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Computer Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Efficient Computer

Computer Architect

San Jose, CA

$160K - $220K/yr

Efficient is hiring an Computer Architect with experience in design-space exploration across the hardware-software interface. We seek individuals who are comfortable designing and executing ...

Apple

Real-Time Computer Vision Architect

Sunnyvale, CA

$181K - $318K/yr

Description The Architecture team within our organization is responsible for bringing together computer vision algorithms, firmware, and low-level software teams to drive some of the most exciting ...

Etched

ASIC Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$200K - $265K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a talented Computer Architect to join our architecture team and contribute to the design of next-generation AI accelerators. This role focuses on developing and optimizing ...

Etched

ASIC Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$200K - $265K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a talented Computer Architect to join our architecture team and contribute to the design of next-generation AI accelerators. This role focuses on developing and optimizing ...

Nvidia

Senior GPU Memory Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

NVIDIA is seeking a world-class computer architect to contribute to the development of future high-performance computing systems, with a focus on enhancing the power-constrained performance of the ...

Nvidia

Senior GPU Memory Architect

Santa Clara, CA

NVIDIA is seeking a world-class computer architect to contribute to the development of future high-performance computing systems, with a focus on enhancing the power-constrained performance of the ...

Nvidia

Senior GPU Memory Architect

Santa Clara, CA

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than ... We are seeking a world-class computer architect to contribute to the development of future high ...

Qualcomm

Computer Vision Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

The group's work spans across computer vision algorithm development, CV accelerator architecture, and on-device prototyping. If you're passionate about shaping the future of on-device vision ...

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All JobsComputer Architect JobsComputer Architect Jobs in California

Computer Architect information

See California salary details

$157.4K

$172.7K

$186.5K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in California is $172,708.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $165,300.00 and $180,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get with computer architecture?

A computer architect can pursue roles such as hardware engineer, systems architect, FPGA designer, or embedded systems developer. These positions involve designing, developing, and optimizing computer hardware and systems, often requiring knowledge of digital design, programming, and hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog.

What Does a Computer Architect Do?

A computer architect designs software to enhance a company’s network performance. As a computer architect, you design software, write algorithms, and engineer new systems to improve performance and function goals. Your responsibilities include maintaining data and putting together new components to help the business systems run more efficiently based on the company’s needs. Computer architects may also work with computer hardware, researching, developing, designing, and testing computer equipment.

How does a Computer Architect typically collaborate with hardware and software teams during a project?

Computer Architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between hardware and software teams to ensure system designs are both innovative and practical. They regularly participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss requirements, performance goals, and potential design trade-offs. By working closely with hardware engineers, they help define processor specifications and system layouts, while collaborating with software developers to optimize code for the architecture. This collaborative environment allows Computer Architects to influence both the physical hardware and the software that runs on it, ensuring overall system efficiency.

What are Computer Architects?

Computer Architects are professionals who design and develop the structure and functionality of computer systems, including processors, memory systems, and data pathways. They focus on optimizing performance, energy efficiency, and scalability to meet specific computing needs. Computer Architects often work closely with hardware and software engineers to create innovative computing solutions for industries ranging from consumer electronics to high-performance computing. Their work is critical in shaping the capabilities and efficiency of modern computers.

What is the difference between Computer Architect vs Computer Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer ArchitectComputer Hardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in computer science, computer engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning computer systems, often in R&D or design firmsDeveloping, testing, and manufacturing hardware components in labs or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed in designing new computer architectures for CPUs, GPUs, and systemsUsed in creating physical hardware components like circuit boards, processors, and peripherals

Computer Architects focus on designing the overall structure and architecture of computer systems, while Computer Hardware Engineers work on developing and testing the physical hardware components. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their focus areas within the computing industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Architect, you need deep knowledge of computer hardware design, digital logic, and computer organization, usually backed by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, simulation tools, and performance analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for designing efficient, high-performance computing systems that meet organizational and technological needs.
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Computer Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $172,708 per year, or $83 per hour.

Computer Architect

Efficient Computer

San Jose, CA

$160K - $220K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Efficient is developing the world’s most energy-efficient general-purpose computer processor. Efficient’s patented technology uses 100x less energy than state of the art commercially available ultra-low-power processors and is programmable using standard high-level programming languages and AI/ML frameworks. This level of efficiency makes perpetual, pervasive intelligence possible: run AI/ML continuously on a AA battery for 5-10 years. Our platform’s unprecedented level of efficiency enables IoT devices to intelligently capture and curate first-party data to drive the next major computing revolution


If you are a Computer Architect who wants to impact the transformation of the next evolution of computing, we would like to talk to you. Efficient is hiring an Computer Architect with experience in design-space exploration across the hardware-software interface. We seek individuals who are comfortable designing and executing experiments and interpreting and visualizing data.

This is a unique opportunity to get in at the ground level and have influence on our products as we move from initial stages of product development to market release and scaled volume production. Join our team and help us shape the future of computing at the edge and beyond!


Key Responsibilities

  • Work with Compiler and Digital Design teams to define the hardware-software interface for Efficient’s Fabric architecture.
  • Work with Applications and Embedded teams to analyze the performance and efficiency of key applications on the Fabric and competing architectures.
  • Build simulation infrastructure to quickly and accurately model the performance of the Fabric.
  • Build visualization dashboard infrastructure to continuously monitor the performance and efficiency of the Fabric architecture.
  • Design & execute experiments to perform a design-space exploration of the Fabric architecture and optimize it for key applications.
  • Collect and analyze data from design-space explorations.
  • Write internal reports, white papers, and research publications on the Fabric architecture.

  • Required Qualifications

    • Master’s degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering and 3+ years of industry experience, or a doctoral degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering.
    • Extensive experience (3+ years) in designing and implementing architectural/microarchitectural simulators.
    • Excellent coding skills in C++, Bash, and Python.
    • Familiarity with data analysis and visualization tools like numpy, matplotlib, and Mathematica.
    • Excellent technical communication skills in presentation and writing.

  • Preferred Qualifications

    • Track record of research publications in computer architecture.

  • We offer a competitive salary for this role, generally ranging from $160,000 to $220,000, along with meaningful equity and comprehensive benefits. The final compensation package will be based on your experience and location, with some flexibility to ensure we align with the right candidate.

    • Apply