Systems Software Engineer

Quadric is building foundational systems software that connects its GPNPU hardware to a high-level SDK, focusing on the tools developers rely on every day. As a Systems Software Engineer in Burlingame, you will help create and evolve simulator, debugger, loader/toolchain, and C++ host/core interfaces that support ultra-high-performance developer workflows.

This onsite role centers on low-level infrastructure, including architecture validation through simulation, binary execution paths, and debugging backends with deep visibility into core GPNPU execution. You will also contribute to next-generation hardware and software specifications by analyzing execution trade-offs using the Instruction Set Simulator.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and optimize the simulator used for architecture validation and software development.
• Lead design work on a low-level toolchain, covering efficient translation, binary execution (including ELF handling), and code loading.
• Build, enhance, and refine debugging tools and backends that enable low-level inspection of core GPNPU execution.
• Design, maintain, and document clean abstraction layers and public C++ APIs that help users and SDKs interact with the hardware with minimal friction.
• Independently own and expand one or more key components across the systems stack, including Simulator, Loader/Assembler, Debugger, or C++ Host APIs.
• Use insights from the Instruction Set Simulator to influence next-generation GPNPU hardware and software specifications by identifying execution trade-offs.
• Deliver production-ready, low-latency API abstractions and debugging utilities trusted by internal SDK developers and external customers.

Requirements

• 5 years+ experience building systems software such as simulators, toolchains, debuggers, drivers, or performance-critical C++ libraries.
• Deep proficiency with modern C++ (C++17/20) and systems-level programming concepts.
• Advanced understanding of RAII, manual memory management, object lifetimes, ownership models, and memory access optimization.
• Ability to identify, design, and maintain abstraction layers that keep code readable, maintainable, and scalable.
• Proactive, adaptable mindset for tackling challenges specific to a brand-new processor architecture.
• Demonstrated experience working at the boundary of hardware and software, including one or more areas:
  • Building/extending cycle-accurate or functional simulators (for example, Gem5, QEMU, or proprietary tools).
  • Working on debugger internals such as breakpoints, memory inspection, and GDB stubs or remote protocols.
  • Shipping C++ SDKs/libraries that balance “zero-cost” abstractions with intuitive UIs.
  • Writing or maintaining assemblers, linkers, or loaders with deep knowledge of binary formats (ELF) and memory layouts.
  • Writing performance-critical code where every byte and cycle matters (drivers, embedded firmware).
  • Low-level hardware concepts including CPU/NPU pipelines, registers, caches, and silicon-level constraints.
• Experience with CUDA, OpenCL, or Vulkan, including SIMD/SIMT architectures and host-to-device memory transfers.
• Experience with Linux driver development and CMake project configuration best practices.
• Familiarity with Rust for systems safety, including reasoning through multi-threaded logic and complex synchronization.
• Knowledge of integrating functional programming concepts in non-garbage-collected environments.

Technologies

• C++ (C++17, C++20)
• RAII
• ELF, ELF formats
• Gem5, QEMU
• GDB, GDB stubs
• CUDA, OpenCL, Vulkan
• SIMD, SIMT
• Linux driver development
• CMake
• Rust
• Caltrain

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance from day one, with premiums covered at 99% for Employees.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Voluntary supplemental life insurance.
• STD + LTD insurance.
• Commuter support including parking or Caltrain reimbursement (office within walking distance of the Caltrain station).
• FSA + HSA.
• Equity with the business.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan.
• Flexible PTO.
• Winter holiday shutdown.
• Catered lunch each day in the office.
• Downtown Burlingame office location near shops, cafes, and local amenities.
• Collaborative, low-ego culture with significant ownership and impact.
• A work culture focused on innovative disruption.

Location: Burlingame, CA (onsite). Salary: USD 150,000 - 220,000 per yearly.