Staff Software Engineer - Platform Debug

We are seeking a skilled Software Platform Debug Engineer to design, develop, and debug low-level software that enables and supports debug visibility on high-performance server platforms. These debug features include both dynamic debug (eg, peek/poke) and post-mortem (crash) capabilities. In this role, you will work close to the hardware/software boundary, solving complex system-level issues across firmware, operating systems, platform software, and host tooling. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable solutions that meet demanding performance and reliability requirements. Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain software to support debug functionality across multiple system layers
• Troubleshoot and resolve highly complex software defects across integrated components
• Analyze system behavior by gathering and correlating information across modules, subsystems, and interfaces
• Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and software teams to identify root causes and deliver effective fixes
• Communicate progress, risks, and mitigation strategies clearly to project leads and stakeholders
• Identify design or implementation gaps and proactively drive solutions
• Contribute technical input and solution strategies during design and debug reviews
• Develop and execute unit and integration tests to ensure stability and functional correctness
• Perform thorough code reviews and provide constructive technical feedback
• Manage priorities, timelines, and deliverables for small- to medium-sized initiatives

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• Master’s degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience
• 2+ years of work experience with programming languages such as C, C+, Java, Python, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience building software stacks for high-performance systems
• 5+ years of experience in debug software development (tools, firmware, applications)
• Master’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering
• 10+ years of experience building and debugging software for high-performance platforms
• Experience with ARM debug architectures or frameworks

Technical Skills & Expertise

• Experience designing and/or supporting debug capabilities in complex SoCs and high-performance CPU architectures, including:
• JTAG debug and tooling
• High-performance trace
• System crash analysis
• Strong understanding of computer architecture, including:
• High-performance server designs
• Hardware/software interfaces
• Proficiency in C and assembly language
• Systems programming experience using Python or similar languages
• Familiarity with modern build systems and distributed version control workflows
• Experience developing and debugging:
• Platform and system software
• Firmware and boot software
• Debug and diagnostic tools

Level of Responsibility

• Autonomy: Operates independently with minimal supervision
• Communication: Conveys complex technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences, including senior leadership
• Influence: Provides technical input that impacts key architectural and organizational decisions
• Execution: Manages multi-step, high-complexity tasks with strong attention to detail
• Innovation: Applies creativity and technical judgment to develop new approaches and solutions
• Problem Solving: Uses advanced analytical reasoning to diagnose and resolve complex system issues

Pay range: $151,900.00 - $227,900.00. In addition to a competitive base salary, the role includes an annual discretionary bonus program and potential annual RSU grants. Qualcomm offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your success at work, at home, and in your community. Location Santa Clara, CA, United States of America Industry IT Category Executive Rate $151,900 - $227,900 Company Qualcomm