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.

• 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 trade‑offs, 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.

• 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) trade‑offs 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.

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 with options with a $0 paycheck contribution.
• Company‑paid Health Savings Account (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…