Sr Principal C++ Software Engineer

Cadence Open · verified Oct 24, 2026

Burlington Full-time Senior Software Engineering

At a glance

Senior Software Engineering role at Cadence. Burlington · full-time · $140,000–$260,000 base.

SalaryStated by Cadence

$140,000 – $260,000

Base salary for this role, in USD per year, as published in the posting.

RoleSoftware Engineering

SenioritySenior

LocationBurlington

EmploymentFull-time

Base pay$140,000–$260,000

PostedAug 7, 2026 · 2mo ago

Role brief

techroles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

Develop C and C++ software that runs the emulation platform and supports its features
Work with other engineers to define platform capabilities, workflows and interfaces
Document how features should work, how they will be built and how they will be tested
Build tests at unit, integration and system levels for your software
Coordinate with teams across Palladium throughout development

What you bring

A bachelor's degree plus at least ten years of experience, a master's plus seven, or a doctorate plus five
Strong C++ development ability, with STL knowledge and command of data structures, algorithms and performance tradeoffs
Recognized C and C++ programming skills and a willingness to exchange ideas with fellow engineers

Who this fits

This senior engineering role suits an experienced C++ developer who enjoys working through technical ideas with other engineers. The position is based in Burlington, Massachusetts.

From the employer

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

We are looking for a remarkably talented Software Engineer to join the Palladium Software Development team. You will work closely with a small team of exceptional engineers that are heavyweights in Cadence and EDA while developing the next generation Palladium emulation platform. The team brings a unique focus to quality and innovation while designing state-of-the-art Cadence emulation products for use in developing today’s multi-billion gate designs.

Responsibilities

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following;

Writing C/C++ to implement the software and operating environment for the emulation platform and features.
Designing the features, flows, and interfaces for the emulation platforms with other engineers.
Writing functional, implementation, and test specifications for your code and features.
Implementing unit, integration, and system tests for your code and features.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams across all aspects of Palladium

Required Skills and Experience

BS with a minimum of 10 years of experience OR MS with a minimum of 7 years of experience OR PhD with a minimum of 5 years of experience
MUST HAVE STRONG C++ SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCE
You are a distinguished C/C++ / STL programmer among your peers and you love to collaborate about your coding projects and ideas with others.
Experience with latest C++23 features is a plus.
You should be proficient in data structures and algorithm design, complexity and performance tradeoffs.
Experience with Linux kernel and/or device drivers is desirable.
Being comfortable with multi-threading programming and TCP/IP programming is also plus.
Experience with any industry simulation or emulation products are pluses.

The annual salary range for Massachusetts is $140,000 to $260,000. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.