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Chip Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SK hynix America

On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$121K - $150K/yr

On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer Office Location: San Jose, CA Job Type: Full-Time Work Model: Onsite About SK hynix America At SK hynix America, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation ...

SK hynix America

On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $320K/yr

On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer Office Location: San Jose, CA Job Type: Full-Time Work Model: Onsite About SK hynix America At SK hynix America, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation ...

Google

Chip Implementation Lead

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related ... You will own the implementability of the entire chip, driving the convergence of Performance, Power ...

New

Eridu AI

ASIC Chip Design Lead

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$250K - $280K/yr

The company is in execution mode and has a world-class engineering team with decades of experience ... Position Overview We are seeking a hands-on ASIC Chip Design Lead to own chip design execution from ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 13, 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.

How much do chip engineers make in the US?

Chip engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $110,000, with entry-level positions starting at approximately $80,000 and experienced engineers earning over $150,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific skills such as VHDL or FPGA design.

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 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.

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 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 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,751 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer

SK hynix America

San Jose, CA • On-site

$121K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title: On/Off-Chip SI/PI Engineer
Office Location: San Jose, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Model: Onsite 
About SK hynix America
At SK hynix America, we're at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, developing advanced memory solutions that power everything from smartphones to data centers. As a global leader in DRAM and NAND flash technologies, we drive the evolution of advancing mobile technology, empowering cloud computing, and pioneering future technologies. Our cutting-edge memory technologies are essential in today's most advanced electronic devices and IT infrastructure, enabling enhanced performance and user experiences across the digital landscape.
We're looking for innovative minds to join our mission of shaping the future of technology. At SK hynix America, you'll be part of a team that's pioneering breakthrough memory solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. We're not just adapting to technological change - we're driving it, with significant investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and eco-friendly solutions and operational practices. As we continue to expand our market presence and push the boundaries of what's possible in semiconductor technology, we invite you to be part of our journey to creating the next generation of memory solutions that will define the future of computing.

Job Summary:

This role serves as a critical technical liaison between HQ engineering teams and key U.S.-based customers, providing hands-on SI/PI analysis to resolve immediate HBM challenges. The position involves executing detailed signal and power integrity analyses while contributing to the development of advanced architectures for future HBM and DRAM products. By fostering deep technical partnerships, the successful candidate will ensure timely issue resolution and drive product optimization through close customer collaboration.

Responsibilities:

  • Strengthen SI/PI capabilities for HBM, next-generation DRAM, and beyond.
  • Drive system-level co-optimization beyond standalone DRAM design.
  • Build deep technical partnerships with U.S.-based customers.
  • Improve competitiveness through close engagement with customers in the U.S.
  • Perform on-chip and off-chip SI/PI design and analysis for HBM and next-generation DRAM products.
  • Verify system-level SI/PI robustness through integrated modeling and 3D electromagnetic analysis
  • Analyze root causes of SI/PI issues and establish improvement plans.
  • Participate in technical engagements with key customers.
  • Leverage understanding of DRAM on-chip architecture and its electrical characteristics.

Qualifications:   

  • BS in Electrical Engineering or a related field with 3+ years of relevant experience in SI/PI engineering, or MS/Ph.D with a focus on signal/power integrity, high-speed signaling, electromagnetics, RF/microwave engineering, or a related field.
  • Understanding of 2.5D/3D IC architectures, modeling and operations.
  • Hands-on experience in SI/PI analysis, including on-/off-chip PDN and high-speed channel analysis.
  • Proficiency with SI/PI simulation and analysis tools (HFSS, SIwave, Sigrity, ADS, HSPICE, etc.).
  • Experience with package/PCB layout review tools (Allegro Design/APD, etc.) and AI-assisted analysis and automation skills are a plus.

Benefits:       

  • Top Tier health insurance at no employee cost
  • Paid day offs: PTO + Company Holidays + Happy Fridays
  • Paid Parental Leave Program
  • 401k Matching
  • Educational reimbursement up to $10,000 per year for job-related higher education degree
  • Donation Matching and volunteering opportunities
  • Corporate discount programs
  • Free Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner provided to employees

Equal Employment Opportunity:

SKHYA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender identity, national origin, color, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws. 

Compensation:

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About SK Hynix America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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