About the role#
As an intern on the Machine Learning Systems team, you will work at the intersection of machine learning, compiler technology, and AI hardware architecture. You will collaborate with software, firmware, and hardware teams to improve how AI models run on Qualcomm Neural Processing Units (NPUs). This role involves developing production compiler technology and building tools to evaluate future AI architectures. You will gain experience in hardware and software co-design while analyzing performance, power efficiency, and memory usage for workloads like large language models, generative AI, and computer vision.
What you'll do#
- Compile and optimize neural networks for Qualcomm AI accelerators.
- Analyze model performance to improve compiler algorithms, runtime efficiency, and hardware utilization.
- Prototype algorithms to help AI workloads run with high performance and low power consumption.
- Identify compute and memory hierarchy bottlenecks.
- Recommend software and hardware enhancements to improve system performance.
- Contribute to the Qualcomm ML compiler stack.
- Explore and prototype optimization techniques for emerging neural network architectures.
- Analyze ML workloads to guide future hardware and software development.
- Develop performance models and simulation infrastructure using Python, C, and C++.
- Evaluate current and future Qualcomm AI accelerators to predict workload performance.
What you'll need#
- Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Availability for a 16-month internship from May/June 2027 to August/September 2028, with an expected graduation date of November 2028 or later.
- Proficiency in Python or C++.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Detail-oriented approach to complex technical problems.
- Familiarity with object-oriented design principles.
- Experience with software development tools including Git, CI/CD systems, Linux, and SSH.
- Understanding of algorithms and data structures.
- Coursework, research, or project experience in machine learning frameworks like PyTorch, ONNX, TensorFlow, or JAX.
- Knowledge of model optimization, AI accelerator architecture, computer architecture, memory systems, and high-performance computing.
Location & details#
- Location: Markham, Ontario, Canada.
- Duration: 16 months.
- Modality: On-site.
- This is a paid internship.
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm manufactures semiconductors and develops computing technologies. Founded in 1985, the company maintains its headquarters in San Diego. It serves markets including mobile, automotive, and the internet of things. The organization employs more than 10,000 people and operates as a public company.
How to get in at Qualcomm
Applying to Qualcomm early provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications before the volume of candidates becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, which helps you apply among the first. This timing ensures your materials are seen while the team is still actively building their shortlist. Reaching out to the right people often yields better results than submitting through a general portal. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind Qualcomm roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. This approach materially improves your response rates compared to waiting in a queue.
