Staff Engineer, SoC Architecture – Memory Subsystem and Interconnect

Samsung Research America (SRA); Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 179,200 - 246,150; Full time

Job summary

Samsung Research America (SRA) is seeking a SOC Architect to lead the design of next-generation SOCs. This hands-on role involves architecting systems for Fabric, Cache, and DRAM controllers to improve performance and efficiency across various Galaxy devices.

The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in SOC architecture and will collaborate with teams globally to refine innovative technology.

A competitive salary and benefits package is offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years experience in SOC design and architecture.
• Direct experience in Fabric, System Cache, DRAM controller architecture.
• Understanding of memory scheduling and prioritization.

Responsibilities

• Guide development of innovative Fabric and DRAM controller architecture.
• Evaluate architecture proposals with SoC Architects.
• Perform simulation and analysis of controller features.

Skills

SOC or ASIC design and architecture

Memory controller architecture

ARM bus infrastructure

JEDEC standards understanding

Education

BSc, Masters, or PhD in Computer Science/Engineering

Tools

BookSim Simulator

Platform Architect

Job description

Lab Summary

The Samsung Research America SOC Architecture Lab provides innovative SoC architecture, bus / memory subsystem, multimedia subsystems and key IP blocks for future Samsung Galaxy products (Smartphones, tablets and future devices). We are defining the high-performance SoC architecture development for various Galaxy device lineups. This lab collaborates with Samsung’s strategic SoC partners, Samsung MX headquarter team, and key R&D teams around the globe to innovate and reinvent technology that will positively impact millions of people around the world via the Galaxy flagship products.

Position Summary

We are looking for a SOC Architect Fabric, System Cache and DRAM Controller to help architect next generation SOCs. This is a highly visible hands‑on role leading individual and team contributions to Fabric, System cache and DRAM controller sub‑system architecture, interface, performance and power tradeoffs.

Position Responsibilities

• Guide on development of innovative Fabric, System cache and DRAM controller Architectural and microarchitectural features to boost power and performance on various targeted workloads in next generation SOCs.
• Identify and deliver Fabric, System cache and DRAM controller subsystem architecture proposals for products in new and existing markets.
• Evaluate architecture proposal benefits in collaboration with team of SoC Architects and communicate the results across related engineering audiences (SW, HW, Architecture, Leadership).
• Perform high‑level performance modeling/simulation and analysis of Fabric, System cache and DRAM controller features, applications, benchmarks, and complex use cases.
• Direct and orchestrate performance modeling, and studies to support inclusion of these features in the next generation “Fabric, System cache and DRAM controller” microarchitecture based on performance, area or power improvement.
• Deliver architecture/microarchitecture proposals and specifications to the design team and articulate them effectively across audiences ranging from hardware & software engineers to architecture community peers, and to technology leadership.
• Collaborate with silicon bring‑up and product teams to verify and debug the proposal and its delivered performance.
• Collaborate across teams to bring microarchitectural proposals to fruition across the SOC, Driver, OS, System through detailed documentations.

Required Skills

• BSc, Masters, or PhD in Computer Science/Engineering, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 8+ years of experience in SOC or ASIC design and architecture.
• Prior direct experience (> 5 years) in Fabric, System Cache, DRAM controller Architecture or microarchitecture is required.
• Understanding of memory controller architecture, memory scheduling, prioritization and QoS.
• Detailed knowledge of ARM bus infrastructure (ACE/AXI/AHB).
• Fluid knowledge of one or more JEDEC standards such as LPDDR, DDR, or HBM, and the ability to analyze such standards and drive recommendations.
• Background in memory systems and computer architecture to understand the tradeoffs among memory bandwidth, latency, performance, power, SoC area.

Special Attributes

• Experience with BookSim Simulator.
• Experience with Platform Architect.

Additional Information

Our total rewards programs are designed to motivate and engage exceptional talent. The base pay range for roles at this level is listed below, but may be higher or lower in other states due to geographic differentials in the labor market. Within the base pay range, individual rates depend on a number of factors—including the role’s function and location as well as the individual’s knowledge, skills, experience, education and training. This is part of our comprehensive compensation package with annual bonus eligibility and generous benefits to help you live life well.

Base Pay Range: $179,200 - $246,150 USD

Disclosure of Trade Secrets

Samsung has a strict policy on trade secrets. In applying to Samsung and progressing through the recruitment process, you must not disclose any trade secrets of a current or previous employer.

Essential Job Functions

This position will be performed in an office setting. The position will require the incumbent to sit and stand at a desk, communicate in person and by telephone, and frequently operate standard office equipment, such as telephones and computers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

At Samsung, we believe that innovation and growth are driven by an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We aim to create a global team where everyone belongs and has equal opportunities, inspiring our talent to be their true selves. Together, we are building a better tomorrow for our customers, partners, and communities.

Samsung Research America is committed to employing a diverse workforce, and provide Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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