Software Engineer, Backend Developer

Staff Software Engineer At Cognichip, we are building the next-generation IDE to empower semiconductor design engineers with a 10x productivity boost through AI-native workflows and seamless integration with high-performance simulation engines. We are seeking a Staff Software Engineer with expertise in desktop application development (especially Electron/VS Code extensions) to join our IDE team. Unlike traditional web roles, this position focuses on developing and extending a VS Code–based IDE, creating deep integrations with AI, collaborative editing features, and advanced visualizations tailored for semiconductor design workflows.

Core Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain VS Code extensions and Electron-based IDE features for the Cognichip platform.
• Develop advanced IDE features such as AI-assisted coding, linting, collaborative editing, syntax highlighting, and domain-specific visualizations.
• Integrate the IDE with backend microservices and APIs, ensuring seamless performance across distributed environments.
• Build and optimize cross-platform desktop experiences (Windows, macOS, Linux).
• Collaborate closely with designers to implement polished, intuitive UI/UX patterns inside the IDE.
• Contribute to performance profiling, debugging, and optimizations to ensure a responsive and reliable user experience.

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of software engineering experience, with 4+ years in desktop application development (Electron, VS Code extensions, or similar IDE frameworks).
• Experience developing VS Code extensions or other plugin-based IDE architectures.
• Solid understanding of state management (e.g., Redux, Zustand) and component-driven UI frameworks.
• Knowledge of cross-platform application design (Windows, macOS, Linux).
• Familiarity with performance profiling and optimization in IDE or desktop applications.
• Experience with version control and CI/CD workflows (Git Hub, Jenkins, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to LLMs, AI-driven developer tools, or intelligent assistants inside IDEs.
• Knowledge of Electron internals and packaging/distribution of desktop applications.
• Experience with language parsers, syntax highlighting, lexical analysis, and editor/IDE UX patterns.
• Experience implementing authentication, permissions, and role-based access in desktop apps.
• Familiarity with semiconductor design tools or EDA workflows.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to shape the Cognichip IDE, a flagship product at the intersection of AI, semiconductor design, and developer productivity.
• Competitive compensation package including equity.
• Work alongside world-class engineers, scientists, and product designers.
• Collaborative and innovative startup culture where your impact is direct and visible

Location:

Redwood City, CA, US

Salary: 195,000–230,000 USD / year

Job Title

Staff Software Engineer