Senior Embedded NPU Software Engineer

Qualcomm

Confirmed live yesterday High trust

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
San Diego, CA
Salary
$127,200–$190,800 / yr
Posted
106 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live yesterday
Closes
Nov 24, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Competitive pay

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $177k
This role $159k
$117k most similar roles pay here $219k

This role pays less than 60% of similar roles. Most pay $151,000–$203,725 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $159k versus about $177k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About Qualcomm

Qualcomm is a leading American semiconductor and telecommunications company based in San Diego, CA.

Qualcomm currently has 623 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $148,300–$222,500 across 603 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Senior Embedded NPU Software Engineer

The Embedded NPU Software Engineer, Senior joins the DSP Architecture and Design team to oversee the architecture, design, verification, and performance analysis for Digital Signal Processor development across mobile, machine learning, automotive, and IoT products. This role involves developing well-defined blocks and features while resolving complex architecture and design issues to meet specific power, performance, and timing standards. The engineer will work with high-performance microprocessor concepts including multi-core, multi-threaded, out-of-order, cache memory, and high-speed ALU designs. Key technical requirements include proficiency in C, C++, Python, and experience with computer architecture, embedded systems, and design verification methods. The role focuses on solving critical challenges in machine learning and modem technologies by implementing custom instruction sets and utilizing tools such as architectural simulators, digital design simulators, emulators, test generators, and design synthesis to evaluate trade-offs.

What you'll do

  • Oversee architecture, design, verification, and performance analysis for Digital Signal Processor (DSP) development.
  • Determine processor micro-architecture, logic design, and power management requirements.
  • Develop specific hardware blocks and features that meet quality, functionality, and timing standards.
  • Resolve complex architecture and design issues across multiple systems or subsystems.
  • Evaluate design tradeoffs using architectural simulators, digital design simulators, and emulators.
  • Implement custom instruction sets to optimize performance for machine learning and modem applications.
  • Track and document technical issues, features, and design changes through formal communication channels.

What we're looking for

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of experience.
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field with 1+ year of experience.
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience with high-performance microprocessor design.
  • 2+ years of experience with programming (e.g., C, C++, Python), computer architecture, or embedded systems.
  • 2+ years of experience in design verification methods.
  • 1+ year of experience working in a large matrixed organization.

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