Principal CPU Software Architect

NVIDIA; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 272,000 - 431,250; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Comprehensive Benefits

Job summary

NVIDIA is seeking a CPU System Software Architect to shape the future of AI-driven CPUs and SoCs. In this cross-disciplinary role, you will collaborate with internal teams and partners to optimize performance and develop state-of-the-art technology solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a MS or PhD in Computer or Electrical Engineering, with 15+ years of experience in software architecture. Strong communication and analytical abilities are essential for success. At NVIDIA, you will join a dynamic and forward-thinking team that values innovation and collaboration.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of software and/or architecture experience with CPUs and SoCs.
• Deep knowledge of OS/driver software stacks and strong software development background.
• Excellent communication skills to describe complex problems simply.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Hardware and Software Engineers on CPUs and SoCs.
• Provide direction for designing optimized solutions.
• Research industry directions and provide engagement advice.

Skills

Software Architecture

C Programming

Linux

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Education

MS or PhD in Computer or Electrical Engineering

Job description

We are now looking for a CPU System Software Architect!

Do you want to be a part of the Artificial Intelligence Revolution? Would you like to work with world‑class systems architects and deep learning professionals to define the next generation CPUs and System on Chips? NVIDIA is developing processor and system architectures that are at the forefront of accelerating agentic AI, building data centers, and enabling other high‑performance computing applications. We are architecting the most advanced CPUs and SoC's in the world for these applications and are looking for software architects to join our effort. In this position, you will have the opportunity to work with teams to maximize the potential of our SoC products, bringing together NVIDIA CPUs, GPUs, custom processors and accelerators. Your role will be cross disciplinary, collaborating with industry partners, customers, internal architects, software, ASIC design, verification, and platform teams. Our software architects excel at pushing the state of the art, while making the best engineering trade‑offs.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Collaborate with Hardware and Software Engineers to craft the next generation CPUs and SoCs
• Bring a deep understanding of Software Architecture, system software technologies, and modern OSes to drive hardware architecture decisions
• Provide direction and advice for designing optimized solutions to various software engineering organizations
• Collaborate with key partners to customize solutions to meet their requirements
• Research upcoming industry directions for NVIDIA's key markets and provide engagement advice to Sr. Management

What We Need To See

• You have a MS or PhD degree in computer or electrical engineering or equivalent experience
• 15+ years of software and/or architecture experience with CPUs and SoCs.
• A deep knowledge of OS/driver software stacks, e.g., Linux and a very strong Software development background with C
• Excellent communication skills to describe hard problems in simple terms and drive multi-functional groups to efficient engineering solutions
• Excellent analytical, written, and verbal interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a global team

Ways To Stand Out From The Crowd

• Excellent understanding of processor architectures such as ARM, RISC‑V, x86
• Background with virtualization technologies and hypervisors
• Familiarity with CPU and SoC security architecture, such as ARM Confidential Compute
• Experience in working with the Linux open source community

NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward‑thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us. If you're creative, autonomous and love a challenge, we want to hear from you!

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD for Level 6, and 320,000 USD - 488,750 USD for Level 7.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until June 16, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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