TPU Kernel Engineer
About this role
The TPU Kernel Engineer position at Anthropic involves tackling complex performance bottlenecks across machine learning systems used for research, training, and inference. Based in San Francisco, CA, New York City, NY, or Seattle, WA, this role is designed for professionals skilled in low-level optimization and large-scale system problem-solving.
Role Overview
As a TPU Kernel Engineer, the primary focus centers on designing and optimizing custom kernels specifically for Tensor Processing Units. Professionals in this position address performance challenges across diverse machine learning workflows while collaborating closely with researchers to evaluate how model adjustments influence overall system speed and efficiency. Team members frequently engage in pair programming and tackle complex projects such as implementing low-latency text sampling, designing custom collective communication protocols, and debugging performance down to the assembly level.
Key Responsibilities
Requirements
Nice to Have
Skills and Tools
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary for this position ranges from $280,000 to $850,000 USD. Anthropic provides competitive compensation alongside benefits including optional equity donation matching, generous paid time off, parental leave, flexible working hours, and visa sponsorship support where applicable.
About the Company
Anthropic operates as a public benefit corporation dedicated to developing reliable, interpretable, and steerable artificial intelligence systems that benefit society. The organization treats artificial intelligence research as an empirical science, functioning as a single cohesive team focused on large-scale initiatives that advance long-term safety and trustworthiness.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit the official Anthropic careers page to submit an application and review open positions.
Questions candidates ask
What locations are available for the TPU Kernel Engineer role?
This position can be performed from San Francisco, CA, New York City, NY, or Seattle, WA, adhering to a hybrid policy requiring at least 25% time in the office.
What is the salary range for this position?
The annual base salary ranges from $280,000 to $850,000 USD.
Does Anthropic offer visa sponsorship for this job?
Yes, visa sponsorship is available, and the company partners with an immigration lawyer to assist candidates who receive an offer.
What are the core technical duties of a TPU Kernel Engineer?
Responsibilities include designing and optimizing TPU kernels, debugging performance issues at the assembly level, building quantitative performance models, and collaborating with researchers.
What education or experience level is required?
Candidates need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, along with a track record in low-level optimization.