SOC Performance Architect

Posted:
4/30/2025, 11:53:00 PM

Location(s):
San Jose, California, United States ⋅ California, United States

Experience Level(s):
Expert or higher ⋅ Senior

Field(s):
Software Engineering

Workplace Type:
On-site

Position Summary

Samsung, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, is founded on a simple philosophy – the endless pursuit of excellence will create a better world for all. At Samsung Austin Research and Development Center (SARC) and Advanced Computing Lab (ACL), we are building a center of excellence for Intellectual Property (IP) that is applied to high-performance computing devices (mobile, automotive, and other custom market segments) consumed by millions of people around the world. Come build with us!

Role and Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly experienced and skilled SOC Performance Architect to join our team at Samsung Austin R&D Center (SARC) and Advanced Computing Lab (ACL). As part of our SOC Architecture team, you will be responsible for modeling and performance optimization of System-on-Chip (SOC) architectures, with a primary focus on improving performance features and ensuring seamless execution of Android operating systems. You will be involved in development of full system simulation infrastructure with Android support and will require strong software skills in scripting, coding, and performance analysis.

  • You develop and maintain performance models of SOC architectures using various tools and methodologies.
  • You analyze and optimize performance bottlenecks in SOC designs to improve overall system performance.
  • You design and develop new performance features to enhance SOC architectures.
  • You implement and test performance enhancements, ensuring compatibility with Android and other operating systems.
  • You develop scripts and code to automate performance analysis, modeling, and optimization tasks.
  • You boot latest Android on the Gem5 simulator and troubleshoot issues that arise during the boot process.
  • You optimize the Gem5 simulator configuration for improved performance and stability.
  • You work with the software team to integrate Android with the SOC architecture.
  • You utilize programming languages such as Python, C++, and Perl to create custom tools and scripts.
  • You analyze system performance using various tools and methodologies.
  • You identify and debug performance issues, providing recommendations for improvement.
  • You collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software and hardware, to ensure performance requirements are met.
  • You communicate performance optimization plans, results, and recommendations to stakeholders.

Skills and Qualifications

  • 15+ years of experience with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science/Engineering, or 13+ years of experience with a Master’s Degree, or 11+ years of experience with a PhD
  • 15+ years of experience in SOC architecture, performance modeling, analysis, and optimization.
  • Proven experience with Gem5 simulator, including simulation setup, performance modeling, and troubleshooting.
  • Well versed in Android operating system (Android 5/6) and its boot process.
  • Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, C++, and Perl and automation frameworks.
  • In-depth understanding of SOC architecture and design principles.
  • Familiarity with SOC design and verification methodologies is a plus.
  • Good communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Our Team

We’re building a new team to influence the product roadmap for a market-leading system IP solution. Our team focuses on delivering system modeling capability based on optimization and use-case-driven analysis (gaming, computational photography) that enables a world-class memory subsystem.

With architecture scalability at the frontier of our design focus, our performance- and power-optimized IP solution gets integrated into complex semiconductor products, aiming to reach multiple market segments.

Being part of a new team of talented individuals with vastly diverse backgrounds and skill sets at a well-established global company means you have limitless room to explore, innovate, and expand role responsibilities to build technical expertise. With a big charter ahead, we get to do challenging work and solve unique problems in a highly collaborative and supportive environment. You will always be learning while helping us shape the team’s culture.

Total Rewards

At Samsung – SARC/ACL, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $197,041 and $257,336. Your actual base pay will depend on variables that may include your education skills, qualifications, experience, and work location. This is an exempt position, which is not eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Samsung employees have access to benefits including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), free onsite lunch, employee purchase program, tuition assistance (after 6 months), paid time off, student loan program, wellness incentives, and many more. In addition, regular full-time employees (salaried or hourly) are eligible for MBO bonus compensation, based on company, division, and individual performance.

Additionally, this role might be eligible to participate in long term incentive plan and relocation.

U.S. Export Control

This position requires the ability to access information subject to U.S. export control restrictions.  Applicants must have the ability to access export-controlled information or be eligible to receive a government authorization to access export-controlled information.

Trade Secrets

By submitting an application, you [applicant] agree[s] not to disclose to Samsung, or induce Samsung to use, any confidential or proprietary information (including trade secrets) belonging to any current or previous employer or other person or entity.

#ACL

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