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Chip Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Chip Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Chip Software Engineer - Remote Bright Vision Technologies is a technology consulting and software development company delivering cloud, AI, data, and enterprise solutions across the United States.

Conductor

Packaging Engineer- Flip Chip

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

We're seeking experienced engineers to contribute to flip chip package development and assembly processes for advanced semiconductor devices (2.5D/3D/chiplet/fan-out/flip-chip). This spans bump ...

Brahma Consulting Group

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

Build and optimize our full-stack developer platform for chip engineers using TypeScript/JavaScript, Python and modern frameworks. * Integrate AI features in close collaboration with ML engineers ...

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All JobsChip Engineer JobsChip Engineer Jobs in California

Chip Engineer information

See California salary details

$19.6K

$85.8K

$175.8K

How much do chip engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for chip engineer in California is $85,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,679.00 and $121,914.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chip engineer?

Chip engineers, also known as semiconductor or integrated circuit (IC) engineers, design, develop, and test microchips that power electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and automotive systems. They work with complex circuitry, ensuring that chips meet performance, size, and energy efficiency requirements. Chip engineers collaborate with other specialists in areas like software, hardware, and manufacturing to bring advanced semiconductor products from concept to production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chip engineer?

To thrive as a Chip Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and integrated circuit (IC) design, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with tools like CAD software (e.g., Cadence, Synopsys), HDL languages (such as Verilog or VHDL), and familiarity with industry standards or certifications are critical. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for designing reliable, high-performance chips that meet rigorous technical requirements and tight project deadlines.

What are some typical challenges a chip engineer faces when working on new semiconductor designs?

Chip Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing power consumption, performance, and area (PPA) during the design process. Meeting aggressive timelines while ensuring design verification and manufacturability can also be demanding. Additionally, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like software, hardware, and testing engineers is crucial for resolving integration issues and optimizing chip functionality. Staying updated with rapid advancements in fabrication technologies and EDA tools is essential for success in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Chip Engineer vs Hardware Design Engineer?

AspectChip EngineerHardware Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, fabrication facilities, simulation softwareDesign labs, schematic tools, testing environments
Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, electronics firms, tech companiesElectronics manufacturers, consumer device companies, aerospace
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Chip Engineers focus on designing and developing integrated circuits and chips, often working on the entire chip architecture. Hardware Design Engineers concentrate on creating detailed schematics and layouts for electronic hardware components, including circuit boards and systems. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Chip Engineers typically work more on the semiconductor level, whereas Hardware Design Engineers focus on the physical hardware implementation.

How do you become a chip engineer?

To become a chip engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with semiconductor design, circuit analysis, and tools like CAD software is important, and advanced roles may require a master's degree or certifications in relevant areas.

How much do chip engineers make?

Chip engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, location, and education level. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand areas or with advanced knowledge of semiconductor design tools.

What does a chip engineer do?

A chip engineer designs, develops, and tests integrated circuits and microchips used in electronic devices. They work with electronic design automation (EDA) tools, understand semiconductor physics, and often collaborate with hardware and software teams to optimize chip performance and power efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Chip Engineer jobs in California?

For Chip Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chip Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Chip Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chip Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chip Engineer job openings:

Chip Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chip Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,751 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Chip Engineering Operations Program Manager

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Nvidia Corporation
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 246 rated software companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Nvidia Corporationexternal

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

NVIDIA's invention of the GPU in 1999 sparked the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern AI - the next era of computing - with the GPU acting as the brain of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can perceive and understand the world. Today, we are increasingly known as "the AI computing company". We are looking to grow our company, and grow our teams with the smartest people in the world.
We are now looking for a Chip Engineering Operations Program Manager! The NVIDIA Engineering Operations group has an immediate opening for a top Program Manager. This group is responsible for the silicon schedule from bring-up to production release. We are looking for individuals who thrive in a dynamic environment, and are not afraid to roll-up his their sleeves and get their hands dirty. We desire a self-starter, with great communication skills; as well as a leader, with a deep sense of commitment. You will be responsible for developing wafer forecasts, schedule generation and management, supporting cross-functional teams, and mitigating any programmatic risks. You will also review and improve processes, and handle prototype demand.
What you'll be doing:
  • You own silicon bring-up schedule from power on to production release
  • Negotiate silicon and board demand with teams and drive a bottom-up forecast
  • Oversee and manage chip and board allocations across the company
  • Lead prototype chip delivery to internal customers
  • Track and coordinate engineering deliverables, key milestones and qualification/validation tasks in the new product introduction phase
  • Identify and mitigate risks to schedules and programs
  • Communicate status to cross-functional teams as well as upper management
  • Continuously evaluate internal tools and processes and drive fixes to improve productivity
  • Create new and fix existing processes between different teams
  • Drive implementation of SW tools for data analytics and process evaluation

What we need to see:
  • BS degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years in Semiconductor Program Management, ASIC Product Engineering, or ASIC design
  • Deep understanding of ASIC Technology and Productization requirements
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to coordinate with multiple technical and business teams
  • Self-directed and driven, highly motivated, creative, and have a consistent record of handling multiple tasks at any given time
  • Have the ability to work independently and follow complex procedures
  • Proficient with MS Project and Excel

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 136,000 USD - 212,750 USD for Level 3, and 168,000 USD - 258,750 USD for Level 4.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until August 14, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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