Principal Engineer - System Software GPU Server

US, CA, Santa Clara Until 8/23/2026 15+ years exp First posted May 27, 2026 Last posted May 27, 2026
Job description

We are seeking software engineers to work on next-generation high-speed interconnect technologies. Our charter is to develop the most demanding high-speed IO applications a GPU or high-performance computing server will encounter in its lifecycle, by collaborating closely with silicon architects, board/rack level designers, and platform software experts to support innovation in factories and data centers. The best candidates will have strong C++ programming skills, detailed knowledge of networking concepts, algorithms, a solid foundation of systems software with emphasis on OS fundamentals, and a deep understanding of current generation hardware architecture at systems level. Excellent communication skills and a dedication to meticulous engineering practices are a requirement.

We also work closely with manufacturing teams in optimizing NVIDIA and customer production line to screen out defects.

What you'll be doing:

  • Working closely with architecture, hardware and driver teams through the product development lifecycle of computing and graphics processors, as well as compute products.

  • Responsible for crafting software tools and infrastructure required for new chip development, validation, and productization.

  • You will assess new hardware features and architect diagnostic software using debug CUDA/kernel driver features

  • This job will require an understanding of our hardware and software architectures.

What we need to see:

  • BS or MS degree in one of the areas of Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or equivalent experience

  • 15+ years experience in a related hardware/software position

  • Strong C/C++ programming skills

  • Familiarity with computer architecture, and ability to work close to the hardware

  • Background with PCIE, NVLink or server IO technologies like Infiniband, Ethernet is a plus

  • Previous experience of working on a large system software code base is preferable

  • Very strong problem solving and debugging skills

  • Ability to self-manage, show leadership, and have good interpersonal skills

  • Capability to use AI prompt tools

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until May 22, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy. 

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

About this role

Summary

Develop high-speed IO applications, diagnose hardware, collaborate with architecture, software, and manufacturing teams.

Job title

Principal Engineer - System Software GPU Server

Experience level

15+ years

Minimum experience

15+ years exp

Industry

software

Location requirements

US, CA, Santa Clara; remote not specified

Salary

$272k–$431k

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

C++networkingsystems softwareOS fundamentalshardware architectureproblem solvingdebugging

Preferred skills

PCIeNVLinkInfinibandEthernetlarge system software

Specializations

GPUhigh-speed IOsystems softwarehardware architecturenetworking
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Santa Clara, CA, USA

Work arrangement unknown City