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Compiler Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. GPU Compiler Developer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$57.75 - $76.50/hr

Responsibilities : • Define GPU compiler software architecture and interfaces. • Development ... Engineering or related majors. • 10+ years of working experience on product compiler, compiler ...

Senior Compiler Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$149K - $284K/yr

Develop, enhance, test, debug, release, and maintain compiler software for Intel's GPU programming models, including OpenCL, SYCL, OpenMP, and more * Design and integrate intermediate representation ...

Software Engineer - Compiler

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$175K - $400K/yr

Software Engineer - Compiler Mountain View, CA MatX is on a mission to be the compute platform for AGI. We are developing vertically integrated full-stack solutions from silicon to systems including ...

Software Engineer - Compiler

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$175K - $400K/yr

Possess outstanding software engineering skills with a focus on efficiency and performance * Possess experience in compiler algorithms, demonstrating proficiency in areas such as register allocation ...

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Showing results 1-20

Compiler Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do compiler software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for compiler software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Compiler Software Engineer?

A Compiler Software Engineer is a specialized software developer who designs, implements, and maintains compilers. Compilers are programs that translate source code written in one programming language into another, typically from high-level languages like C++ or Python into machine code that a computer can execute. Compiler engineers work on optimizing code performance, ensuring correctness, and supporting new programming language features. They often have strong backgrounds in computer science, algorithms, and systems programming.

What are some common challenges faced by Compiler Software Engineers when optimizing code for different hardware architectures?

Compiler Software Engineers often encounter challenges when adapting and optimizing code for various hardware architectures, such as balancing performance improvements with maintaining code portability and correctness. Each architecture may have unique instruction sets, memory hierarchies, and parallelization capabilities, requiring careful tuning of compiler optimizations. Additionally, collaboration with hardware engineers and staying updated on evolving processor technologies are essential to ensure efficient code generation. This aspect of the role provides continuous learning opportunities and keeps the work both dynamic and technically rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Compiler Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compiler Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, programming languages (such as C/C++), and compiler theory, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like LLVM, GCC, and debuggers, as well as experience with code optimization and static analysis, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding engineers apart. These skills ensure robust, efficient compiler development and seamless collaboration with development teams.

What is the difference between Compiler Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectCompiler Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, specialized knowledge in compilersBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, compiler development teamsVaried environments including startups, corporations, freelance projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in compiler design, programming language development, systems softwareWeb, mobile, enterprise applications, software solutions

Compiler Software Engineers focus on designing and optimizing compilers and language tools, often working in specialized teams. Software Developers create a wide range of applications across industries. While both roles require programming skills, Compiler Software Engineers have a niche expertise in language translation and optimization, making their work more specialized.

What are the most commonly searched types of Compiler Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Compiler Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Compiler Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compiler Software Engineer jobs in California are:
Lead Software Engineer

$114K - $213K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.
Cadence Design Systems is looking for a highly motivated Software Engineer to work with the Protium Compiler team. You will be part of a team responsible for designing, developing, troubleshooting, debugging and supporting the rapid FPGA prototyping compiler software. Development responsibilities will include: code optimization and development, data-model enhancements, static timing and instrumentation implementation.
As a Software Engineer you will help in design, implementation and testing of compiler software for the platform in future. In addition you will be responsible to address customer issues in current systems.
  • BS with a minimum of 4 years of experience OR MS with a minimum of 2 years of experience OR new PhD Graduate
  • Should be versatile in C++, data structure, algorithms
  • Experience of static timing analysis is a plus
  • Electronics circuit design experience is a plus but optional
  • Experience with AI-assisted programming and testing tools is a plus

The annual salary range for California is $114,800 to $213,200. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.
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