Intern, ML Compiler (Kernel Auto-Tuning)

Samsung Semiconductor

Posted about 9 hours ago

Internship

San Jose, California

Hybrid

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

You will design and implement a cost-model-guided auto-tuning framework for PyTorch and Triton kernels on a compute-near-memory AI accelerator. This involves developing kernel cost models, building benchmarking harnesses, and integrating the tuner with compiler paths to optimize LLM inference performance.

Qualifications

You are pursuing a Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering, with a strong foundation in Python and C++. You have experience with Triton kernels or PyTorch compiler internals and a grounding in compilers or performance engineering.

Must Have Skills for ATS

Python

C++

Triton kernels

PyTorch compiler internals

torch.compile

FX

Inductor

compilers

performance engineering

IR

passes

cost models

roofline analysis

profiling

auto-tuning

auto-sharding

Bayesian optimisation

ILP

MLIR

LLVM

scratchpad architectures

near-memory architectures

LLM inference kernels

Job Description

Please Note:

To provide the best candidate experience amidst our high application volumes, each candidate is limited to 10 applications across all open jobs within a 6-month period. 

Advancing the World’s Technology Together

Our technology solutions power the tools you use every day--including smartphones, electric vehicles, hyperscale data centers, IoT devices, and so much more. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to be part of a global leader whose innovative designs are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and powering the future. 

We believe innovation and growth are driven by an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We’re dedicated to empowering people to be their true selves. Together, we’re building a better tomorrow for our employees, customers, partners, and communities.

What You'll Learn

  • Project Overview: Build a cost-model-guided auto-tuning framework for PyTorch and Triton kernels on Samsung’s compute-near-memory AI accelerator, and make it placement-aware, so that each kernel is tuned for where its data lives. You’ll connect it to torch.compile and measure the gains on LLM inference.
  • Skills You’ll Learn:
    • Performance optimisation for a cache-less, DMA-driven accelerator: search spaces, legality rules and cost models
    • PyTorch compiler internals (torch.compile, FX, Inductor autotuning) and Triton kernel compilation
    • Benchmarking and profiling LLM inference kernels (GEMM, attention) on simulators and hardware

What You’ll Do

Our ML Compiler team builds the software that runs PyTorch models on Samsung’s compute-near-memory AI accelerator: a PyTorch device and compiler backend, a Triton-based kernel compiler and an LLVM back end. We work closely with the runtime and hardware teams and with the PyTorch and Triton open-source communities. Over the summer you’ll own one piece of making ordinary PyTorch models fast on new memory-centric hardware, from research idea to merged, measured code.

Location: Daily onsite presence at our San Jose Headquarters in alignment with our Flexible Work policy

Reports to: Director

  • Design a search space for Triton kernel configurations on the accelerator: tile sizes, launch-grid mapping, on-chip buffer budgets and load style.
  • Build legality rules with our compiler engineers that prune configurations that will not compile or will not fit in on-chip memory.
  • Develop a kernel cost model, calibrated against our simulator and profiler, that ranks candidates so only the most promising are benchmarked.
  • Build a reliable benchmarking harness and a persistent tuning cache, so that tuning cost stays practical.
  • Integrate the tuner with the torch.compile Inductor autotuning path and with Triton’s autotuner.
  • Extend tuning to data placement: tune kernels for a given tensor layout and export tuned costs that a placement pass can use.
  • Measure kernel-level and end-to-end LLM inference gains, and share results in weekly syncs and a final presentation.
  • Collaborate with PyTorch and Triton developers on upstream autotuning hooks, and hand off documented, tested code.
  • Complete other responsibilities as assigned.

