What it does: AMD Canada develops computer processors for AI, business computing, and gaming for businesses and consumer markets.
Mission: AMD’s mission is to become the frontier for life-changing technology that helps users enjoy immersive experiences across several devices.
Size and Presence: AMD currently employs around 2,870 employees in 5 Canadian locations.
Best Known For: AMD is known for its next-level computer processors and graphic technologies.
The good bits: AMD Canada offers a great overall culture and good work/life balance.
The not-so-good bits: Collaborating with the global team at AMD could be quite stressful.
Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) was founded in 1969 by Jerry Sanders and a group of seven other engineers in Santa Clara, California. During its early days, AMD focused on producing memory chips but expanded into microprocessors and other semiconductor products.
AMD Canada, the Canadian subsidiary of AMD, was established in 1985 in Markham, Ontario following AMD’s acquisition of ATI Technologies Inc. The company's Canadian operations are focused on research and development, as well as sales and marketing for the Canadian market. AMD Canada is AMD’s second-largest site in the world.
Throughout its history, AMD Canada has played a significant role in the development of AMD's products and technologies and continues to be an important part of the company's global operations.
AMD Canada has a competitive and enthusiastic spirit that contributes to its unique culture of excellence. It aligns with the global AMD culture of innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. The employees at AMD Canada are passionate and collaborative, as each person is responsible for the success of the group.
AMD Canada’s recipe for success combines a fast working pace with excellent support that sees employees get the best out of themselves at all times. Same to the technology they deliver, AMD looks to provide an immersive working experience that sees each day filled with adventure, progression, and an undying will to change the world.
As AMD seeks to develop the world’s most advanced technology, they seek to hire the most passionate people. Some AMD employees oversee student and graduate recruitment to continue their tradition of success
The recruitment process at AMD typically begins with the candidate submitting an online application through the company's career website. Graduate or internship applications will include a resume, cover letter, and any other required documents. After the application is submitted, it is reviewed by a member of the human resources team or the hiring manager during a phone screening.
If the graduate and internship candidates' qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position, they will be invited to participate in a phone or video interview. During the interview, the candidate will have an opportunity to discuss their qualifications, experience, and interest in the position in more detail.
If the candidate is selected to move forward in the process, they may be invited to participate in an on-site interview with members of the team or department where the position is located. The on-site interview allows graduate and internship candidates to know their colleagues and AMD’s work culture.
After the on-site interview, the hiring manager and HR team will review the candidate's qualifications and interview performance and decide on whether to offer the candidate the position.
If an offer is extended, the candidate will have an opportunity to review the details of the offer and negotiate any terms before accepting the position.
AMD has a diverse set of business units, including Computing and Graphics, Enterprise, Embedded, and Semi-Custom which provides various career paths for graduates and interns.
Engineers at AMD work on the design and development of new products, troubleshoot and improve existing products, or conduct research and development to advance the company's technology.
AMD also has a strong focus on sales and marketing, as the company's success depends on its ability to bring its products to market and reach customers. Careers in sales and marketing at AMD include positions in product management, business development, and marketing communications.
AMD employs a large number of employees in operations roles, including supply chain management, manufacturing, and logistics. These roles are critical to the company's ability to produce and deliver products to customers.
Asides from collaboration with the global community, AMD grants graduates and interns access to learning and development programs. Student and internship opportunities help employees at the company solve real-life engineering problems. After successful internships, AMD interns can return for full-time opportunities.
Interns at AMD Canada are paid between CA$ 55,000 to CA$ 60,000 per year. Technologists at AMD Canada earn between CA$ 52,000 to CA$ 59,000 annually. Software Developers at AMD Canada are paid between CA$ 55,000 to CA$ 60,000 per year. Silicon Design Engineers earn between CA$ 55,000 to CA$ 59,000 per year.
AMD incorporates several initiatives to make them responsible citizens of the communities where they work. AMD focuses on four main areas; digital impact, environmental sustainability, supply chain responsibility, and diversity.
AMD is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable practices. It is working to design energy-efficient devices while they reduce the use of hazardous materials in products and operations. AMD aims to create 30x energy-efficient processors by 2025.
AMD also promotes responsible sourcing and ethical business practices in its supply chain. The company has implemented a comprehensive supplier code of conduct and conducts regular audits and assessments of its suppliers to ensure compliance.
AMD philanthropy foundation partners with other organizations to facilitate STEM education, scientific research and a capable workforce. By 2025, AMD aims to have reached 100 million people through philanthropic donations. AMD’s matching contribution program also aims to see over 70% of its workforce involved in works of charity.
AMD has gone through several rounds of layoffs and workforce reductions over the years as part of its efforts to cut costs and improve profitability. These layoffs have affected employees in a variety of roles and locations, and have been met with criticism from some employees and industry observers.