Job Specifications
Company
Qualcomm Canada ULC
Job Area
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering
General Summary
We are seeking a skilled Software Platform Debug Engineer to design, develop, and debug low‑level software that enables and supports debug visibility on high‑performance server platforms. These debug features include both dynamic debug (e.g., peek/poke) and post‑mortem (crash) capabilities. In this role, you will work close to the hardware/software boundary, solving complex system‑level issues across firmware, operating systems, platform software, and host tooling. You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver robust, scalable solutions that meet demanding performance and reliability requirements.
This position is suitable for Senior‑ or Staff‑level engineers who demonstrate strong technical ownership, deep systems knowledge, and the ability to influence technical direction. This is a replacement headcount.
Responsibilities
Design, develop, and maintain software to support debug functionality across multiple system layers
Troubleshoot and resolve highly complex software defects across integrated components
Analyze system behavior by gathering and correlating information across modules, subsystems, and interfaces
Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and software teams to identify root causes and deliver effective fixes
Communicate progress, risks, and mitigation strategies clearly to project leads and stakeholders
Identify design or implementation gaps and proactively drive solutions
Contribute technical input and solution strategies during design and debug reviews
Develop and execute unit and integration tests to ensure stability and functional correctness
Perform thorough code reviews and provide constructive technical feedback
Manage priorities, timelines, and deliverables for small‑ to medium‑sized initiatives
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
2+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
5+ years of experience building software stacks for high‑performance systems
5+ years of experience in debug software development (tools, firmware, applications)
Master’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering
10+ years of experience building and debugging software for high‑performance platforms
Experience with ARM debug architectures or frameworks
Technical Skills & Expertise
Experience designing and/or supporting debug capabilities in complex SoCs and high‑performance CPU architectures, including:
JTAG debug and tooling
High‑performance trace
System crash analysis
Strong understanding of computer architecture, including:
High‑performance server designs
Hardware/software interfaces
Proficiency in C and assembly language
Systems programming experience using Python or similar languages
Familiarity with modern build systems and distributed version control workflows
Experience developing and debugging:
Platform and system software
Firmware and boot software
Debug and diagnostic tools
Level of Responsibility
Autonomy: Operates independently with minimal supervision
Communication: Conveys complex technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences, including senior leadership
Influence: Provides technical input that impacts key architectural and organizational decisions
Execution: Manages multi‑step, high‑complexity tasks with strong attention to detail
Innovation: Applies creativity and technical judgment to develop new approaches and solutions
Problem Solving: Uses advanced analytical reasoning to diagnose and resolve complex system issues
Applicants: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
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