Principal Software Engineer - Kernels

d-Matrix inc.; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

d-Matrix inc. is seeking a Principal Software Engineer specializing in kernels at our headquarters in Santa Clara, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining software kernels for next-generation AI hardware, ensuring optimized performance.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in computer architecture and extensive experience with C/C++ and Python. The position offers a hybrid work model, requiring onsite presence 3-5 days per week.

Qualifications

• MS in computer engineering or related with 12+ years of industry experience.
• Strong grasp of data structures and system software.
• Experience with specialized hardware like FPGAs and GPUs.

Responsibilities

• Develop, enhance, and maintain software kernels for AI hardware.
• Collaborate closely with compiler and hardware experts.
• Build and scale software deliverables in tight development windows.

Skills

C/C++ and Python development

Machine Learning fundamentals

Computer architecture

Development for embedded SIMD vector processors

Experience with ML frameworks

Education

MS or PhD in computer engineering, math, or physics

Tools

CUDA

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

At d-Matrix, we are focused on unleashing the potential of generative AI to power the transformation of technology. We are at the forefront of software and hardware innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Our culture is one of respect and collaboration.

We value humility and believe in direct communication. Our team is inclusive, and our differing perspectives allow for better solutions. We are seeking individuals passionate about tackling challenges and are driven by execution. Ready to come find your playground? Together, we can help shape the endless possibilities of AI.

Location:

Hybrid, working onsite at our Santa Clara, CA, headquarters 3-5 days per week.

Principal Software Engineer - Kernels

The role requires you to be part of the team that helps productize the SW stack for our AI compute engine. As part of the software team, you will be responsible for the development, enhancement, and maintenance of software kernels for next‑generation AI hardware. You possess experience building software kernels for HW architectures. You possess a very strong understanding of various hardware architectures and how to map algorithms to the architecture. You understand how to map computational graphs generated by AI frameworks to the underlying architecture. You have had past experience working across all aspects of the full‑stack toolchain and understand the nuances of what it takes to optimize and trade off various aspects of hardware‑software co‑design. You can build and scale software deliverables in a tight development window. You will work with a team of compiler experts to build out the compiler infrastructure, working closely with other software (ML, systems) and hardware (mixed signal, DSP, CPU) experts in the company.

What you will bring:

Minimum:

• MS in computer engineering, math, physics, or a related degree with 12+ years of industry experience or a PhD in computer engineering, math, physics, or a related degree with 7+ years of industry experience.
• Strong grasp of computer architecture, data structures, system software, and machine learning fundamentals.
• Proficient in C/C++ and Python development in Linux environments and using standard development tools.
• Experience implementing algorithms in high‑level languages such as C/C++ and Python.
• Experience implementing algorithms for specialized hardware such as FPGAs, DSPs, GPUs, and AI accelerators using libraries such as CUDA, etc.
• Experience in implementing operators commonly used in ML workloads—GEMMs, Convolutions, BLAS, SIMD operators for operations like softmax, layer normalization, pooling, etc.
• Experience with development for embedded SIMD vector processors such as Tensilica.
• Self‑motivated team player with a strong sense of ownership and leadership.

Preferred:

• Prior startup, small team, or incubation experience.
• Experience with ML frameworks such as TensorFlow and/or PyTorch.
• Experience working with ML compilers and algorithms, such as MLIR, LLVM, TVM, Glow, etc.
• Experience with a deep learning framework (such as PyTorch or TensorFlow) and ML models for CV, NLP, or recommendation.
• Work experience at a cloud provider or AI compute/subsystem company.

Equal Opportunity Employment Policy

d-Matrix is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and empowered to do their best work. We hire the best talent for our teams, regardless of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, or veteran status. Our focus is on hiring teammates with humble expertise, kindness, dedication and a willingness to embrace challenges and learn together every day.

d-Matrix does not accept resumes or candidate submissions from external agencies. We appreciate the interest and effort of recruitment firms, but we kindly request that individuals interested in opportunities with d-Matrix apply directly through our official channels. This approach allows us to streamline our hiring processes and maintain a consistent and fair evaluation of all applicants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.