ASIC Network Architect

SambaNova is a leader in next-generation AI infrastructure, delivering a full-stack inference platform for customers worldwide. At the core of SambaNova's technology is the RDU (Reconfigurable Dataflow Unit) — a chip built on a dataflow architecture rather than the traditional GPU model. Its decode performance is especially strong for agentic workloads like multi-turn agents, code generation, and long-running applications. RDUs are packaged into SambaRack, rack-scale hardware that lets customers deploy state-of-the-art models with better performance, greater energy efficiency, and faster time to value.

About the role

SambaNova Systems is looking for a talented and motivated ASIC Network Architect to help us solve the most challenging and impactful problems in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Responsibilities

Conduct research and development in state of the art networking solutions

Define and own networking architecture specifications for performant, robust, and efficient communications on the next generation super-pod scale ML hardware

Define and own the ML networking roadmap, leading a cross-functional effort across software, systems, and silicon

Work with executive leadership to align network initiatives with product competitiveness requirements

Track and contribute to industry standards, representing SambaNova

Required Qualifications

B.S. Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering

10+ years of industry experience in ML silicon development in GPU, ML accelerator or networking ASIC

Proven track record of successful full-cycle development and delivery from planning to product in networking for such silicon solutions

Track record of ownership and definition of various networking and routing protocols

Deep understanding and hands-on experience defining various networking topologies for large machine clusters.

Deep understanding of congestion management, QoS, security isolation

Deep understanding of networking reliability, availability and serviceability

Capable of abstracting and analyzing network performance from real world application data

Capable of breaking down networking requirements into silicon, packaging, system SW, RunTime and Compiler SW requirements

Strong hands-on analytical and debug skills to make progress on challenging problems in an ambiguous and highly dynamic environment

Strong coding skills with C++, Python, or Rust

Highly motivated, self-driven, independent, organized and strong collaboration and communication skills

Cross-functional team leadership experience

Preferred Qualifications

M.S. or PHD degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering

15+ years of industry experience in ML / supercomputer / public cloud / networking industries

Good understanding of ASIC development cycles

Knowledge of machine learning architecture and/or computer architecture

Experience in building or proficiently using network simulators

Experience in leading silicon, packaging, system HW, system SW cross-functional teams

Experience in conducting perf and perf/tco trade-off analysis on different interconnect choices

Familiarity with off the shelf optical IP and optical switches

Understanding / hands-on experience in end to end optical systems

Hands-on experience in working with IP/Switch hardware vendor to enhance / customize solutions

Base Salary Range:

Base Pay Range $250,000 — $350,000 USD

Submission Guidelines Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at SambaNova Systems, you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified.

EEO Policy SambaNova Systems is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard basis of age (40 and over), color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, and any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Benefits Summary for US-Based, Full-Time Employment Positions SambaNova offers a competitive total rewards package, including the base salary, plus equity and benefits. We cover 95% premium coverage for employee medical insurance, and 77% premium coverage for dependents and offer a Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution. We also offer Dental, Vision, Short/Long term Disability, Basic Life, Voluntary Life, and AD&D insurance plans in addition to Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options like Health Care, Limited Purpose, and Dependent Care. Our library of well-being benefits available to you and your dependents includes a full subscription to Headspace, Gympass+ membership with access to physical gyms, One Medical membership, counseling services with an Employee Assistance Program, and much more.