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Algorithm Developer Jobs in San Diego, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sensing Algorithm Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

We seek a talented Sensing Algorithm Engineer who thrives in algorithm research, development, and implementation. The ideal candidate is creative, efficient, collaborates well, and is passionate ...

Senior Algorithm Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110K - $152K/yr

The Sr. Software Engineer (Algorithms) position, Intraoperative Neuromonitoring, is responsible for the design and development of the algorithms and software integration functions for new product ...

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

Algorithm Software Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$140K - $220K/yr

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

Algorithm Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $220K/yr

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

Algorithm Software Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$140K - $220K/yr

In this role, the Algorithm Software Engineer will develop and deploy cutting edge signal processing applications to improve the capabilities of the warfighter in modern electronic warfare ...

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Algorithm Developer information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$36

$84

$111

How much do algorithm developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for algorithm developer in San Diego, CA is $84.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71.54 and $95.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an algorithm developer do?

The job duties of an algorithm developer revolve around researching, writing, and performance testing algorithms. As an algorithm developer, your responsibilities include working to implement your algorithms and then to analyze and modify them as needed. Generally, algorithms use data from a system to generate actions, processes, or reports, so with each algorithm you build, you must first identify the goals and then work to achieve specific results. In this career, you may collaborate with a team to create theories and then perform research and tests until you have designed an efficient algorithm.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an algorithm developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Algorithm Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like Python, C++, or Java), a solid grasp of data structures and algorithms, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), algorithm analysis tools, and sometimes knowledge of specialized libraries (e.g., NumPy, TensorFlow) is expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing efficient solutions and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure the creation of robust, optimized algorithms that meet technical requirements and business goals.

What are some common challenges algorithm developers face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Algorithm Developers transitioning from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines and prioritizing practical, scalable solutions over theoretical elegance. In industry, collaboration with cross-functional teams—like software engineers and product managers—is essential, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills. Additionally, there is a greater emphasis on writing production-quality, well-documented code and aligning algorithmic work with business objectives. Learning to balance innovation with deliverable deadlines is a key part of succeeding in these roles.

How much do algorithm developers make?

Algorithm developers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in machine learning or data analysis can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 per year.

What are popular job titles related to Algorithm Developer jobs in San Diego, CA?

For Algorithm Developer jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Algorithm Developer jobs in San Diego, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Algorithm Developer jobs in San Diego, CA are:

What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Algorithm Developer jobs?

Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Algorithm Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Algorithm Developer job openings in San Diego, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $174,743 per year, or $84 per hour.

Sensing Algorithm Engineer

San Diego, CA • On-site

Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$87K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Leidos addresses some of the nation's toughest defense challenges through innovative signal processing and data analytics. Our San Diego-based team consists of highly skilled scientists and engineers focused on extracting maximum intelligence from complex datasets derived from diverse sensing modalities. We seek a talented Sensing Algorithm Engineer who thrives in algorithm research, development, and implementation. The ideal candidate is creative, efficient, collaborates well, and is passionate about bringing solutions from concept to delivery. Leidos is an employee-friendly company with a competitive benefit package, flexible working hours, and a collegial atmosphere.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Research and develop novel algorithms for remote sensing applications
  • Prototype and test algorithms in high-level languages such as Matlab or Python
  • Devise efficient software implementations in C programming language
  • Conduct algorithm performance testing and analysis
  • Document results and brief customers and stakeholders

Basic Qualifications

  • BS degree in physics, engineering, math or related field with 4-8 years of relevant experience, or Masters with 2-6 years of relevant experience, or Doctoral degree if less than 2 years of experience
  • Fluency in at least 1 high-level programming language, such as Matlab or Python
  • Experience with signal processing, including Fourier transforms, filtering, and estimation
  • Basic understanding of physics with ability and eagerness to learn new concepts
  • Comfortable with Linux cluster computing environments
  • Strong understanding of probability, statistics, linear algebra, and complex variables
  • Familiarity with C coding and software engineering best practices or strong willingness to learn
  • Active Top Secret security clearance
  • Required on-site full-time work in San Diego, CA

Bonus Qualifications

  • Proficiency with at least one sensing modality
  • Deep understanding of fluid dynamics
  • Deep understanding of acoustics
  • Experience with Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS)
  • Experience with Optics
  • Experience with Radar
  • Proficiency with C coding and software engineering best practices
  • Deep understanding of optimal detection and estimation
  • Deep understanding of array processing, beamforming, including concepts and implementation
  • Experience architecting algorithms and hardware for maximal efficiency
  • Experience with real-time processing with edge and cloud components
  • Experience integrating Machine Learning with signal processing
  • Experience with systems engineering
  • Exposure or strong interest in learning embedded programming

SUBSEAMSS

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:August 17, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


What Leidos employees say

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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