ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Architect Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PsiQuantum

Optical Architect (Design)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Our optical architecture team sits at the interface of hardware development and manufacturing, and the quantum architecture to design the first utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer. Its ...

Broadcom

Packaging Architect Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$146K/yr

Hiring a talent in advanced packaging design with intensive hands-on experience in GDSII-based physical layout and in-depth knowledge in advanced 2.5D/3D packaging architect and technology. Skills in ...

SolGenie

AI Architect

Torrance, CA · On-site

Design and implement GenAI solutions using LLMs (OpenAI, Azure OpenAI, Claude, etc.) * Build and ... Architect ( Design and implementation) * Expertise in Prompt Engineering, RAG, Agents, and LLM ...

Xgrid.co

System Design Architect

San Jose, CA

$289K/yr

We are seeking a System Design Architect to lead the architecture, design, and evolution of modern, scalable, and resilient workflow platforms for our clients. As a trusted technology partner for ...

Baidu USA

Senior RTL Design Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

Architect, design and implement new features, performance improvements, and ISA extensions in RISC-V CPU core generators. Microarchitecture development and specification. Ensure that knowledge is ...

SK hynix America

HBM Logic Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

Perform RTL design and implementation based on approved specifications. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define IP functionality, behavior, and architecture. * Review digital IP ...

Baidu USA

Senior RTL Design Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Responsibilities: • Architect, design and implement new features, performance improvements, and ISA extensions in RISC-V CPU core generators. • Microarchitecture development and specification.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsArchitect Design JobsArchitect Design Jobs in California

Architect Design information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$127.1K

$198.9K

How much do architect design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for architect design in California is $127,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,800.00 and $163,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money does an architect designer make?

Architect designers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and firm size. Senior architects with licensure and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and professional development opportunities.

What is the difference between Architect Design vs Civil Engineer?

AspectArchitect DesignCivil Engineer
CredentialsArchitect license, architecture degreeEngineering degree, civil engineering license
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetingsConstruction sites, project planning
Industry UsageBuilding design, urban planningInfrastructure, transportation projects

Architect Design focuses on creating building aesthetics and spatial layouts, emphasizing aesthetics and functionality. Civil Engineers handle structural integrity, infrastructure, and construction processes. While both roles collaborate on building projects, Architects primarily develop the design concept, whereas Civil Engineers ensure structural safety and feasibility.

What does a design architect do?

A design architect is responsible for developing the conceptual and aesthetic aspects of building projects, creating design plans, sketches, and models. They collaborate with clients, engineers, and construction teams to ensure the design meets functional, safety, and regulatory standards, often using software like AutoCAD or Revit. Their work focuses on the visual and spatial qualities of structures throughout the design process.

What are some common challenges faced by architects during the design process, and how are they typically addressed within a team environment?

Architects frequently encounter challenges such as balancing client expectations with budget constraints, ensuring compliance with building codes, and coordinating with engineers and contractors. Effective communication and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams are essential to address these issues. Regular design reviews, using BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and maintaining clear documentation help architects identify potential conflicts early and develop creative, practical solutions that satisfy all stakeholders.

What do architect designers do?

Architect designers are professionals who plan, design, and oversee the construction of buildings and structures. They create detailed drawings and blueprints, considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, safety, and sustainability. Architect designers work closely with clients, engineers, and construction teams to ensure that projects meet the required specifications and regulations. Their role often includes selecting materials, managing budgets, and ensuring that the final design aligns with the client's vision and needs.

Can an architect work as a designer?

An architect can work as a designer, as designing is a core part of architectural practice. Architects often create conceptual designs, develop plans, and use design software like AutoCAD or Revit to visualize projects. Many architects also specialize in interior or landscape design, expanding their role beyond traditional building architecture.

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

To thrive as an Architect Designer, you need a solid educational background in architecture, strong design skills, and proficiency in building codes and regulations. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, along with state licensure or certification, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and teams. These skills and qualities ensure the successful creation of functional, aesthetically pleasing, and compliant structures that meet client needs and industry standards.

