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Chip Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

InterSources

Chip Architect - Networking Switch

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$184K/yr

Chip Architect - Networking Switch Location: Saratoga, CA Duration: Full-time/Perm Client, is a new Silicon Valley hardware startup focused on accelerating the training performance of large AI models.

Sql Pager LLC

SoC (System on a Chip) Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$195K/yr

Strong foundation in SoC architecture, analysis, and chip integration * Proven track record as lead architect on several production tape outs. * Experience in heterogeneous SoCs and NoC interconnects

Ceva

Wireless Chip Architect

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$75 - $98.75/hr

As a Wireless Architect, you drive the definition of connectivity subsystem architectures for next-generation products including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and UWB with mixed analog/digital hardware. You will ...

Lightmatter

Chip Architecture Leader

Boston, MA · On-site

We are hiring a Head of Chip Architecture, you will collaborate with both external partners and internal engineering teams to develop and deliver innovative, high-volume photonics products. In this ...

Retym

Optical DSP Chief Architect

Austin, TX · On-site

Work closely with hardware, firmware, and Chip architect to optimize DSP implementation for performance, power, and area. * Conduct system-level modelling and simulations to validate DSP algorithms ...

Nvidia

Senior I/O Subsystem Architect

Santa Clara, CA · Hybrid

We are now looking for a Senior I/O Architect for our NVLink chip to chip team! NVIDIA is seeking an experienced technical leader passionate about defining advanced chip interconnects and protocols.

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All JobsChip Architect Jobs

Chip Architect information

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$46.5K

$128.8K

$201.5K

How much do chip architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for chip architect in the United States is $128,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,000.00 and $166,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs will boom in 2026?

In 2026, roles related to chip architecture and semiconductor design are expected to grow due to increasing demand for advanced electronics and AI hardware. Skills in VLSI design, hardware description languages, and proficiency with CAD tools will be valuable for chip architects and related positions. The industry will also see growth in embedded systems and IoT device development jobs.

What are some common challenges faced by Chip Architects when translating system requirements into chip designs?

Chip Architects often face the challenge of balancing performance, power consumption, and cost constraints while translating high-level system requirements into detailed chip architectures. They must ensure that their designs can be efficiently implemented in silicon, taking into account factors like manufacturability, scalability, and integration with existing hardware and software. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams—such as hardware, software, and verification engineers—is essential to address issues early and ensure alignment throughout the development process. Staying updated with rapidly evolving semiconductor technologies and industry standards is also a key part of overcoming these challenges.

What does a Chip Architect do?

A Chip Architect is responsible for designing the overall structure and functionality of integrated circuits or microchips. They define the chip's architecture, specifying how different components such as processors, memory, and interfaces work together to achieve desired performance, power, and area targets. Chip Architects collaborate with hardware engineers, software developers, and verification teams to ensure the final product meets technical specifications and industry standards. Their work is crucial for developing advanced electronics used in computers, smartphones, and other digital devices.

What is the highest paid architect job?

The highest paid roles for chip architects are typically senior or lead positions in semiconductor companies, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. Factors such as experience, expertise in hardware design, and working for major tech firms or chip manufacturers influence compensation levels.

What is the difference between Chip Architect vs Hardware Design Engineer?

AspectChip ArchitectHardware Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; experience in chip design and architectureBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; focus on circuit design and implementation
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D labs, collaborative project settingsDesign labs, testing facilities, manufacturing environments
Employer & Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, tech firms, integrated circuit manufacturersElectronics companies, semiconductor firms, hardware development labs

The main difference is that a Chip Architect focuses on designing the overall architecture and high-level specifications of chips, while a Hardware Design Engineer concentrates on implementing circuit designs based on specifications. Both roles require electrical engineering expertise, but the Chip Architect is more involved in conceptual and architectural decisions, whereas the Hardware Design Engineer handles detailed circuit development and testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chip Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chip Architect, you need deep expertise in computer architecture, digital circuit design, and strong analytical skills, usually supported by an advanced degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (like Verilog or VHDL), EDA tools, and simulation platforms is essential, along with knowledge of industry-standard protocols. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills set outstanding chip architects apart when collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient, innovative chips that meet performance, power, and cost requirements in a highly competitive technology industry.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior chip architects or lead hardware engineers in the semiconductor industry can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in VLSI design, and working at major technology companies. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives for top-tier professionals in specialized roles.

What jobs can DT get you?

