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Compiler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Compiler Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$135K - $210K/yr

Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation. * Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to ...

Senior Compiler Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $210K/yr

Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation. * Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to ...

Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation. * Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to ...

Design and build the compiler that converts AI models from popular ML frameworks into assembly code that runs on our accelerator hardware. * Develop and implement novel scheduling algorithms that ...

DensityAI is a company focused on AI accelerators, and they are seeking a Compiler Engineer to own MLIR dialect design and lowering passes for their AI accelerator. The role involves working with ...

Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation. * Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to ...

Compiler Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$116K - $175K/yr

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Compiler Toolchain Software General Summary: Interested in enabling open source developers to build software for millions of devices? Interested in leading ...

Senior Compiler Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135 - $210/hr

Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation. * Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to ...

New

In this role, you will design, develop, optimize, and maintain compiler components, parallel runtimes, and developer‑facing features that significantly improve the programming experience for ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Compiler information

See California salary details

$9

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$35

How much do compiler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for compiler in California is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compiler?

A compiler is a specialized computer program that translates source code written in a high-level programming language into machine code or another lower-level language that a computer can execute. This process allows developers to write code in languages like C++, Java, or Python, which are easier for humans to understand, and then have it converted into instructions that hardware can process. Compilers perform various tasks such as syntax analysis, optimization, and code generation to ensure the resulting program runs efficiently and correctly.

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

To thrive as a Compiler Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, programming languages, and compiler theory, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like LLVM, GCC, and experience with languages such as C/C++ or Rust are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this field. These skills ensure the development of efficient, reliable compilers that support robust software and systems development.

What are the common challenges faced when working as a compiler engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Compiler Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing code for performance, ensuring compatibility across various hardware architectures, and maintaining the correctness of complex transformations. Debugging and diagnosing issues in the compilation process can be particularly intricate, requiring a strong understanding of both source and target languages. Collaborating closely with language designers and hardware engineers, as well as utilizing automated testing and profiling tools, helps address these challenges and results in more robust and efficient compilers.

What is the difference between Compiler vs Interpreter?

AspectCompilerInterpreter
FunctionTranslates entire code into machine language before executionTranslates code line-by-line during execution
SpeedFaster execution after compilationSlower due to real-time translation
UsageUsed in languages like C, C++Used in languages like Python, JavaScript
ErrorsErrors are found after compilationErrors are detected during execution
OutputProduces standalone executable filesRuns directly from source code

In summary, a compiler translates the entire program into machine code before execution, resulting in faster runtime and standalone files. An interpreter translates code line-by-line during execution, which can be slower but allows for easier debugging and dynamic execution. Both are essential in different programming environments depending on performance and development needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Compiler jobs in California?

The most popular types of Compiler jobs in California are:

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

The top searched job categories for Compiler jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Compiler jobs?

Cities in California with the most Compiler job openings:

Infographic showing various Compiler job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,720 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Senior Compiler Engineer

Q-CTRL

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$135K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the team
At Q-CTRL, Quantum Computing Engineering is a global team of software engineers and infrastructure experts,combining deep technical expertise with a startup mindset to deliver real impact through software innovation. Our work is underpinned by robust standards, and by embracing the three virtues. Our team excels in areas across back-end, front-end, machine learning, and platform engineering.
We transform Q-CTRL's world-leading technological breakthroughs into commercial software products with applications across defense, research, and industry. We work closely with Product, Design, and Research teams to accelerate the path to quantum advantage worldwide.
About the role
As a Senior Software Engineer on the Boulder Opal team, you will lead the design and evolution of the compiler that powers next-generation quantum computing systems. Working closely with researchers and quantum engineers, you will bridge the gap between quantum algorithms and physical hardware by building a high-performance compiler capable of translating pulse-level programs into controller instructions.
This is a hands-on senior engineering role for someone with deep compiler expertise who enjoys solving challenging systems problems and influencing technical direction.
What you'll be doing:
  • Design, implement and optimise compiler infrastructure, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation.
  • Maintain and evolve our bespoke Python DSL used by researchers to construct pulse-level quantum programs.
  • Build high-performance software using Python and C++.
  • Work closely with researchers to translate experimental algorithms into production-quality compiler capabilities.
  • Run experiments on quantum hardware to validate compiler outputs end-to-end.
  • Influence technical direction, mentor other engineers and drive engineering best practices.

Ideally you'll have:
  • Strong proficiency in Python and C++.
  • Experience with LLVM, particularly MLIR.
  • Experience implementing language tooling, parsers or DSLs.
  • Significant experience designing production compiler systems.
  • Experience with compiler architectures, intermediate representations, optimisation passes and code generation.
  • Strong understanding of systems programming and software architecture.

It would be fantastic (but not essential) if you bring:
  • Experience with quantum control systems or pulse-level programming.
  • Experience with experimental characterisation of superconducting or semiconductor spin qubits.
  • Experience with RF signal processing concepts such as IQ modulation.
  • Experience using laboratory instrumentation (AWGs, digitisers, oscilloscopes, SCPI-controlled instruments).
  • Experience with FPGA development (Verilog, VHDL or HLS).

Salary
The base salary for this position is targeted between $135,000 - $210,000 and will ultimately be determined by specific job-related skills, experience, level, location and other contributing factors. Depending on the position offered, this role may be eligible for annual discretionary bonuses, equity and other forms of compensation outside of the targeted range. For more information on benefits at Q-CTRL, please visit our careers page at https://q-ctrl.com/careers.
Should you have any questions related to the compensation package, please speak directly with the Talent Acquisition representative.
About Q-CTRL
Q-CTRL is the global leader in AI-powered quantum control infrastructure software. We build the tools that make quantum technology useful, solving the hardest challenges in quantum computing and quantum sensing to deliver real-world impact.
Founded in 2017, we operate globally with offices in Sydney, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berlin, and Oxford. Our teams bring together technical and multi-disciplinary expertise across the product lifecycle, and we're hiring talent to help scale every part of the business. We work quickly to turn cutting-edge science into deployable technology.
In 2024 we raised US$113 million in Series B funding, the largest aggregate investment for a quantum software company. Six months later we delivered the first commercial quantum advantage with Ironstone Opal, our field-validated quantum navigation solution for defense and industry.
At Q-CTRL, we prioritize outcomes over hours. We offer flexibility, equity potential, and competitive benefits that reflect our high-performance culture. If you're ready to help shape the future of quantum, we'd love to hear from you!
Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Please be advised that our communications will only come from the @q-ctrl.com domain. All our active job postings are available on our company website.
To recruitment agencies, we do not accept unsolicited branded profiles and are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.