Senior Principal Computer Architect AI/ML

About the Role

NXP Semiconductors invites an experienced Senior Computer Architect to join our in-house Neural Processor Unit design team located in Munich, Germany. This position places you within a global, cutting-edge technology environment aimed at establishing market leadership in intelligent edge computing. The primary focus is on hardware design, while also necessitating a comprehensive understanding of embedded software and compiler tools that utilize compute resources efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and enhance state-of-the-art AI accelerator intellectual properties applicable across a variety of products and applications.
• Stay current on neural network architectures and techniques to translate these into embedded implementations that meet power and cost restrictions.
• Engage actively in technical forums and monitor recent industrial and academic advancements relevant to the role.
• Leverage expertise in RTL design, C++/Python software development, and advanced computer architecture to guide and oversee the work of team members.
• Function as a senior contributor within a pioneering team advancing AI and ML technologies.
• Collaborate with global teams working on software tools, compilers, performance models, and hardware verification to ensure alignment and quality output.

Challenges

• Apply multidisciplinary technical skills spanning software, hardware, and architecture to solve complex design problems.
• Adapt quickly to evolving project stages, especially as development nears chip tape-out milestones.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience.
• Skilled at translating high-level Power/Performance/Area (PPA) specifications into practical hardware architectures.
• Demonstrated success in designing architectures with highly parallel, SIMD, vector, or matrix processing capabilities.
• Proficient in RTL design, simulation, and verification.
• Experienced with embedded C/C++ programming and Python or other high-level languages for modeling and automation.
• Knowledgeable in C-compilers and experienced interfacing with low-level and high-level software teams.
• Understanding of system-level integration and bus protocols including AMBA, memory controllers, and bus fabrics.
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Fundamental understanding of AI mathematical operations with willingness to deepen this expertise.
• Basic familiarity with DSP concepts such as FFT, filters, convolution, and correlation is advantageous.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Ability to work reliably and with security awareness, potentially supporting security certification tasks.

Additional Information

The successful candidate will work under leadership of experienced Directors and Fellows, providing opportunities for advanced skill development and career growth. Collaboration extends across continents including North America and Asia, underlining the importance of strong communication skills.