeholders, including product management, sales, and marketing, to understand customer requirements and market needs.

Preferred Experience

• Extensive experience in hardware engineering, with a focus on next‑generation DDR5/DDR4 memory systems.
• Hands‑on expertise in hardware troubleshooting, including component‑level isolation, root cause analysis, repair, and rework.
• Strong foundation in hardware design principles, including circuit design, PCB layout, and system integration.
• Proficiency with hardware development tools, including CAD platforms (e.g., Altium, Cadence), simulation tools (e.g., SPICE), and scripting languages such as Python.
• Solid understanding of hardware validation and test methodologies, including debugging and failure analysis.
• Proficient in using memory test equipment, including logic and protocol analyzers.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across cross‑functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex technical issues and deliver effective solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and consistently meet deadlines.

Academic Credentials

• Preferred MS in Electrical or Computer Engineering.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.

AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third‑party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.

AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD’s “Responsible AI Policy” is available here.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.