Senior Performance Engineer at CRUSOE — San Francisco, CA

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled, hands-on Senior level performance engineer who thrives on deep technical challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a mastery of Linux kernel systems and low-level optimization, with a collaborative mindset to drive cross-functional projects. This is a full-time position where you will roll up your sleeves to perform direct performance benchmarking and system tuning, making a tangible impact on Crusoe’s global compute operations.

What You'll Be Working On:

• System Performance Benchmarking: Design and execute rigorous benchmarks to analyze system behavior, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for performance enhancement.
• Kernel Optimization: Develop and implement low-level optimizations within the Linux kernel to maximize efficiency and system throughput.
• Hands-on Development: Write and maintain high-performance code using Go, C, C++, or Rust to drive infrastructure improvements.
• Data Plane Tuning: Focus on data plane performance, ensuring our cloud architecture meets the high-speed requirements of modern AI workloads.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Software Infrastructure, Product, and other engineering teams to align performance initiatives with broader organizational goals.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Actively troubleshoot complex system issues, applying an analytical approach to ensure reliability and scalability.
• Strategic Knowledge Sharing: Contribute to team documentation and best practices, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.

What You'll Bring to the Team:

• Linux Kernel Mastery: Deep expertise in Linux system internals and kernel-level programming is essential for this role.
• Programming Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Go, C, and C++ (Rust is also a strong asset).
• Systems Performance Mindset: A proven track record of hands-on performance tuning, benchmarking, and optimization in complex environments.
• Educational Foundation: A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Collaborative Spirit: Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams, communicating complex technical concepts clearly to stakeholders.
• AI Ecosystem Familiarity: Experience or exposure to the Artificial Intelligence/Cloud ecosystem and standard industry tooling.

Bonus Points:

• Hands-on experience with Rust development.
• Prior experience working in high-scale cloud or infrastructure engineering environments
• Deep familiarity with performance-critical infrastructure components beyond the kernel layer.
• Experience with specific low-level performance analysis and tracing tools.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and equity packages
• Restricted Stock Units
• Paid time off, paid holidays & leave of absence programs
• Comprehensive health, dental & vision insurance
• Employer contributions to HSA account
• Paid parental leave
• Paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• Professional development & tuition reimbursement
• Mental health & wellness support
• Commuter benefits (parking & transit)
• Cell phone stipend
• 401(k) Retirement plan with company match up to 4% of salary
• Volunteer time off
• Global travel insurance & emergency assistance
• Daily meals allowance
• Additional perks & programs specific to location

Compensation Range

Compensation will be paid in the range of up to $170,000 - $205,000. + Bonus. Restricted Stock Units are included in all offers. Compensation to be determined by the applicant's knowledge, education, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.