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Computer Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

System Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$146K - $286K/yr

D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of professional experience in system architecture, performance modeling, computer ...

System Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$146K - $286K/yr

D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of professional experience in system architecture, performance modeling, computer ...

System Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$146 - $286/hr

D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.5+ years of professional experience in system architecture, performance modeling, computer ...

A PhD with a focus in computer architecture is a plus. * 6+ years of meaningful work experience in GPU or CPU Architecture and development specifically in the area of memory caching and interconnects.

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (EE), Computer Science (CS), Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience. * 15 years of industry experience in memory controller architecture ...

Systems Performance Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$206K/yr

The System Performance Architecture team is responsible for all aspects of performance spanning ... This position is a multi-disciplinary engineering role encompassing computer system design ...

MS or PhD in Computer Science / Computer Architecture. * 10+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 5+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products.

MS or PhD in Computer Science / Computer Architecture. * 10+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 5+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products.

MS or PhD in Computer Science / Computer Architecture. * 10+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 5+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products.

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 1+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 1+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 3+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 3+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 1+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 1+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 1+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 1+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$178K - $218K/yr

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 3+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 3+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

MS in Computer Science / Computer Architecture * 3+ years of experience in high performance processor development * 3+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW or SW products. * Hands-on ...

Showing results 21-40

Computer Architect information

See California salary details

$157.4K

$172.7K

$186.5K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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 is a computer architect?

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 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.

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.

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 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.

Are computer architects in demand?

Computer architects are in high demand due to the increasing need for advanced hardware design, system optimization, and integration of emerging technologies like AI and IoT. They typically require strong knowledge of hardware description languages, system architecture, and often hold advanced degrees or certifications, making their skills valuable across technology sectors.

How much do computer architects make?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in digital design, knowledge of hardware description languages, and certifications can influence earning potential.

What is the work of a computer architect?

A computer architect designs and develops the overall structure of computer systems, including hardware components and their interactions. They analyze performance requirements, create specifications, and often work with hardware engineers to implement efficient and scalable computer architectures. Strong knowledge of computer hardware, systems design, and programming is essential for this role.

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

The most popular types of Computer Architect jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Architect jobs in California?

For Computer Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Computer Architect jobs?

Cities in California with the most Computer Architect job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,708 per year, or $83 per hour.

$146 - $286/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Our vision is to transform how the world uses information to enrich life for all. Micron Technology is a world leader in innovating memory and storage solutions that accelerate the transformation of information into intelligence, inspiring the world to learn, communicate and advance faster than ever. Micron is seeking a System Architect to lead performance modeling and analysis of next‑generation memory architectures for AI, server, data center, and mobile platforms. In this role, you'll conduct open‑and closed‑loop performance analysis to evaluate advanced memory solutions against existing paradigms, partnering with internal engineering teams and external customers to shape future product and technology decisions. You'll build, calibrate, and validate timing‑approximate and cycle‑accurate models across memory devices, controllers, interconnects, processors, and full SoC subsystems—then translate results into architecture guidance that influences real product direction. This role spans the full modeling lifecycle, from component‑level analysis to full system‑level benchmarking.

Responsibilities
  • Develop, calibrate, and maintain timing‑approximate and cycle‑accurate models of memory devices, controllers, interconnects, processors, and SoC subsystems.
  • Perform component‑ and system‑level performance analysis, benchmarking, and characterization across AI, server, and mobile workloads.
  • Select simulation tools and environments, generate or acquire representative workloads, and build performance monitoring for metrics such as latency, bandwidth, energy, and cycle‑level statistics.
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams and external customers to optimize architectures and provide data‑driven guidance on microarchitecture tradeoffs.
  • Integrate and document models into larger SoC‑and platform‑level performance frameworks, identifying bottlenecks and recommending corrective actions.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in system architecture, performance modeling, computer architecture, SoC design, or memory systems.
  • Demonstrated experience developing cycle‑accurate models for interconnects and memory controllers in large SoC projects.
  • Strong knowledge of hardware systems modeling, including modeling languages and simulation environments.
  • Proficiency with programming and scripting languages such as C++ or Python.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) focused on computer architecture, memory systems, or high‑performance computing.
  • Experience with architectural simulation tools such as gem5, SystemC, SST, or Sniper.
  • Deep understanding of DRAM architecture, memory hierarchy design, and cache‑coherent systems.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML, data center, HPC, or mobile system workloads and modeling performance, power, and QoS characteristics.
  • Proven success influencing product architecture decisions through quantitative analysis and collaborating with external partners.
Salary and Benefits

The US base salary range that Micron Technology estimates it could pay for this full‑time position is: $146,000.00 - $286,000.00 a year. Additional compensation may include benefits, bonuses and equity. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target base pay for new hire salaries of the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional job‑related factors, including knowledge, skills, experience, tenure and relevant education or training. The pay scale is subject to change depending on business needs. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.

Micron is dedicated to your personal wellbeing and professional growth. Micron benefits are designed to help you stay well, provide peace of mind and help you prepare for the future. We offer a choice of medical, dental and vision plans in all locations enabling team members to select the plans that best meet their family healthcare needs and budget. Micron also provides benefit programs that help protect your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, and paid family leave. Additionally, Micron benefits include a robust paid time‑off program and paid holidays. For additional information regarding the benefit programs available, please see the Benefits Guide posted on micron.com/careers/benefits.

Micron is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. To learn about your right to work click here. To learn more about Micron, please visit micron.com/careers

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