What You Bring

  • Pursuing a Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering; PhD preferred.
  • Must have at least 1 academic quarter/semester remaining
  • Strong Python and C++, with experience writing or tuning Triton kernels or working with PyTorch compiler internals (torch.compile, FX, Inductor).
  • Grounding in compilers or performance engineering: IR and passes, cost models, roofline analysis and profiling.
  • Preferred: auto-tuning or auto-sharding experience (e.g. TVM/Ansor, the Halide autoscheduler, Kernel Tuner, Alpa, GSPMD), or search methods such as Bayesian optimisation or ILP.
  • Preferred: MLIR/LLVM back ends, scratchpad or near-memory architectures, LLM inference kernels, or publications or open-source PyTorch/Triton contributions.
  • You’re inclusive, adapting your style to the situation and diverse global norms of our people.
  • An avid learner, you approach challenges with curiosity and resilience, seeking data to help build understanding.
  • You’re collaborative, building relationships, humbly offering support and openly welcoming approaches.
  • Innovative and creative, you proactively explore new ideas and adapt quickly to change.

#LI-AD1

What We Offer
The pay range below is for all roles at this level across all US locations and functions. Pay within this range varies by work location and may also depend on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

This is in addition to our diverse package of benefits centered around the wellbeing of our employees and their loved ones. In addition to the usual Medical/Dental/Vision, our inclusive rewards plan empowers our people to care for their whole selves. An investment in your future is an investment in ours.

Relocation Support Live 50+ miles away from your new office? No worries! We'll provide a stipend to help support your move.
Housing Stipend
Signing a lease on a new place for your summer internship? We'll help you pay your way with a monthly stipend.
Give Back
With a charitable giving match and frequent opportunities to get involved, we take an active role in supporting the community.
Prioritize Emotional Wellness
With on-demand apps and paid therapy sessions, you’ll have support no matter where you are.
Stay Fit
Eating well and being active are important parts of a healthy life. Our onsite Café and gym, plus virtual classes, make it easier.
Embrace Flexibility
Benefits are best when you have the space to use them. That’s why we facilitate a flexible environment so you can find the right balance for you.

Hourly Base Pay Rate$28—$68 USD

Equal Opportunity Employment Policy 

Samsung Semiconductor takes pride in being an equal opportunity workplace dedicated to fostering an environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered to excel, regardless of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, or veteran status.

When selecting team members, we prioritize talent and qualities such as humility, kindness, and dedication. We extend comprehensive accommodations throughout our recruiting processes for candidates with disabilities, long-term conditions, neurodivergent individuals, or those requiring pregnancy-related support. All candidates scheduled for an interview will receive guidance on requesting accommodations.

Our Commitment to Innovation and Fairness

At Samsung Semiconductor, we use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the recruitment process to enhance efficiency. However, AI is used as a support tool, not a final decision-maker. All hiring decisions are made by our human recruiting team and hiring managers to ensure every candidate is evaluated fairly and holistically.

Recruiting Agency Policy

We do not accept unsolicited resumes. Only authorized recruitment agencies that have a current and valid agreement with Samsung Semiconductor, Inc. are permitted to submit resumes for any job openings.

Applicant AI Use Policy 

At Samsung Semiconductor, we support innovation and technology. However, to ensure a fair and authentic assessment, we ask that candidates rely on their own knowledge and skills throughout the process. AI tools may be used for basic preparation, grammar, and research, but should not be used to generate or assist with submitted content or live interview responses. If we determine that AI is being used outside these guidelines, we reserve the right to pause or end the interview, and your candidacy may be disqualified.

Trade Secret Notice

By submitting an application, you agree not to disclose to Samsung—or encourage Samsung to use—any confidential or proprietary information (including trade secrets) belonging to a current or former employer or other entity.

Applicant Privacy Policy
https://semiconductor.samsung.com/about-us/careers/us/privacy/

Samsung Semiconductor

Established in 1974 as a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, we’re proud to be recognized as one of the leading chip manufacturers in the world. Using our knowledge in semiconductor technology, our ambition is to spark the imagination of device manufacturers with top-of-the-line building blocks and, through that, enrich the lives of people around the world with transformative solutions.
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