Software Engineer Intern

About Atomic Semi

Atomic Semi is building a small, fast semiconductor fab.

It’s already possible to build this with today’s technology and a few simplifications. We’ll build the tools ourselves so we can quickly iterate and improve.

We’re building a small team of exceptional, hands-on engineers to make this happen. Mechanical, electrical, hardware, computer, and process. We’ll own the stack from atoms to architecture. Our team is optimistic about the future and we want to continue pushing the limits of technology.

Smaller is better. Faster is better. Building it ourselves is better.

We believe our team and lab can build anything. We’ve set up 3D printers, a wide array of microscopes, e-beam writers, general fabrication equipment - and whatever is missing, we’ll just invent along the way.

Atomic was founded by Sam Zeloof and Jim Keller. Sam is best known for making chips in his garage, and Jim has been a leader in the semiconductor industry for the past 40 years.

About the Role

We are seeking a Software Engineering Intern to work on the Fab team for the Summer term. The internship begins in May or June, with the option for preferably a 4 to 8-month commitment. You will build full-stack applications, tools, and infrastructure for a software-defined semiconductor fab.

This is a deeply broad, multi-domain, hands-on role. You’ll work on control of semiconductor fabrication equipment, and data analysis of semiconductor process development. The software you build will help engineers develop and operate the fab. If you’re excited by building complex features from scratch, and learning new domains quickly, this is a great place to grow.

A portfolio or GitHub is generally required to apply: show us the things you’ve built! For us, a good portfolio includes evidence of strong engineering skills and curiosity.

Responsibilities

• Develop frontend + backend, data driven applications to run the fab

• Develop software for sequencing and controlling fab operations

Required Experience

• Pursuing a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or demonstrated exceptional skill in software engineering

• Strong programming skills in Rust and Go or Typescript plus a strong desire to learn

• Solid understanding of systems fundamentals: memory, performance, concurrency

• Experience building non-trivial software projects from scratch (personal, academic, or professional)

• Interest in one or more of the following areas: databases, visualization, data processing pipelines

Nice-to-have

• Experience with interactive software such as Figma, Blender, CAD tools, KiCad, or scientific computing environments

• Familiarity with schema evolution, database migrations, or serialization formats like Protobuf

• Understanding of collaborative or distributed systems (e.g., CRDTs, OT, WebSockets)

• Appreciation for texts such as Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs and Designing Data-Intensive Applications: The Big Ideas Behind Reliable, Scalable, and Maintainable Systems

• Exposure to advanced 2D/3D visualization, simulation, or novel user interfaces

Working at Atomic Semi

We’re an early-stage hardware startup with solid funding, world-class advisors, and a lab/office in San Francisco, CA. Atomic Semi is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. Software Interns are paid an hourly rate equivalent to an annualized range of $110,000-132,000, depending on experience and education level. This range assumes a 40-hour workweek and includes up to 10 hours of pre-approved weekly overtime, paid at 1.5x the base hourly rate. Actual earnings will vary depending on internship length and hours worked.

Internship Benefits:

• Housing Stipend to help with first month expenses

• Lunches daily, Dinners 3x per week, Stocked Office Kitchen with Snacks and Spindrifts

• Weekly Learning & Development opportunities

• Commuter Benefits including Parking and Late Night Uber rides from the office

• Paid Time Off inclusive of Holidays and Sick Time

• Visa Sponsorship

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Life and Disability Insurance

We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability or other legally protected statuses.

Export Control Analysis: This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.