1

Application Performance Engineer Jobs in California

next page

Showing results 1-20

Application Performance Engineer information

See California salary details

$77.5K

$131.1K

$171.7K

How much do application performance engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for application performance engineer in California is $131,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,600.00 and $155,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are performance engineers in demand?

Performance engineers are in high demand as organizations seek to optimize application speed, scalability, and reliability. They often work with tools like load testing software and require skills in monitoring, scripting, and performance analysis, making their expertise valuable across many industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Application Performance Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Application Performance Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of software development and architecture, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with performance monitoring tools (like AppDynamics, Dynatrace, or New Relic), load testing platforms (such as JMeter or LoadRunner), and scripting languages is essential. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for diagnosing and explaining complex performance issues. These skills ensure optimal application reliability and user experience by proactively identifying and resolving performance bottlenecks.

What are Application Performance Engineers?

Application Performance Engineers are IT professionals responsible for ensuring that software applications run smoothly, efficiently, and reliably. They monitor application performance, identify bottlenecks, and collaborate with development and operations teams to optimize system performance. Their work often includes analyzing system metrics, conducting performance tests, and recommending improvements to meet user expectations and business requirements.

What is the difference between Application Performance Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectApplication Performance EngineerSoftware Developer
Primary FocusOptimizing application performance, monitoring, and troubleshootingDesigning, coding, and testing software applications
Skills & CertificationsPerformance testing, monitoring tools, scripting, certifications like AWS or AzureProgramming languages, software design, development frameworks
Work EnvironmentIT teams, DevOps, performance testing labsDevelopment teams, coding environments, project management

While both roles work closely within software projects, Application Performance Engineers focus on ensuring applications run efficiently and reliably, whereas Software Developers create the applications themselves. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus.

What are some typical challenges Application Performance Engineers face when optimizing complex enterprise applications?

Application Performance Engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing performance bottlenecks in distributed systems, analyzing intricate traces and logs, and collaborating across development and operations teams to implement effective solutions. They must balance immediate fixes with long-term architectural improvements, all while ensuring minimal disruption to users. The role also involves staying current with evolving monitoring tools and adapting strategies to support both legacy and cloud-native environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior application performance engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in performance tuning, and certifications such as AWS or Google Cloud can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting their expertise in optimizing software systems and infrastructure.

What does a performance engineer do?

A performance engineer is responsible for analyzing, testing, and optimizing the performance of software applications and systems. They use tools like load testing and monitoring to identify bottlenecks, improve response times, and ensure system reliability under various conditions. Their work often involves scripting, performance metrics analysis, and collaboration with development teams to enhance overall application efficiency.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior application performance engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in performance tuning, and certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation often depends on location, company size, and individual expertise, with some earning through bonuses and stock options.
What are popular job titles related to Application Performance Engineer jobs in CA? For Application Performance Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Application Performance Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,141 per year, or $63 per hour.

Aerodynamics & Performance Engineer (All Experience Levels)

Agilis Management Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Agilis is looking for Aerodynamics/Performance Engineer(s) with all levels of experience to help in the design and development of complex machines engineers are faced with the need to solve many problems simultaneously. The Aerodynamics & Performance Engineer, using his/her knowledge and tools, will direct and shape the detailed aerodynamic and/or performance solution concurrently with the development of the mechanical and structural design. Successful candidates for our positions will be able to work on a variety of projects using a variety of software. Positions available in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Columbia & Greenville, SC, Oklahoma City, OK and San Diego, CA.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS: include but are not limited to those listed and will include other duties as required from time to time:

Responsibilities/ Duties: include but not limited to:

  • Perform aerodynamic and performance analyses in a complete and timely manner. Analyses must be performed at a level of detail consistent with the program requirements
  • Preparation of analytical reports are to be consistent with requirements stated in the Agilis Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Must be capable of creating new tools or modifying existing tools, if appropriate
  • Maintain a strong proficiency, through periodic training and frequent use, with generally accepted Agilis analysis tools and customer required tools
  • Ability to discuss analytical issues with our external and internal customers by providing sketches, plots and any other device for conveying the message of the discussion
  • Collects and researches data skillfully and be able to perform preliminary or final analyses;
  • Clearly and concisely organize and document all the important aspects of the analysis; effectively manages/minimizes the storage of electronic data to eliminate redundant data and ensure proper archival of electronic data at completion of tasks
  • Ability to work on team, be a team player and dependable
  • Active participation in customer reviews at the discretion of the IPT Lead.
  • Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations
  • Provide in-house support and mentoring including assisting or instructing others in the use of techniques and tools.
  • Performs other tasks as required.

Education/Experience: include but are not limited to:

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in the field of engineering (e.g. mechanical and/or aerospace)
  • Advanced knowledge of Word, Excel, and Outlook (or similar programs)
  • Thorough knowledge of most advanced engineering methods, tools and procedures;
  • Has the ability to perform analyses to verify the integrity of the detailed thermal and flow systems solutions using appropriate tools, including but not limited to hand calculations, spreadsheets and other software
  • Collects and researches data skillfully; uses intuition and experience to complement data; ability to perform preliminary or final analyses
  • Must have excellent written and verbal skills with the ability to communicate with all levels of personnel within the organization and customers.
  • Ability to obtain a Security Clearance, if required
  • Physical Demands: Able to sit for long periods of time; able to work at a computer desk or workstation; able to perform light physical duties such as lifting and carrying up to 30lbs

If you meet these qualifications and are an energetic, creative and innovative individual with a can-do attitude and you want to work with the most talented and dedicated engineers in our industry, please complete our online application and upload your resume.

We offer a competitive compensation package, including but not all inclusive of health/wellness benefits, a generous PTO policy, holidays and a 401(k) Plan.

LOCATION:

  • Hybrid
  • On-site

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protect by law.