Staff Software Engineer – Platform Debug

Qualcomm; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 151,900 - 227,900; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual discretionary bonus

Potential annual RSU grants

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Qualcomm is looking for a Software Platform Debug Engineer in Santa Clara, California. This role involves designing, developing, and debugging software for high-performance server platforms, requiring collaboration across teams to solve complex issues.

Candidates should have a strong background in software engineering, debug capabilities, and a degree in a related field. The compensation includes a competitive salary and extensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 4+ years' experience in Software Engineering or related work experience.
• 2+ years' experience with programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python.
• Experience with ARM debug architectures or frameworks is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop software for debug functionality.
• Troubleshoot complex software defects across components.
• Collaborate with teams to identify root causes and deliver fixes.

Skills

C

C++

Java

Python

Debug capabilities

Computer architecture

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science or related field

Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science or related field

PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science or related field

Tools

JTAG debug

High-performance trace

Debug and diagnostic tools

Job description

General Summary

We are seeking a skilled Software Platform Debug Engineer to design, develop, and debug low‑level software that enables and supports debug visibility on high‑performance server platforms. These debug features include both dynamic debug (e.g., peek/poke) and post‑mortem (crash) capabilities. In this role, you will work close to the hardware/software boundary, solving complex system‑level issues across firmware, operating systems, platform software, and host tooling. You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver robust, scalable solutions that meet demanding performance and reliability requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain software to support debug functionality across multiple system layers
• Troubleshoot and resolve highly complex software defects across integrated components
• Analyze system behavior by gathering and correlating information across modules, subsystems, and interfaces
• Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and software teams to identify root causes and deliver effective fixes
• Communicate progress, risks, and mitigation strategies clearly to project leads and stakeholders
• Identify design or implementation gaps and proactively drive solutions
• Contribute technical input and solution strategies during design and debug reviews
• Develop and execute unit and integration tests to ensure stability and functional correctness
• Perform thorough code reviews and provide constructive technical feedback
• Manage priorities, timelines, and deliverables for small‑ to medium‑sized initiatives

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• 2+ years of work experience with programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience building software stacks for high‑performance systems
• 5+ years of experience in debug software development (tools, firmware, applications)
• Master’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering
• 10+ years of experience building and debugging software for high‑performance platforms
• Experience with ARM debug architectures or frameworks

Technical Skills & Expertise

• Experience designing and/or supporting debug capabilities in complex SoCs and high‑performance CPU architectures, including:
  • JTAG debug and tooling
  • High‑performance trace
  • System crash analysis
• Strong understanding of computer architecture, including:
  • High‑performance server designs
  • Hardware/software interfaces
• Proficiency in C and assembly language
• Systems programming experience using Python or similar languages
• Familiarity with modern build systems and distributed version control workflows
• Experience developing and debugging:
  • Platform and system software
  • Firmware and boot software
  • Debug and diagnostic tools

Level of Responsibility

• Autonomy: Operates independently with minimal supervision
• Communication: Conveys complex technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences, including senior leadership
• Influence: Provides technical input that impacts key architectural and organizational decisions
• Execution: Manages multi‑step, high‑complexity tasks with strong attention to detail
• Innovation: Applies creativity and technical judgment to develop new approaches and solutions
• Problem Solving: Uses advanced analytical reasoning to diagnose and resolve complex system issues

Equal Employment Opportunity

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an accessible hiring process for individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay range: $151,900.00 – $227,900.00. In addition to a competitive base salary, the role includes an annual discretionary bonus program and potential annual RSU grants. Qualcomm offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your success at work, at home, and in your community.