What jobs can I get with an architectural design degree?

With an architectural design degree, you can pursue roles such as architectural designer, project architect, urban planner, or interior designer. These positions often require skills in CAD software, design principles, and knowledge of building codes, and may involve working in architectural firms, construction companies, or government agencies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Architect Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Architect Design jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Architect Design jobs in California? For Architect Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Architect Design jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Architect Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Architect Design jobs? Cities in California with the most Architect Design job openings:
Architect Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Architect Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,070 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Optical Architect (Design)

PsiQuantum

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

PsiQuantum'smission is to build the first useful quantum computers-machines capable of delivering the breakthroughs the field has long promised. Since our founding in 2016, our singular focus has been to build and deploy million-qubit, fault-tolerant quantum systems.

Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that even the most advanced supercomputers or AI systems will never reach. Their impact will span energy, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials, and other foundational industries.

Our architecture and approachisbased on silicon photonics. Byleveragingthe advanced semiconductor manufacturing industry-including partners like GlobalFoundries-we use the same high-volume processes that already produce billions of chips for telecom and consumer electronics. Photonics offers natural advantages for scale: photonsdon'tfeel heat, are immune to electromagnetic interference, and integrate with existing cryogenic cooling and standard fiber-optic infrastructure.

In 2024,PsiQuantumannounced government-funded projects to support the build-out of our first utility-scale quantum computers in Brisbane, Australia, and Chicago, Illinois. These initiatives reflect a growing recognition that quantum computing will be strategically and economically defining-and that now is the time to scale.

PsiQuantumalso develops the algorithms and software needed to make these systems commercially valuable. Our application, software, and industry teams work directly with leading Fortune 500 companies-including Lockheed Martin, Mercedes-Benz, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Mitsubishi Chemical-to prepare quantum solutions for real-world impact.

Quantum computing is not an extension of classical computing. Itrepresentsa fundamental shift-and a path to mastering challenges that cannot besolvedany other way. The potential is enormous, and we have a clearpathto make it real.

Come join us.

Job Summary:

Our optical architecture team sits at the interface of hardware development and manufacturing, and the quantum architecture to design the first utility-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer. Its primary mission is to develop and then translate abstract quantum protocols to specifications of hardware systems, including strategies for qubit networking and detailed quantum performance modelling. We are looking for an optical architect to join the team in an individual contributor role that will involve close collaboration with all of PsiQuantum's technical teams with a focus on analysis, evaluation and improvement of architectural design.

Responsibilities:

  • Design functionality and determine requirements for quantum optical aspects of the full system architecture.
  • Build predictive models and perform analysis of architectural performance across multiple system views.
  • Develop methodologies for evaluating implementation concepts and determining their feasibility.
  • Work closely with photonics, systems and architecture teams to capture a consistent, data-driven description of the optical system architecture.

Experience/Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or equivalent in EE, Physics, Computer Science or related field. PhD with a focus on quantum computation theory or quantum photonics preferred.
  • 3+ years of relevant academic or industry research experience in quantum computing or quantum information.
  • Knowledge of linear optical quantum computing and quantum optics preferred. Familiarity with error modelling, quantum networks and quantum error-correcting codes strongly preferred.
  • Ability to work across domains and collaborate effectively with multi-disciplinary technical teams across sites & timezones.
  • Experience programming in Python, C++ or similar languages is desirable.
  • Competent use of collaborative software development tools (e.g., GitHub) is desirable.

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

Note: PsiQuantum will only reach out to you using an official PsiQuantum email address and will never ask you for bank account information as part of the interview process. Please report any suspicious activity to recruiting@psiquantum.com.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

The range below reflect the target ranges for a new hire base salary. Actual compensation may vary outside of these ranges and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

U.S. Base Pay Range
$110,000—$150,000 USD

Apply