AI Kernel Engineer Intern

Quadric is redefining edge AI with the industry's first General Purpose Neural Processing Unit (GPNPU), enabling developers to run both neural network inference and conventional C++ code on a single programmable architecture. Our technology powers intelligent edge devices across automotive, industrial, robotics, and embedded systems.

Founded in 2016 and based in downtown Burlingame, California, Quadric is building the world's first supercomputer designed for the real-time needs of edge devices. Quadric aims to empower developers in every industry with superpowers to create tomorrow's technology, today. The company was co-founded by technologists from MIT and Carnegie Mellon, who were previously the technical co-founders of the Bitcoin computing company 21.

As a AI Kernel Engineer Intern , you will work closely with our senior AI Kernel Engineers to help enable a variety of AI/LLM models to run efficiently on the Quadric platform. This is a hands-on role where you will dive deep into hardware architecture and optimization techniques. You will gain invaluable experience developing, profiling, and optimizing kernel code, directly contributing to the performance of our AI inference stack.

Note: Our preference is for this internship to be based out of our Burlingame, California office. Candidates should be based in the Bay Area or able to relocate for the internship period and available to work on site.

Develop & Implement

• Assist in developing AI/LLM kernels and operators on the Quadric platform for efficient inference.

Analyze & Profile

• Help profile kernel performance across compute, data, and parallelism to identify micro-architecture and software bottlenecks.

Code Optimization

• Work alongside senior engineers to optimize C/C++ code to maximize hardware utilization for different workloads.

Collaborate

• Partner across related areas of the AI inference stack to support team priorities and business goals.

Toolchain Contribution

• Contribute to improvements in the Quadric toolchain, compiler, and runtime.

Within your internship, you'll:

• Build a working understanding of kernel development and optimization for a GPNPU-class architecture.

• Contribute kernel or operator work that meaningfully improves AI inference performance.

• Develop hands-on fluency with performance profiling and hardware-aware code optimization.

Required

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• Strong proficiency in C/C++ and Python.

• Solid foundational understanding of computer architecture and hardware-software interaction.

• Demonstrated capability in problem-solving, debugging, and clear technical communication.

Preferred

• Academic or project experience with model and kernel inference performance profiling.

• Exposure to or experience with compute development frameworks such as CUDA, DSP, NEON, or Triton-lang.

• Familiarity with assembly language.

• Previous internship experience in a hardware-oriented software role or AI/ML optimization.

The hourly salary range for this temporary position is $50-57/hr . This range reflects the full span of levels and geographies at which Quadric hires for this role. The actual hourly salary offered will depend on a number of factors, including the specific level of the role, years and depth of relevant experience, technical skills and competencies.

Quadric interns receive hands-on experience working alongside industry experts in AI and semiconductor technology, with access to mentorship and meaningful project ownership from day one along with following

• Catered lunch each day in our office

• Downtown Burlingame office location, close to shops, cafes, and local amenities

• A work culture focused on innovative disruption

If this role resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if your experience does not perfectly match every qualification. We value potential, curiosity, and a willingness to learn just as much as direct experience.

Quadric is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law

Quadric participates in the E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility for U.S.-based roles. As part of this process, applicants may review the following notices, which explain your rights and our participation in E-Verify. These notices are provided in English and Spanish.

• E-Verify Participation Notice (English | Spanish)

• Right to Work Notice (English | Spanish)

No action is required from candidates during the application process. These notices are provided for informational purposes only.

By submitting an application, you acknowledge that Quadric will collect and process your personal information as part of the hiring process. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we handle your data