Microprocessor Silicon Validation and Optimization Engineer

Qualcomm

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
San Diego, CAAustin, TX
Salary
$115,600–$173,400 / yr
Posted
10 days ago
Closes
Dec 1, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Below market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $193k
This role $144k
$102k most similar roles pay here $244k

This role pays less than 89% of similar roles. Most pay $169,112–$216,250 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $144k versus about $193k 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 750 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $154,000–$231,000 across 430 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Microprocessor Silicon Validation and Optimization Engineer

As a senior microprocessor validation engineer at Qualcomm Technologies, you will join a dynamic pre-silicon and post-silicon team responsible for the full lifecycle of complex System-on-Chip (SoC) development. Your day-to-day responsibilities include developing and executing comprehensive validation strategies, creating test content for functional verification and silicon characterization, and leading system-level debug efforts. You will collaborate closely with design and verification teams to identify root causes of issues and provide detailed analysis through clear technical reports. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in microprocessor architecture, experience in firmware development and testing, proficiency in C/C++, and familiarity with assembly languages such as ARM or x86/i32. This role demands expertise in silicon bring-up and debug, making it an excellent opportunity for those passionate about cutting-edge technology and innovation in the mobile device and AI sectors.

What you'll do

  • Develop and execute validation strategies for microprocessors in both pre-silicon and post-silicon phases.
  • Create test content for functional validation and silicon characterization of advanced processors.
  • Lead and support the bring-up process and system-level debug for new silicon products.
  • Perform detailed analysis on silicon data to interpret results accurately and communicate findings effectively.
  • Collaborate with design teams to map silicon issues back to pre-silicon verification environments.
  • Provide technical support and debugging assistance to customers using Qualcomm microprocessors.
  • Contribute to the full lifecycle of microprocessor development within complex SoCs.

What we're looking for

  • Bachelor’s or higher degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science.
  • 5-10 years of experience in microprocessor verification and silicon validation.
  • Proficiency in C/C++ and familiarity with assembly languages like ARM, DSP, or x86/i32.
  • Experience in functional validation, detailed debug, and firmware/BIOS development testing.
  • Ability to map silicon scenarios to pre-silicon verification environments and lead bring-up activities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical analysis and reporting.

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