Applied Machine Learning Engineer - AI for VLSI Design
NVIDIA is hiring an Applied Machine Learning Engineer - AI for VLSI Design in Santa Clara, United States. It pays $152k-$230k a year and Level rates it ; you can apply on NVIDIA.
Level's read on this job
- Level rates this machine learning engineer role Builds AI ●●●●: the job is building AI systems.
- Tools and skills the posting cites include AI agents.
- Level classifies it as a mid-level role.
- Level lists 2,600+ other open roles at NVIDIA.
AI in this role
NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It’s a unique legacy of innovation that’s fueled by great technology—and amazing people. Today, we’re tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what’s never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world’s best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you’ll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.
Our team builds AI-driven software systems for Circuit Design: combining automation algorithms, DL models and agentic workflows to accelerate end-to-end design automation. Come join this integral team in our Circuit Solutions Group!
What you'll be doing:
Work within a multi-functional team on various projects involving Pre-silicon and Post Silicon custom circuit design and related data, Circuit/Layout Optimization and Spice correlation
Research and implement techniques on frontier solutions of electronic design automation.
Build and innovate agentic AI solution for VLSI design problem.
Responsible for analyzing the problem or datasets, raise and validate hypotheses, design and build models and algorithm until they reach the desired QOR.
What we need to see:
MS (or equivalent experience) with 3+ years’ experience or PhD with 1+ years’ experience in Electrical/Computer Engineering degree
Experience in the following fields is a strict requirement for this role: Combinatorial Optimization, Agentic AI and large language models, Machine Learning for Chip Design & EDA
Experience in Algorithms/Data Structures/Applied Math/Machine Learning/Software programming with proven ability in writing code in Python, C++ is required.
Experience in Applied Math/Machine Learning/Software programming with proven ability in writing code in Python, C++ is required
Ways to stand out from the crowd:
Prior experience in large-scale EDA software development is a plus.
Prior experience in CMOS layout drawing, including schematic-to-layout translation and DRC/LVS compliance, is a definite plus
Enjoy working with multiple levels and teams across organizations (engineering/research, product, sales and marketing teams)
Effective verbal/written communication, and technical presentation skills
Self-starter with passion for growth, real enthusiasm for continuous learning and sharing findings across the team
NVIDIA is a pioneer in bringing groundbreaking technology to new markets. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working with us. If you're creative and autonomous, we want to hear from you!
#LI-Hybrid
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and other objective job-related factors. The expected base salary ranges for this position are:152,000 USD – 230,000 USD for Level 3; and 168,000 USD – 264,500 USD for Level 4.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until November 3, 2026.This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive 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.How we rate this
Applied Machine Learning Engineer - AI for VLSI Design at NVIDIA rates 86 out of 100 for how much of the daily work is AI. That makes it Builds AI (AI Level 4 of 4). The level is about AI in the job, not seniority.
Builds AI. The job is building AI systems.
- ●●●● Builds AI80 to 100
- ●●●○ Works on AI60 to 79
- ●●○○ Uses AI40 to 59
- ●○○○ Little AI0 to 39
Levels come from how often the tools, models and workflows of the role are named in the posting itself. Read the description and count the AI tools, models and workflows it names.
Prepare for this job
Built from this posting and from similar jobs on Level.
Skills and AI tools this role asks for
Also common in machine learning engineer jobs at this level
Pay
- This job starts at
- $152k
- Typical machine learning engineer job
- $200k
This posting starts 24% below the typical machine learning engineer job. See machine learning engineer jobs
Questions you could be asked
- How do you decide when an AI agent can act on its own versus asking for approval first?
- How would you decide a model or AI system is ready to ship?
- Tell me about a time a model underperformed in production. How did you find out, and what did you change?
Adapt your resume
- List these exact terms on your resume: AI agents. An applicant tracking system matches the wording, not the idea.
- Attach one line of real, concrete experience to at least one of them. A tool named with nothing behind it rarely survives a human read.
- Lead with what you built, trained or shipped. This role is judged on the AI system itself, not the tools around it.
Want an expert to read your CV for this job?
Free. Send your CV and the role you want next. You get your review by email within 24 hours.
Get new machine learning engineer jobs (Builds AI ●●●●) by email
One email a week with the new machine learning engineer jobs (Builds AI ●●●●), each rated for how much AI is in the work. No recruiter spam, unsubscribe in one click.
Free. One email a week. Unsubscribe in one click.
Similar roles
Data roles that build AI, at other companies.
What kind of AI work fits you?
Answer 12 practical questions in about three minutes. Get a simple profile, the work it points to, and live roles to explore next.
Find my next step