Staff Software Engineer – Developer Tooling

Job Title Staff Software Engineer – Developer Tooling Job Description Staff Software Engineer – Developer Tooling 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 an experienced 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 • 6+ years of software engineering experience, with 4+ years in desktop application development (Electron, VS Code extensions, or similar IDE frameworks). • Strong proficiency in TypeScript, JavaScript, React, and ES6+. • 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 (GitHub, 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.

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