SOC Architect (AI)

TL;DR

SOC Architect (AI Silicon): Leading the definition and development of next-generation custom AI silicon for edge deployments with an accent on energy-efficient ML compute subsystems and high-performance SoC architecture. Focus on driving system-level tradeoff analysis and hardware/software co-design to maximize performance per watt.

Location: San Francisco (Hardware/Onsite)

Salary: $266K – $445K + Equity

Company

An AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity.

What you will do

• Define the architecture and technical roadmap for custom SoCs targeted for edge applications.
• Drive system-level tradeoff analysis across compute, memory, interconnect, power, thermal, and cost constraints.
• Architect energy-efficient ML compute subsystems optimized for inference workloads and real-world deployment.
• Collaborate with internal hardware, software, and product teams to align architecture with platform needs.
• Partner with external silicon vendors and IP providers to execute development plans.
• Guide implementation teams through microarchitecture, RTL development, validation, and bring-up phases.

Requirements

• Proven experience defining and delivering complex SoC or ASIC architectures from concept to production.
• Deep understanding of AI/ML accelerators, edge inference workloads, and energy-efficient compute design.
• Strong knowledge of SoC subsystems including CPU/GPU/NPU architectures and memory hierarchies.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in fast-paced, execution-driven environments.
• Must meet U.S. export control laws and regulations legal status requirements.

Nice to have

• Experience with edge AI devices, embedded systems, or consumer hardware platforms.
• Background in performance modeling and silicon cost optimization.
• Familiarity with advanced process nodes and modern semiconductor development flows.

Culture & Benefits

• Mission-driven focus on achieving safe and beneficial AGI.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge hardware optimization and co-design.
• Inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and voices.
• Equal opportunity employer with a commitment to fairness and accessibility.