Datacenter System Software Architect

About SiFive

The pioneers who introduced RISC-V to the world, SiFive is transforming the future of compute by enabling leading technology companies to innovate, optimize, and deliver advanced solutions across various markets. SiFive’s compute platforms are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with RISC-V, from artificial intelligence and machine learning to automotive, data centers, mobile, and consumer applications. SiFive is dedicated to connecting with talented individuals who share our passion for driving innovation and making the world a better place.

Job Description

The Role: As a datacenter system software architect, you will lead the design and implementation of high-performance RISC-V Linux systems for datacenters, collaborating closely with hardware architects. Your responsibilities will include:

• Architecting and writing software that leverages SiFive and RISC-V hardware features and integrates with existing operating systems, primarily Linux.
• Authoring and reviewing architecture specifications for new hardware and software features, and planning and executing implementation tasks.
• Guiding the development of RISC-V software and firmware stacks for servers, including platform controller firmware, platform firmware, hypervisors, Linux, and application stacks.
• Engaging with RISC-V software ecosystem organizations to influence external development.
• Participating in the development of RISC-V standards related to servers.
• Driving the adoption and integration of next-generation server extension cards, such as CXL, RDMA, networking, and storage offload, and compute accelerators.
• Planning, estimating, and managing complex software projects.

Requirements

• Experience defining requirements for x86 or ARM servers for hyperscaler use cases.
• Experience with key server requirements including RAS, telemetry, manageability, and I/O offloading.
• Experience with key application workloads, including distributed databases, AI/ML training/inference, agent AI, and high-throughput microservices.
• Experience developing low-level code in C for multiprocessor, multithreaded operating systems like the Linux kernel, BSD kernels, or other high-level operating systems (HLOS).
• Understanding of computer architecture at the CPU and system levels, VLSI design concepts, and their impact on hardware and software architecture.
• Experience writing and reviewing architecture specifications, both for hardware and software.
• Experience with modern desktop and server ecosystems, including PCIe, Device Tree, ACPI, and UEFI.
• Experience with the RISC-V ISA and RISC-V software ecosystem.
• Experience with datacenter Linux distributions such as Debian, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, and SLES.
• Strong communication and project leadership skills, including the ability to develop roadmaps, work breakdowns, and estimates, and drive projects.

Nice to Have

• Experience working with RTL engineers and RTL product lifecycles.
• Experience with C++ or Rust.
• Experience working in global teams and cross-cultural communication.

Pay & Benefits

Pay and benefits are consistent with SiFive values and applicable law. We have a market-based pay structure that varies by location. The base pay range for this role is $231,444.00 - $282,876.00. Variable/Incentive compensation and/or equity may be offered, and the role is eligible for a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, including healthcare and retirement plans, paid time off, and more.