AI Performance Architect, AI Hardware

What To Expect
The Tesla AI Hardware team is at the forefront of revolutionizing artificial intelligence through cutting-edge hardware innovation. Comprising brilliant engineers and visionaries, the team designs and develops advanced AI chips tailored to accelerate Tesla’s machine learning capabilities. Their work powers the neural networks behind Full Self-Driving (FSD), and Tesla humanoid robot, Optimus, pushing the boundaries of computational efficiency and performance. By creating custom silicon and optimized architectures, the team ensures Tesla remains a leader in AI-driven automotive and energy solutions, shaping a future where intelligent machines enhance human life.

As a key member of the Tesla AI hardware team, the AI/ML Performance Architect will drive the design, modeling, and optimization of next-generation tensor compute hardware. This role requires a deep expertise in computer architecture, a thorough understanding of AI workloads, and proven proficiency in performance modeling and optimization. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced environments, delivering elegant, high-performance solutions that push the boundaries of AI hardware efficiency.

What You'll Do

Collaborate closely with system architects, micro architects, ML model designers, and compiler engineers to create highly efficient hardware designs on accelerated timelines

Develop and validate sophisticated performance models to evaluate architecture and microarchitecture tradeoffs, guiding informed decision-making

Define comprehensive workload suites and key performance metrics to benchmark and evaluate hardware capabilities

Analyze and assess implementations of machine learning algorithms on Tesla AI hardware, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement

Participate in hardware/software co-design efforts to align future hardware capabilities with evolving algorithmic demands

Contribute to code reviews, testing, and debugging processes to maintain exceptional code quality and reliability

Stay abreast of cutting-edge advancements in AI workloads, domain-specific languages, computer architecture, and simulation methodologies to inform strategic directions

What You'll Bring

Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience demonstrating exceptional ability

In-depth knowledge of Large Language Models (LLMs), transformer architectures, including their training, inference processes, and optimization techniques

Strong expertise in CPU, GPU, and/or ML accelerator microarchitectures, with hands-on experience in performance characterization

Proficiency with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch, JAX, Pallas, or similar tools

Robust programming skills in C/C , Python, or other relevant languages

Solid understanding of physical design constraints, including power, performance, and area (PPA) tradeoffs in hardware development

Exceptional problem-solving abilities, capable of dissecting complex issues and devising innovative, practical solutions

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, fostering effective collaboration across teams, including leadership and engineering stakeholders

Demonstrated experience in performance analysis, including the use of simulation frameworks and profiling tools

Ability to work on-site at Tesla’s Palo Alto office, with flexibility for hybrid arrangements as needed

Benefits
Compensation and Benefits
Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction

Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits

Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution

Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA

Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits

Company paid Basic Life, AD&D

Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)

Employee Assistance Program

Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid Holidays

Back-up childcare and parenting support resources

Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance

Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs

Tesla Babies program

Commuter benefits

Employee discounts and perks program

Expected Compensation

$124,000 - $282,000/annual salary cash and stock awards benefits

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

, Tesla