A Chip Architect is responsible for designing and developing integrated circuit hardware, including microprocessors and other semiconductor devices. This role often leads to positions such as hardware engineer, system architect, or design engineer, and requires knowledge of digital design, hardware description languages, and electronic design automation tools.
More about Chip Architect jobs
What cities are hiring for Chip Architect jobs? Cities with the most Chip Architect job openings:
What states have the most Chip Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Chip Architect jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chip Architect jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chip Architect jobs are:
Chip Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chip Architect job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,756 per year, or $61.9 per hour.
Chip Architect - Networking Switch

Chip Architect - Networking Switch

InterSources

Saratoga, CA • On-site

$184K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop architectural specifications for next generation switch chips.

  • Provide technical leadership to a team comprising of Micro architects and Performance modeling architects.

  • Work cross functionally with the Design and Design Verification teams to define, implement, and validate networking protocol functions in hardware.

Job description

Chip Architect – Networking Switch

Location: Saratoga, CA Duration: Full-time/Perm

Client, is a new Silicon Valley hardware startup focused on accelerating the training performance of large AI models. Today's AI training performance is gated by numerous bottlenecks in the data center, resulting in degraded GPU utilization, long training cycles and high costs. Client introduces several industry-first innovations to deliver a solution that clears these bottlenecks to unlock AI performance while reducing cost and power. Client's solution and value proposition have been validated with the AI market leaders including hyperscalers and other large, well-known AI market participants. We are looking for a Networking Chip Architect to take part in definition and implementation of client's industry leading Networking IC. You should be a highly motivated self-starter eager to solve real-world problems. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of AI Networking.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop architectural specifications for next generation switch chips.
  • Provide technical leadership to a team comprising of Micro architects, and Performance modeling architects.
  • Work with the System/Software Architecture to ensure a streamlined multi-chip architecture.
  • Prior successful experience in architecting switches that achieved mass production is essential.
  • Perform architecture exploration and create detailed models for protocol processing engines.
  • Previous experience with Optical interfaces preferred.
  • Create protocol processing requirements from standards specifications.
  • Work cross functionally with Design team in defining and implementing the networking protocol functions in hardware.
  • Work with Design Verification team on unit-level and top-level functional verification and assist with pre-silicon and post-silicon validation activities.
Job Requirements:
  • MSEE with at least 15+ years of experience, PhD EE preferred.
  • Knowledge of Ethernet switch architectures is essential.
  • Knowledge of Layer 2, Layer 3 and Layer 4 networking protocols is required (for example, Ethernet, IPv4/IPv6, TCP/UDP, etc).
  • Experience in designing scalable Layer 2 and Layer 3 packet processing engines, buffer management algorithms and scheduling/shaping is required.
  • Experience with micro-architectural specification of switches.
  • Strong software background to develop architecture models for next generation switches.

InterSources Inc, a Certified Diverse Supplier, was founded in 2007 and offers innovative solutions to help clients with Digital Transformations across various domains and industries. Our history spans over 16 years and today we are an Award-Winning Global Software Consultancy solving complex problems with technology. We recognize that our employees and our clients are our strengths as the diverse talents and opportunities they bring to the table enable us to grow as a global platform and they are causally linked with our success. We provide strategic and technical advice, and we have expertise in areas covering Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Migration, Custom Software Development, Data Analytics Infrastructure & Cloud Solutions, Cyber Security Services, etc. We make reasonable accommodations for clients and employees and we do not discriminate based on any protected attribute including race, religion, color, national origin, gender sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or marital status. We also are a Google Cloud partner company. We align strategy with execution and provide secure service solutions by developing and using the latest technologies that thrive our resources to deliver industry-leading capabilities to our clients and customers, making it convenient for our clients to do business with InterSources Inc. Our teams also drive growth by refining technology-driven client experiences that put the users first, providing an unparalleled experience. This results in strengthening the core technologies of clients, enabling them to scale with flexibility, create seamless digital experiences and build lifelong relationships.

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About InterSources

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In 2007, Our journey began as pioneers in the realm of technology and security. Since then, InterSources Inc. has evolved into a trusted partner, leading the way in Cloud Security, Cybersecurity, PLG Consulting, Digital Transformation, and Professional Services. With a rich history of excellence and a forward-thinking approach, we continue to secure your digital future and drive innovation. Explore our legacy of success and discover the possibilities that lie ahead.

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

Year founded

2007

Social media

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