Backend Software Engineer

Software Engineer for SoC Modeling and Runtime Systems The Chips‑IT Foundation is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to support the development and integration of embedded software and modeling frameworks for advanced System‑on‑Chip (SoC) platforms. The role focuses on system‑level modeling, operating system integration (including real‑time OS), deployment of AI workloads, and development of parallel programming frameworks for multi‑core architectures. The position involves working closely with hardware, verification, and application teams to enable full‑stack software support for novel SoC designs. The work can be carried out either in Pavia or in Bologna. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain software models and simulation environments for pre‑silicon SoC validation. Port and configure operating systems (Linux, RTOS) on custom SoC platforms. Design and implement runtime components for task scheduling, memory management, and inter‑core communication. Integrate and optimize deployment flows for neural network inference on custom SoC targets. Support multi‑core programming using frameworks such as OpenMP or MPI. Collaborate with hardware teams to define software/hardware interfaces, drivers, and bootloaders. Assist with the bring‑up of FPGA‑based and silicon prototypes. Contribute to automated build, test, and integration flows for embedded software stacks. Required Qualifications Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. At least 5 years of experience in embedded software development or SoC modeling. Solid knowledge of C/C++ programming, software architecture, and performance optimisation. Experience with operating systems, including Linux kernel and real‑time OS (e.g., FreeRTOS, Zephyr). Hands‑on experience with multi‑core programming (e.g., OpenMP, pthreads). Experience deploying neural networks using frameworks such as TensorFlow Lite, ONNX Runtime, or TVM. Knowledge of SystemC, QEMU, or similar modelling tools is a strong plus. Familiarity with toolchains for RISC‑V or ARM‑based embedded platforms. What we offer Competitive compensation and contract type, to be negotiated based on qualifications and experience. Lunch tickets. Private health care coverage depending on your role and contract. Structured growth path, with ongoing access to training and updates. Networking opportunities with industry‑leading professionals. International environment. Tax deductions: Candidates from abroad, Italian citizens, who have carried scientific research activity abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a taxable income deduction up to 90% for a period of 6 to 13 years. The Foundation “Italian Center for the Design of Semiconductor Integrated Circuits,” also known as the Chips‑IT Foundation, is a non‑profit research and technology organization under the supervision of the Ministries of Industry. The Foundation is Italy's first RTO (Research and Technology Organization) vertically focused on semiconductor research and stands as a center of excellence in frontier research on semiconductor design, as well as a pivotal center of the Italian semiconductor ecosystem and expertise. Missions of the Foundation Promote the design and development of integrated circuits. Strengthen the system of professional training in the field of microelectronics. Ensure the establishment of a network of universities, research centers and enterprises that fosters innovation and technology transfer in the field. Disclaimer No ranking list or list of suitable candidates will be prepared and published. The Foundation reserves the right to: a. extend or reopen the deadline of this notice; b. revoke this notice; c. not make any selection from among the applications submitted if they are deemed not to meet the functions set forth in the notice; without any claims or rights being asserted by the interested parties. #J-18808-Ljbffr