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Computer Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AI Memory Solution Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$73.75 - $97.25/hr

Leveraging your deep understanding of computer architecture, you will lead and coordinate efforts between hardware and software teams. Your primary focus will be on creating optimal architectures and ...

Watch Systems Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$299K/yr

Description We are looking for a candidate with a strong foundation in Electrical and/or Computer ... or architecture Proficiency in developing simulations and data analysis scripts using Python ...

Senior GPU Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $206K/yr

Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering) or equivalent experience. * 3+ years of relevant computer architecture, ASIC design/verification, or software development experience.

Systems Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$184K - $324K/yr

Preferred Qualifications Solid understanding and experience in computer architecture Strong and proven software development and performance analysis skills Experience with performance on low level ...

Senior GPU Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $206K/yr

Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering) or equivalent experience. 3+ years of relevant computer architecture, ASIC design/verification, or software development experience.

Senior GPU Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $206K/yr

Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering) or equivalent experience. * 3+ years of relevant computer architecture, ASIC design/verification, or software development experience.

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 ...

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.

Senior GPU Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$184 - $287.50/hr

Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering) or equivalent experience.* 3+ years of relevant computer architecture, ASIC design/verification, or software development experience.

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.

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 ...

Computer Vision Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148.30 - $222.50/hr

Lead system‑ and algorithm‑level architecture definition, standard studies, and feature ... Bachelor's degree in Computer or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field and ...

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$254.34 - $310.86/hr

MS or PhD in Computer Science / Computer Architecture. * 10+ years of experience in high‑performance processor development. * 5+ years in an engineering team delivering hardware or software ...

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in ASIC design and computer architecture while demonstrating good system level design/architecture understanding. The candidate will be required to ...

SOC Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$254.34 - $310.86/hr

MS or PhD in Computer Science / Computer Architecture. * 10+ years of experience in SoC architecture. * 5+ years involved in the engineering team to deliver HW products. * Experience in SoC design ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science (or equivalent experience). * Strong understanding of computer architecture fundamentals, including ...

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$254K - $310K/yr

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.

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 Sep 6, 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 growing need for advanced hardware design, system optimization, and integration of emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing. They typically require strong knowledge of hardware description languages, system architecture, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in technology companies, research institutions, and manufacturing 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 degree do you need for computer architect?

A computer architect typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with strong knowledge of hardware design, systems architecture, and experience with programming and hardware description languages.

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 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, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,708 per year, or $83 per hour.

AI Memory Solution Architect

SK hynix America

San Jose, CA • On-site

$73.75 - $97.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title: AI Memory Solution Architect
Office Location: San Jose, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Model: Onsite 

Job Summary:

  • As a AI Memory Solution Architect, you will play a pivotal role in designing cutting-edge AI memory and storage solutions. Leveraging your deep understanding of computer architecture, you will lead and coordinate efforts between hardware and software teams. Your primary focus will be on creating optimal architectures and collaborating closely with the performance analysis team to ensure the highest levels of efficiency.
  • You will work closely with our system software and hardware design teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of our energy-efficient AI system infrastructure.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform AI hardware/software system analysis to develop next-generation AI memory and storage solution architecture for energy-efficient AI/ML computing infrastructure, including memory and cache controllers, and system interconnects
  • Collaborate with hardware/software architects to ensure optimal hardware-software co-design and integration
  • Develop and deliver system level modeling and simulation environment for next-generation AI memory solutions
  • Deliver memory subsystems and IP designs including microarchitecture specification, RTL logic design, verification and FPGA prototypes
  • Optimize memory system architecture for performance, power efficiency, and scalability.
  • Develop and maintain hardware specifications, technical documentation, and test plans.
  • Participate in technical discussions and provide input on hardware system design and architecture with industry ecosystem partners
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies in AI, memory systems, and hardware architecture.

Qualification:   

  • MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering, or related field with 8+ years (or Ph.D. with 4+ years) of experience in hardware design, with a focus on SoCs and memory subsystems.
  • Strong understanding of computer architecture, memory systems, and hardware design.
  • Proven track records of expertise in digital design including microarchitecture specification development, system modeling, RTL logic design, synthesis, timing closure and power-performance-area (PPA) analysis.
  • Good working knowledge or experience in various simulation framework such as QEMU, Gem5, DRAMPower, DRAM and other relevant open source simulators is a plus
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to debug complex system software issues.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work with cross-functional teams.
  • Familiarity with memory and interface technologies, such as DRAM, HBM, NVMe, CXL and PCIe is a plus

Benefits:

  • Top Tier health insurance at no employee cost
  • Paid day offs: Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Parental Leave, Happy Fridays
  • 401k Matching
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Health Care & Dependent Care
  • Educational reimbursement up to $10,000 per year
  • Donation Matching and volunteering opportunities
  • Corporate discount programs
  • Free Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner provided to employees

SK Hynix America logo

About SK Hynix America

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1983