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Cognitive Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

  • PTO

... to cognitive health and performance. What You'll Do * Partner directly with the Founder to define ... Establish engineering workflows, principles, and code quality standards the team can grow into

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

  • PTO

... to cognitive health and performance. What You'll Do * Partner directly with the Founder to define ... Establish engineering workflows, principles, and code quality standards the team can grow into

Senior Engineer, Mechanical Engineering- CA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140 - $160/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Engineering- CA Full Time San Diego, CA, US 30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1019 Salary Range: $140 ... Our second mission is to develop whole-brain cognitive decoders that enable hundreds of millions of ...

Advanced knowledge of cloud architecture, automation frameworks, and integration of cognitive APIs. * Strong programming/scripting experience (e.g., Python, PowerShell) and familiarity with ...

Engineering Manager Level 1

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$133K - $199K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • PTO

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to ... The Engineering & Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines ...

Showing results 21-40

Cognitive Engineering information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$144.9K

$171.7K

How much do cognitive engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive engineering in California is $144,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cognitive engineering?

To thrive as a Cognitive Engineer, a strong background in psychology, human factors, computer science, or related fields is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in human-computer interaction (HCI) tools, usability testing software, and cognitive modeling platforms is highly valued, as are certifications like Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE). Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are critical for designing systems and products that align with human cognitive capabilities, ensuring both safety and usability.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environment for a cognitive engineer?

Cognitive Engineers typically spend their days analyzing user behaviors, designing user interfaces, creating cognitive models, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams such as software developers, product managers, and UX designers. Much of the work involves conducting user research, running usability studies, and iteratively improving products based on data-driven insights. Work environments can range from tech companies to research institutions, often with opportunities for remote or hybrid schedules. Teamwork is a significant aspect of the role, as Cognitive Engineers often bridge the gap between technical development and user needs. This setting fosters ongoing professional learning and provides a clear path toward roles in user experience leadership or advanced human factors research.

What is a cognitive engineering job?

A Cognitive Engineering job involves designing and optimizing systems that enhance human decision-making, problem-solving, and interaction with technology. Professionals in this field apply principles from psychology, artificial intelligence, and human factors engineering to improve user experiences and system efficiency. They work in domains like healthcare, aviation, autonomous systems, and AI-driven applications. The goal is to create intuitive and intelligent systems that complement human cognitive abilities and reduce errors.

What does a cognitive engineer do?

A cognitive engineer designs and develops systems that mimic or support human thought processes, often working on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and user interface design. They analyze how humans interact with technology to improve usability and performance, frequently using tools like data analysis and simulation software.

How much do cognitive engineers make?

Cognitive engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work with AI, machine learning, and data analysis tools, and advanced skills can lead to higher compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Cognitive Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Engineering jobs in California? For Cognitive Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cognitive Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cognitive Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cognitive Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Cognitive Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,945 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Manager Software Engineering 3

Northrop Grumman Corporation

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Expand your horizons, advance your career, and contribute to a secure future for generations. Northrop Grumman's Mission Systems Sector invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams. As a Senior Software Engineering Manager (Level 3) located in San Diego, CA, you'll be a linchpin in missions of paramount importance, defining the art of the possible from day one. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work.
Northrop Grumman's Mission System (NGMS) Sector is looking for a Software Engineering Department Manager 3onsite in San Diego, CA, to support the Navigation, Intelligence and Connectivity (NIC) Division.
This role will manage a large department of highly qualified, diverse individuals that support multiple business units, and will also work as the engineering training lead responsible for talent development across the NIC Division.
Your primary responsibilities will include:
• Functional oversight of a department of multidiscipline engineers working multiple programs and IRAD initiatives
• Directly leading front-line managers
• Staffing and workforce planning
• Recruiting, hiring, and onboarding new employees
• Training new managers
• Employee inclusion, engagement, and mentoring
• Performance management and career development
• Identification of skills required to execute on programs and needed employee training
• Lead strategic training initiatives to facilitate knowledge retention in critical skill areas
• Develop and execute multi-discipline training plans for software, hardware, and systems engineering
• Support and adherence to engineering processes
• Oversight of technical quality for various development, integration, or production programs
The successful candidate will clearly demonstrate strong leadership skills to achieve sustainable top performance. They will have a track record as an effective communicator and problem solver who is able to develop and maintain good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. This candidate will demonstrate a commitment to ethics and integrity, and the capability to innovate while challenging traditional ways of doing business.
The candidate will work closely with both functional and program directors and managers to help drive successful program execution. The ideal candidate will also be able to champion change within the organization, to achieve competitive advantage for the business.
Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or another STEM discipline with 8 years of relevant engineering and management experience - OR - Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or another STEM discipline with 6 years of relevant engineering and management experience - OR - PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or another STEM discipline with 4 years of relevant engineering and management experience.
• Requires an active U.S. Government Secret security clearance, current and within scope, with the ability to obtain and maintain higher clearance levels
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in technical team leadership (Scrum master, Product Owner, SEIT lead, Program Management, etc.)
• Experience in managing a team of employees, management of project work, and current software technologies/tools
• Experience developing, designing, architecting, or deploying large software stacks
• Experience with Software Integration & Test (I&T)
• Experience in all aspects of the software engineering process, from requirements analysis through verification testing
• Proven, demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Experience with product-based development
• Solid understanding of Agile development methodologies
• Strong understanding of software configuration management
• High proficiency in technical problem solving, to include decomposition, root cause analysis, solution development, implementation and monitoring
Preferred Qualifications:
- TS with current/active SCI
- Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM)
- Experience with the Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, etc.)
- Experience and proficiency in software architecture, design, implementation, integration, and debugging C++ SW
- Understanding of how their embedded SW component will fit into a larger SW system / architecture
- Understanding of VHDL design, verification, simulation, and testing of AMD and/or Intel FPGAs
Primary Level Salary Range: $193,000.00 - $289,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939