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Cpu Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior CPU Architect

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Thorough knowledge of out-of-order microprocessor architecture and microarchitecture including high performance and low power trade-offs * Thorough knowledge of performance model development

CPU Performance Architect

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$165K/yr

Join Intel as a CPU Performance Architect in Austin, TX and play a pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge semiconductor technology. You will be at the forefront of designing and developing CPU logic ...

CPU Performance Architect

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$165K/yr

Join Intel as a CPU Performance Architect in Austin, TX and play a pivotal role in advancingcutting-edgesemiconductor technology.You will be at the forefront of designing and developing CPU logic ...

CPU Performance Architect

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$122K - $172K/yr

Develops and drives end-to-end CPU architecture specifications for highly optimized, modular, and scalable CPU based on hardware features, requirements, and interoperability of hardware and software ...

CPU Performance Architect

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$122K - $172K/yr

Develops and drives end-to-end CPU architecture specifications for highly optimized, modular, and scalable CPU based on hardware features, requirements, and interoperability of hardware and software ...

Senior CPU Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$196K/yr

Come join the CPU performance architecture team and help us push performance boundaries for all our CPU products! What you'll be doing: * Work on workload bring-up and performance analysis/projection ...

Showing results 21-40

Cpu Architect information

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$156.5K

$168K

How much do cpu architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for cpu architect in the United States is $167,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a CPU architect do?

A CPU architect is responsible for designing and developing the core components and structure of central processing units (CPUs) used in computers and other electronic devices. Their work involves defining the architecture, instruction sets, and performance features of processors to meet the needs of various applications. CPU architects collaborate with hardware engineers, software developers, and product teams to ensure the processor delivers optimal performance, energy efficiency, and compatibility. They also play a key role in addressing emerging technology trends and advancing processor capabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CPU architect?

To thrive as a CPU Architect, you need a strong background in computer engineering, digital logic design, and microarchitecture, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in processor design. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDL) like Verilog or VHDL, simulation tools, and industry-standard protocols is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and innovate within multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the development of high-performance, reliable processors that meet complex technical requirements and drive technological advancement.

What are some typical challenges faced by CPU architects when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

CPU Architects often work closely with hardware designers, software engineers, and verification teams. A common challenge is ensuring that the CPU design balances performance, power consumption, and area constraints while also aligning with the broader product roadmap. Effective communication is essential to translate complex architectural concepts into actionable requirements for other teams. Additionally, CPU Architects must frequently adapt to changing technology trends and customer needs, which requires flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

What is the difference between Cpu Architect vs Hardware Engineer?

AspectCpu ArchitectHardware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like IEEE or industry-specific trainingBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused, R&D labs, collaborative teams, often involved in architecture and system-level decisionsDevelopment and testing labs, manufacturing environments, hands-on hardware design and testing
Employer & Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, tech firms, R&D departmentsElectronics manufacturers, tech companies, hardware development firms

Cpu Architects focus on designing and developing CPU architectures, working on system-level specifications and performance optimization. Hardware Engineers handle the physical design, testing, and implementation of hardware components. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Cpu Architects are more involved in high-level design, whereas Hardware Engineers focus on physical hardware development and testing.

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Cities with the most Cpu Architect job openings:

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What states have the most Cpu Architect jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cpu Architect jobs include:

Infographic showing various Cpu Architect job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,842 per year, or $80.7 per hour.

Senior CPU Architect

AheadComputing Inc.

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

  • You will innovate and define features to target performance, power, area, and timing goals
  • You will propose and prototype features, run experiments, and analyze trade-offs between different implementation strategies
  • You will partner with design and verification engineers to develop and refine microarchitecture, and write high-level architecture specifications
  • You will explore high performance strategies and validate that the RTL design meets targeted performance

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Thorough knowledge of out-of-order microprocessor architecture and microarchitecture including high performance and low power trade-offs
  • Thorough knowledge of performance model development
  • Proficient in C++ or other object-oriented programming languages for building and extending performance models
  • Experience using an interpretive language such as Python
  • Expert problem-solving skills
  • Understanding of at least one of the following areas: load store unit, prefetching, paging, different cache strategies

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Deep understanding of memory consistency and coherence, multi-core architectures
  • Familiarity with the RISC-V specification
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with 4+ years of experience; OR a Masterโ€™s degree with 3+ years of experience; OR a PhD with 1+ years of experience.
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