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Computer Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, 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.

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, 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 ...

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$158K - $194K/yr

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 ...

Socket.dev

Senior Computer Vision Architect

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$250 - $350/hr

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 ...

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$158K - $194K/yr

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 ...

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, 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 ...

SiFive

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 ...

SiFive

Core Performance Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$158K - $194K/yr

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 ...

Apple Inc.

Senior Computer Vision Architect

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$216 - $394/hr

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 ...

Apple

Senior Computer Vision Architect

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$216K - $394K/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 ...

Cerebras Systems, Inc.

ASIC Architect

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Strong background in computer architecture and key high level architectural trade-offs ... Comfortable standing up new performance models from scratch in Python or similar analytical ...

Apple

Senior Computer Vision Architect

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

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 ...

Micron Technology

System Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$146 - $286/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field * Strong experience with computer architecture analysis, system-level design, and ...

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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 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.
More about Computer Architect jobs

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:

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

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

Computer Architect jobs near you
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.

Principal Performance Modeling Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
The Role:
Architect, Analyze and optimize high-performance SoCs for Cloud computing, and machine learning acceleration. Propose solutions to enhance performance and optimize power. Explore, analyze and optimize next-generation data center systems.
The Person:
Do you seek the most sophisticated challenges in the computing industry? As a passionate system performance architect on our design engineering team, you will propose and implement solutions to our next generation GPU SoC and data center system application performance issues.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Serve as a Performance Architect in AMD's electronics design engineering team.
  • Participate in microarchitecture exploration, performance modeling, and analysis for next-generation GPU and data center systems.
  • Intimately understand design architecture and propose solutions to enhance performance
  • Responsible for micro-benchmarking, workload characterization, competitive analysis, bottleneck identification, and optimization.
  • Develop tools and methodology for performance analysis of workloads.
  • Communicate, propose, and implement solutions to processor and system performance issues.

Preferred Experience:
  • Experience with GPU, CPU or computer system microarchitecture
  • Experience with the development and usage of computer system performance models
  • Experience with computer workload analysis
  • Strong programming skills, including experience with C++ and Python (or similar)

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:
  • PhD in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field of study + 5 years of experience.
  • MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field of study plus 8 years of experience as a Computer Architect, Design Engineer, or in a closely related processor design role
  • Bachelors plus 12 years of relevant experience.

Academic Credentials:
  • Bachelors, Masters, or PhD degree in Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or a closely related field
  • Masters or PhD with emphasis on Computer Architecture performance studies preferred

Location:
Austin TX preferred; Santa Clara, CA
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
#LI-RL1
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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