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C Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Virtuous Tech Inc

Visual C++ Developer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Visual C++ Developer Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite) Job Type: Contract We are seeking a Visual C++ (VC++) Developer with strong SQL skills for an onsite opportunity in Irvine, CA. The ideal candidate ...

Rylo

Embedded Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

You are an excellent C programmer * You are an expert in low-level OS code, computer initialization, memory management and concurrency * You have a detailed understanding of SOC architecture * You ...

Rylo

Embedded Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$154K - $203K/yr

You are an excellent C programmer * You are an expert in low-level OS code, computer initialization, memory management and concurrency * You have a detailed understanding of SOC architecture * You ...

STI

Datacenter Firmware Developer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

Remote (PST zone consultants only) Duration: Long term Must Have Skills Skill 1 - 10+ Years of Exp in Firmware Development Skill 2 - 8 + Years of Exp in C programming Skill 3 - 8+ Years of Exp in ...

W3Global Inc.

Electrical Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

$80K - $140K/yr

Electrical/Instrumentation & Control (I&C) Engineer We are seeking an Electrical/Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineer to join a growing team. This is an extraordinary opportunity to do ...

ATA Engineering, Inc

Engineering Software Programmer

CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Preferred experience includes programming in MATLAB, Python, C, C++, C#, Visual Basic, and/or Java. Able to troubleshoot hardware and software configurations. * Strong familiarity with object ...

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All JobsC Programmer JobsC Programmer Jobs in California

C Programmer information

See California salary details

$11

$39

$67

How much do c programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for c programmer in California is $39.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a C programmer?

The salary of a C programmer varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $110,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced programmers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in fields like embedded systems or software development. Certifications and proficiency with tools like GCC or Visual Studio can also influence compensation.

What is the difference between C Programmer vs C Developer?

AspectC ProgrammerC Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in C language, often with a degree in Computer Science or related fieldSimilar credentials, with additional emphasis on software development experience
Work EnvironmentTypically in embedded systems, firmware, or low-level programmingOften in software applications, system software, or embedded systems
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, automotive, embedded device firmsSoftware firms, tech startups, hardware companies

The main difference between a C Programmer and a C Developer lies in their scope of work. C Programmers focus primarily on writing and debugging C code, often in embedded or low-level environments. C Developers may have a broader role, including designing, testing, and maintaining C-based applications. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but their typical work environments and responsibilities can differ slightly.

Which companies hire C programmers?

Many technology, automotive, aerospace, and embedded systems companies hire C programmers for developing firmware, operating systems, and performance-critical applications. Notable employers include Intel, Microsoft, Apple, Qualcomm, and various defense contractors, often requiring knowledge of low-level programming and familiarity with tools like GCC or Visual Studio.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a C programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a C Programmer, you need a strong understanding of C programming language fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with development environments like GCC or Visual Studio, version control systems such as Git, and familiarity with debugging tools are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving abilities help C Programmers stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for writing efficient, reliable code and ensuring robust software performance in diverse technical environments.

What does a C programmer do?

A C Programmer is someone responsible for developing the code that integrates into an operating system, as well as other operating system modules, low-level libraries for other high-level languages, and embedded systems. C is a versatile and flexible programming language that is used for a wide range of purposes. C Programmers are tasked with designing, building, and maintaining efficient, reliable, and reusable C++ code, suggesting and implementing new solutions, creating high-level designs, and supporting the team in maintaining a code's quality. Also, they assist with analysis, design, implementation, and testing. You typically need to earn a degree from post-secondary education to be a qualified candidate for a C Programmer role.

What is a C programmer?

C Programmers are software developers who specialize in writing, testing, and maintaining code using the C programming language. They typically work on system-level software, embedded systems, operating systems, and application development where performance and efficiency are critical. C Programmers need a strong understanding of computer architecture, memory management, and low-level programming concepts. Their work is fundamental in industries such as technology, automotive, telecommunications, and more.

Are C programmers still in demand?

C programmers are still in demand, especially in industries such as embedded systems, operating systems, and hardware development, where low-level programming and performance are critical. Knowledge of C remains valuable for maintaining legacy systems and working with hardware interfaces, and many organizations seek professionals skilled in C for specialized roles.

How do C programmers typically collaborate with other team members during software development projects?

C Programmers often work closely with other developers, software engineers, and quality assurance teams throughout the development cycle. They participate in code reviews, contribute to design discussions, and integrate their code with modules written in other languages or by other team members. Effective communication and documentation are key, as C code frequently interacts with hardware or low-level components that require coordination with system architects or embedded engineers. This collaborative environment helps ensure robust, efficient, and maintainable software solutions.
More about C Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of C Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of C Programmer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to C Programmer jobs in California? For C Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching C Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for C Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for C Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most C Programmer job openings:
C Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various C Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,158 per year, or $39 per hour.

Senior Staff Software Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane)

Zscaler

San Jose, CA • Hybrid

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Role

We are looking for a Senior Staff Software Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane) to join our Engineering Team. This is a Hybrid (San Jose, CA 3 days a week in office) role, reporting to the Senior Director, Software Development Engineering. The Senior Staff Software Engineer (C / Networking / Dataplane) will design and implement high-performance data path features for load balancing and L7 protocols, directly enhancing the scalability and security of global networking infrastructure. By leveraging deep C programming expertise and autonomous ownership, they will drive complex architectural projects from initial concept to large-scale deployment.

What you'll do (Role Expectations)

  • Design and implement Datapath features related to Load Balancer, Firewall rules and L7 Protocol implementations
  • Apply deep knowledge of C programming, data structures, and algorithms to build high-performance systems
  • Independently drive moderately complex projects from conception to deployment with full ownership
  • Utilize expert knowledge of networking protocols and services including DNS, HTTP, TCP/IP, and SSL/TLS
  • Leverage Unix or Linux operating systems knowledge to optimize networking and security applications

Who You Are (Success Profile)

  • You act like an owner. Your passion for the mission fuels your bias for action. You operate with integrity because you genuinely care about the outcome. You adapt to what's needed, navigating seamlessly between high-level strategy and hands-on execution.
  • You are a high-trust collaborator. You are ambitious for the team, not just yourself. You embrace our challenge culture by giving and receiving ongoing feedback-knowing that candor delivered with clarity and respect is the truest form of teamwork and the fastest way to earn trust.
  • You are customer-obsessed. You build deep empathy for the customer-both internal and external-and anchor your decisions in solving their real-world problems. You champion their needs from start to finish, knowing their success is our success.
  • You operate with urgency. You understand that in a high-growth environment, speed and quality are not mutually exclusive. You have a relentless focus on execution and a bias for action, delivering high-impact results quickly to win for the customer and the team.
  • You think at scale. You connect your day-to-day work to the larger company mission and think globally. You build solutions, processes, and teams that are not just effective today but are built to last and support a high-growth, global organization.

What We're Looking for (Minimum Qualifications)

  • Demonstrated curiosity and active exploration of AI tools, with a proven history of integrating new technologies to enhance daily workflows and augment problem-solving
  • 8+ years of experience building large-scale commercial networking and security applications with proficiency in programming languages C or C++
  • Strong foundational knowledge in data structures and algorithms
  • Working experience in Linux, Unix, or similar operating systems
  • BS or MS degree in CS/CE or equivalent experience

What Will Make You Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Exposure to AI-assisted software development tools and workflows, with the ability to apply them to improve engineering productivity and delivery quality
  • Advanced knowledge of networking protocols and services, specifically DNS, HTTP, TCP/IP, and SSL/TLS

#LI-KM9 #LI-Hybrid

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