Tenstorrent is leading the industry on cutting-edge AI technology, revolutionizing performance expectations, ease of use, and cost efficiency. With AI redefining the computing paradigm, solutions must evolve to unify innovations in software models, compilers, platforms, networking, and semiconductors. Our diverse team of technologists have developed a high performance RISC-V CPU from scratch, and share a passion for AI and a deep desire to build the best AI platform possible. We value collaboration, curiosity, and a commitment to solving hard problems. We are growing our team and looking for contributors of all seniorities.
Tenstorrent is seeking a Physical Design Engineer to enable customer success with our industry-leading RISC-V CPU and AI accelerator IP products. You'll own the complete physical implementation of our Ascalon CPU cores and Tensix AI cores for customer deliverables, optimizing these complex IPs across various configurations and technology nodes. With major licensees including LG and Hyundai, this role directly impacts how customers deploy Tenstorrent's revolutionary compute architectures in their silicon products.
This role is hybrid, based out of Santa Clara, CA, Fort Collins, CO, or Austin, TX.
We welcome candidates at various experience levels for this role. During the interview process, candidates will be assessed for the appropriate level, and offers will align with that level, which may differ from the one in this posting.
Who You Are
- An experienced physical designer passionate about delivering production-quality IP that powers next-generation computing.
- Expert at optimizing complex CPU and AI accelerator cores for diverse customer requirements and configurations.
- Strong communicator who can interface directly with customers and translate their PPA needs into implementation strategies.
- Detail-oriented engineer who takes pride in creating comprehensive documentation and integration guides.
What We Need
- BS/MS/PhD in EE/ECE/CE/CS with expertise in high-performance, low-power physical design implementation.
- Proven track record optimizing PPA for complex designs (CPU cores, AI accelerators) on advanced nodes.
- Hands-on experience with full PD flow: synthesis, PnR, timing closure, floorplanning, and power optimization.
- Strong scripting skills (Tcl/Perl/Python) and ability to collaborate with RTL teams for design exploration.
What You Will Learn
- How to implement and optimize state-of-the-art RISC-V CPUs (up to 20 SPECint2006/GHz) and AI cores for diverse customer applications.
- Strategies for productizing complex IP across multiple configurations, from 2-8 core clusters to varied cache architectures.
- Customer engagement techniques for addressing PPA concerns and enabling successful IP integration.
- The unique challenges of delivering high-performance IP that enables customer innovation and customization.
Compensation for all engineers at Tenstorrent ranges from $100k - $500k including base and variable compensation targets. Experience, skills, education, background and location all impact the actual offer made.
Tenstorrent offers a highly competitive compensation package and benefits, and we are an equal opportunity employer.
This offer of employment is contingent upon the applicant being eligible to access U.S. export-controlled technology. Due to U.S. export laws, including those codified in the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the Company is required to ensure compliance with these laws when transferring technology to nationals of certain countries (such as EAR Country Groups D:1, E1, and E2). These requirements apply to persons located in the U.S. and all countries outside the U.S. As the position offered will have direct and/or indirect access to information, systems, or technologies subject to these laws, the offer may be contingent upon your citizenship/permanent residency status or ability to obtain prior license approval from the U.S. Commerce Department or applicable federal agency. If employment is not possible due to U.S. export laws, any offer of employment will be rescinded.
Top Skills
Similar Jobs
What you need to know about the Colorado Tech Scene
Key Facts About Colorado Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 260,000; 8.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Lockheed Martin, Century Link, Comcast, BAE Systems, Level 3
- Key Industries: Software, artificial intelligence, aerospace, e-commerce, fintech, healthtech
- Funding Landscape: $4.9 billion in VC funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Access Venture Partners, Ridgeline Ventures, Techstars, Blackhorn Ventures
- Research Centers and Universities: Colorado School of Mines, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Denver, Colorado State University, Mesa Laboratory, Space Science Institute, National Center for Atmospheric Research, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Gottlieb Institute
