ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

C Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stem Xpert

Android Developer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$65.75 - $86.25/hr

Android Java Programming Windows/Linux Platform using Eclipse Good to have C programming exposer Qualifications Key Skills - Mandatory: Android OS Framework & Android Java Layer Native Android ...

Amat

C, C++ Software Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA

$124K - $171K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce ... C++ is required. In addition, experience in programming in several of the following areas is ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 10, 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.

Lead SDET Engineer / Python / Lunix /PyTest / C Embedded / Onsite / Irvine

Motion Recruitment

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Our client in the EV/AV space is urgently looking for a Lead SDET Engineer with strong experience Python, Linux, API, PyTest, C, to add to thier growing team here in Irvine.
This is an Onsite position 5 days a week. 
The ideal candidate has a strong software-engineering background in Python, distributed and service-oriented systems, and test automation, plus hands-on experience automating laboratory hardware. They are comfortable owning test infrastructure end to end, contributing to architecture and design discussions, triaging failures across the full stack, and improving engineering quality, release velocity, and certification readiness.
Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop, and maintain the Python test-automation platform that gates every firmware release
  • Grow automated regression coverage for EV charging flows and build HIL/SIL simulation
  • Build and own CI/CD pipelines that make automated regression a reliable merge and release gate, with reporting and telemetry that surface pass/fail and root cause
  • Triage and reproduce failures across the full stack (test framework, adapters, sequencing, and charger firmware) and drive defects to closure
  • Partner with firmware and systems engineers to improve testability and support OCPP certification
  • Participate in design and code reviews and release-readiness activities, and maintain technical documentation for the platform and interfaces
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance as needed
Must Have Skills 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in software test automation / SDET or software engineering roles
  • Strong Python (frameworks, services, async automation)
  • Experience building test-automation frameworks and writing maintainable test code
  • Solid experience testing REST and WebSocket APIs and asynchronous, service-oriented systems
  • Experience with distributed systems, Docker, CI/CD, SQL / relational databases, and Linux
  • Strong analytical, debugging, and log-analysis skills across distributed components, with methodical defect isolation
  • Effective communication and ability to work across teams
Nice to Have Skills
  • Experience with EV charging protocols (OCPP 1.6J / 2.0.1, ISO 15118 / DIN SPEC 70121), smart charging, and security profiles
  • Hardware-in-the-loop testing and laboratory instrumentation and CAN bus
  • Embedded C programing exposure
  • Experience supporting products through validation, release, and manufacturing
  • Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading technical workstreams
Compentencies
  • Strong technical ownership of test infrastructure
  • Structured debugging and root cause analysis across distributed systems
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Attention to quality, reliability, and automation
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Ability to mentor and support other team members
The Offer:
  • 170-190k base salary
  • 5-8% bonus
  • 401k
  • full benefits - Health , medical , dental
  • 2 weeks off over christmas and new years Paid
  • 10 PTO

Apply