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.
The Opportunity
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.
What You'll Do
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.
What Success Looks Like
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.
What We're Looking For
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.
What we offer
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity
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
E-Verify and Right to Work Notices
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.
Privacy
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

Work arrangement
No