Safety Software Lead / Architect / Manager

Quadric has created an innovative general purpose neural processing unit (GPNPU) architecture. Quadric's co-optimized software and hardware is targeted to run neural network (NN) inference workloads in a wide variety of edge and endpoint devices, ranging from battery operated smart-sensor systems to high-performance automotive or autonomous vehicle systems. Unlike other NPUs or neural network accelerators in the industry today that can only accelerate a portion of a machine learning graph, the Quadric GPNPU executes both NN graph code and conventional C++ DSP and control code.

Quadric is building a new generation of high-performance NPU architectures for the edge. We are looking for an experienced Safety Software Lead to drive the end-to-end ISO 26262 functional safety certification for our unified software stack. This critical role involves ensuring that our entire compiler and SDK chain—including TVM, LLVM backends, and our core SDK—meets the highest automotive safety standards.

Our preference is for a candidate located in the California Bay Area who can regularly collaborate from our Burlingame office. This role follows a hybrid schedule with two or more days in-office per week. We will also consider highly qualified candidates based elsewhere in the United States who have demonstrated success working in a fully remote environment and can operate effectively with distributed teams.

From time to time, the team and company gather for onsite meetings and offsite events. These in-person moments are an important part of how we build relationships, collaborate effectively, and align on priorities, and participation is expected for all team members, including those working remotely.

Responsibilities

• Drive End-to-End Certification: Lead the end-to-end software functional safety process for Quadric’s NPU software stack according to ISO 26262.
• Compiler Safety: Ensure the safety-critical compliance of our AI compiler stack, specifically targeting TVM and LLVM backends used for NPU code generation.
• Process Setup: Define and implement software development processes, including MISRA-C/C++ compliance, unit testing, and automated traceability from requirements to design and test cases.
• Documentation: Generate and maintain essential safety artifacts, including Safety Manuals, Cybersecurity Capability Reports, and Traceability Matrices using tools like JIRA/Github.
• Tool Qualification: Oversee the qualification of software tools used within the SDK and compiler environment to ensure they meet automotive safety requirements.
• Customer Support: Collaborate with OEM/Tier-1 automotive customers to align on safety requirements and provide documentation for their system-level certifications.

Requirements

• Expertise in ISO 26262: Proven track record of leading software safety certification for complex semiconductor products, preferably NPUs, GPUs, or high-performance CPUs.
• Compiler Knowledge: Deep understanding of AI compiler stacks, specifically TVM and LLVM; experience with MLIR or OpenXLA is a significant plus.
• Automotive Standards: Strong familiarity with related standards such as ISO 21434 (Cybersecurity), ASPICE, and AUTOSAR.
• SW Development: Experience with system-level software including drivers, firmware, and bare-metal runtimes for AI accelerators.
• Security & Compliance: Proficiency in implementing security solutions and generating safety-certified stacks for automotive and industrial applications.
• Bachelors in Computer Science, or related field, with a minimum of eight years of experience in the industry. Masters or PhD preferred.

Benefits

At Quadric, we value Integrity, Humility, and Happiness. We are a collaborative team focused on initiative and completion, working together to build something extraordinary in the edge computing space. 

• Competitive salary and meaningful equity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Flexible paid time off (unlimited, non-accrual) to support work-life balance
• When working in-office, enjoy company-provided lunches and a stocked kitchen
• Convenient office location within walking distance of the Caltrain station
• Support for commuting, including monthly parking or Caltrain passes
• Downtown Burlingame office location, close to shops, cafes, and local amenities
• A politics-free, highly collaborative environment where talented people can do their best work and make an immediate impact
• The opportunity to build long-term career relationships in a company that values strong personal connections alongside professional excellence