Director of System Software

Director of System Software – Datacenter AI Hardware

Acceler8 Talent is exclusively partnered with a well-funded AI hardware startup, backed by world-class investors, to help them find a Director of System Software.

Founded by engineers that were instrumental in Google's AI capabilities, this team is building the next-generation compute platform for companies building and running GenAI models.

As the Director of Software, you’ll join a highly skilled engineering group at the forefront of silicon and system design, leading the development of compilers, kernels, and runtime software that bring cutting-edge hardware to life.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the whole system software organization, overseeing compiler, kernel, and runtime teams supporting next-generation datacenter-scale AI hardware.
• Define and execute the roadmap for software enablement, from low-level drivers and kernels to domain-specific compilers that unlock performance across large-scale GenAI models.
• Partner closely with hardware architects and RTL engineers to co-design hardware/software interfaces, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and developer usability.
• Build and mentor a world-class software engineering team, fostering a culture of technical excellence and execution.
• Drive integration of system software into emulation, bring-up, and production flows, enabling robust silicon validation and customer deployment.
• Represent the software strategy in executive planning, product roadmaps, and customer engagements.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven leadership experience building and scaling system software teams, ideally in datacenter, AI/ML, or high-performance compute domains.
• Deep expertise in compiler design, kernel development, or runtime systems for accelerators, CPUs, GPUs, or NPUs.
• Strong background in C/C++ and Python, with hands-on understanding of modern compiler toolchains (LLVM, MLIR, GCC) and kernel development (Linux, custom RTOS, or similar).
• Track record of delivering production software that integrates tightly with silicon, from bring-up through customer deployment.
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to bridge between hardware, architecture, and end-user software needs.

Why Join?

• Join a well-funded, fast-growing startup shaping the future of GenAI compute.
• Work alongside industry-leading architects, engineers, and system builders.
• Hybrid role based in Mountain View, CA (3 days on-site).
• Immediate start available.

If you’re interested, apply here or reach out directly to Luke at ltomaszko@acceler8talent.com to learn more.