Software Engineer - Hardware Diagnostics - New Grad

Nexthop Systems Inc • Santa Clara, CA

11h

About The Position

As a cutting-edge AI infrastructure startup, we are building high-performance systems that power next-generation, large-scale AI deployments. Our team brings together industry veterans and passionate innovators who thrive in a fast-paced environment, tackling complex technical challenges at the boundary of hardware and software. We are looking for inquisitive software engineers eager to bridge the gap between software platform architecture and physical hardware. Operating as a vital group within our software organization, our team rapidly iterates to validate hardware—from early prototype bring-up to full datacenter deployment—using an industry-leading software framework. Strong problem-solving skills, rapid adaptability, and enthusiasm for collaborative engineering are at the core of what we value.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related field
• Proficiency in Python, C
• Solid understanding of systems software, including embedded systems and distributed systems
• Familiarity with schematics/component datasheets
• Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team
• Confidence to both ask questions and take ownership of your projects

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with L2 networking protocols is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and write platform driver code across kernel and user space to model, stress, and verify hardware performance.
• Drive architectural decisions for our platform software in a highly collaborative setting.
• Partner cross-functionally with hardware, software, and mechanical engineering teams to build custom test suites for complex designs.
• Engage in end-to-end system enablement, progressing from prototype bring-up to large-scale AI datacenter deployments.
• Help shape our startup culture—take ownership, challenge existing paradigms, and contribute directly to the future of our tech stack.

Benefits

• Direct 1:1 mentorship from industry veterans passionate about accelerating your early-career technical growth.
• High ownership of high-impact projects tailored to your interests and expertise, with immediate visibility and impact across teams.
• A supportive, highly collaborative culture that encourages continuous learning, curiosity, and creative problem-solving.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level