Lead Software Engineer

Role overview

This Cork-based opportunity is for a Lead Software Engineer focused on C/C++ and LLVM. The salary range is €70,000 to €75,000, along with benefits. You will join a company with more than three decades of expertise in computational software and intelligent system design, serving highly demanding sectors such as consumer electronics, hyperscale computing, 5G, automotive, aerospace, industrial, and healthcare.

The compiler group develops the toolchain behind performance for Xtensa processors. Its work centers on LLVM-based compiler technology, code generation, architecture-specific optimisation, and improving performance for real workloads. The role involves close collaboration with hardware and architecture specialists to support new capabilities and deliver production-ready tools used by major semiconductor and systems organisations.

You will report to the Senior Software Architect.

Key responsibilities

• Build and refine compiler optimisations and features for Xtensa processor architectures.
• Improve code generation, performance tuning, and architecture support throughout the toolchain.
• Work in close coordination with hardware and architecture teams to enable new ISA features and related capabilities.
• Study and optimise practical workloads, including AI, DSP, and computer vision use cases.
• Support and mentor junior engineers while helping shape technical direction and engineering standards.

Required background

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• At least 4 years of experience in compiler development or low-level systems software; both academic and industry experience are acceptable.
• Strong programming ability in C and C++, plus solid debugging and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of compiler internals and related frameworks such as LLVM, GCC, CUDA, or similar tools.
• A strong grasp of computer architecture and performance optimisation principles.

Preferred experience

• Exposure to DSPs, AI/ML workloads, or embedded systems.
• Practical experience with LLVM or GCC backends and optimisation passes.
• Experience collaborating closely with hardware teams or enabling new processor architectures.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• 25 days of annual leave.
• Private medical and dental coverage, income protection, and life insurance.
• Group personal pension plan.
• Cycle-to-work scheme and gym subsidy.
• 5 paid volunteer days each year to support community activities.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• The chance to work for a Great Place to Work and Fortune 100 organisation.

Eligibility

Applicants must be EU or UK citizens, or hold a Stamp 4 visa, as sponsorship is not available for this position.

Contact information

Interested candidates can contact Peter at Software Placements on 086 418 7949 or by email at pgilhooly@softwareplacements.ie. CVs should be sent in Word format.