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Computer Architect Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Basic knowledge of computer hardware and architecture (FPGAs, RISC‑V, ARM, MIPS), programming languages (C/C++/C#, Python, or Java), hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog), and circuit ...

... computer architecture and computer hardware optimization techniques • Knowledge of the development of software drivers for the operation of computer hardware interfaces • Knowledge in common ...

Senior Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$116K - $160K/yr

Preferred : • Working knowledge of computer architecture and computer hardware optimization techniques. • Extensive knowledge of common computer hardware interface and data protocols such as TCP ...

Showing results 21-40

Computer Architect information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$137.1K

$150.4K

$162.5K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Tucson, AZ is $150,446.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,000.00 and $156,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Computer Architect jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Computer Architect job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,446 per year, or $72.3 per hour.

Entry Level Hardware Developer-Tucson-AZ

IBM

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


IBM rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

125th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

Introduction
At IBM, work is more than a job - it's a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To think along with clients and sell. To make markets. To invent. To collaborate. Not just to do something better, but to attempt things you've never thought possible. Are you ready to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems? If so, lets talk
Your role and responsibilities
As a Developer at IBM, you'll get to work on the systems that are driving the quantum revolution and the AI era. Join our team of creators - the people who help move IBM forward by using their imagination to envision solutions, their curiosity to experiment with new ideas, and their ever-growing skills into action for customers to make better decisions with greater speed on the most trusted platforms in today's market.
IBM has openings for Hardware Development Engineers to develop, test and provide customer support for hardware, firmware and semiconductors that make up our industry- leading IBM products. We are an elite team of engineering professionals that pioneer innovations for the cutting-edge microprocessors and hardware used in IBM infrastructure including IBM zSystems, IBM Power Systems, IBM Storage, and IBM Quantum Systems. Development engineers participate in various aspects of the development, test, and support process, such as:
* Logic (RTL) design and verification, physical design, and analog/IO design
* Electronic design automation
* Signal integrity, power integrity, and analysis
* Microelectronics packaging
* Materials analysis and characterization
* Mechanical design, modeling and technology integration
* Circuit design / electrical design
* Printed circuit board physical design and layout
* Thermal design and testing
* Voltage regulation and power delivery
* Performance modeling
* Processor and system test and validation
* Processor, component, and system characterization
* Customer and field engineering support
* Firmware architecture, development, and test failure analysis
* Product quality, assurance, specification and analytics
* Candidates with at least three months of computer or electrical engineering experience of designing or manufacturing hardware products are preferred. Basic knowledge of computer hardware and architecture (FPGAs, RISC-V, ARM, MIPS), programming languages (C/C++/C#, Python, or Java), hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog), and circuit simulation tools (SPICE) is preferred.
Required education
High School Diploma/GED
Preferred education
Bachelor's Degree
Required technical and professional expertise
* Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in: Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Optics Engineering, Biomedical Engineering or related majors.
* Prior (project or internship) experience in computer hardware or testing.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills.
* Passion for technology and engineering.
* Growth minded, trusted, team focused, courageous, resourceful, and outcome focused.
Preferred technical and professional experience
Proficiency in one or more of the following technology areas:
* Microprocessor/ASIC Design Skills: VHDL, Verilog, RTL, SPICE, TCL, UVM, verification, and testing
* Computer Architecture coursework: VLSI Design, Microprocessors, Computer Architecture and Organization, Signal Integrity (Electromagnetics, RF, etc)
* Programming Skills: C/C++ or another object-oriented language, Git, Linux, GDB or another debugger, Agile practices
* Scripting Skills: Python, APDL, TCL, Bash, Perl, or Java
* Proficiency in CAD tools and 3D modeling
* Familiarity with various hardware architectures: VLSI, FPGA, MIPS, RISC-V, Arm, x86, Arduino, Quantum systems
ABOUT BUSINESS UNIT
IBM Systems helps IT leaders think differently about their infrastructure. IBM servers and storage are no longer inanimate - they can understand, reason, and learn so our clients can innovate while avoiding IT issues. Our systems power the world's most important industries and our clients are the architects of the future. Join us to help build our leading-edge technology portfolio designed for cognitive business and optimized for cloud computing.
YOUR LIFE @ IBM
In a world where technology never stands still, we understand that, dedication to our clients success, innovation that matters, and trust and personal responsibility in all our relationships, lives in what we do as IBMers as we strive to be the catalyst that makes the world work better.
Being an IBMer means you'll be able to learn and develop yourself and your career, you'll be encouraged to be courageous and experiment everyday, all whilst having continuous trust and support in an environment where everyone can thrive whatever their personal or professional background.
Our IBMers are growth minded, always staying curious, open to feedback and learning new information and skills to constantly transform themselves and our company. They are trusted to provide on-going feedback to help other IBMers grow, as well as collaborate with colleagues keeping in mind a team focused approach to include different perspectives to drive exceptional outcomes for our customers. The courage our IBMers have to make critical decisions everyday is essential to IBM becoming the catalyst for progress, always embracing challenges with resources they have to hand, a can-do attitude and always striving for an outcome focused approach within everything that they do.
Are you ready to be an IBMer?
ABOUT IBM
IBM's greatest invention is the IBMer. We believe that through the application of intelligence, reason and science, we can improve business, society and the human condition, bringing the power of an open hybrid cloud and AI strategy to life for our clients and partners around the world.
Restlessly reinventing since 1911, we are not only one of the largest corporate organizations in the world, we're also one of the biggest technology and consulting employers, with many of the Fortune 500 companies relying on the IBM Cloud to run their business.
At IBM, we pride ourselves on being an early adopter of artificial intelligence, quantum computing and blockchain. Now it's time for you to join us on our journey to being a responsible technology innovator and a force for good in the world.
IBM is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, or other characteristics protected by the applicable law. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.
OTHER RELEVANT JOB DETAILS
IBM offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program. Eligible employees may have access to:
- Healthcare benefits including medical & prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and mental health & well being
- Financial programs such as 401(k), cash balance pension plan, the IBM Employee Stock Purchase Plan, financial counseling, life insurance, short & long- term disability coverage, and opportunities for performance based salary incentive programs
- Generous paid time off including 12 holidays, minimum 56 hours sick time, 120 hours vacation, 12 weeks parental bonding leave in accordance with IBM Policy, and other Paid Care Leave programs. IBM also offers paid family leave benefits to eligible employees where required by applicable law
- Training and educational resources on our personalized, AI-driven learning platform where IBMers can grow skills and obtain industry-recognized certifications to achieve their career goals
- Diverse and inclusive employee resource groups, giving & volunteer opportunities, and discounts on retail products, services & experiences
We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable law.
This position was posted on the date cited in the key job details section and is anticipated to remain posted for 21 days from this date or less if not needed to fill the role.
IBM will not be providing visa sponsorship for this position now or in the future. Therefore, in order to be considered for this position, you must have the ability to work without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.
The compensation range and benefits for this position are based on a full-time schedule for a full calendar year. The salary will vary depending on your job-related skills, experience and location. Pay increment and frequency of pay will be in accordance with employment classification and applicable laws. For part time roles, your compensation and benefits will be adjusted to reflect your hours. Benefits may be pro-rated for those who start working during the calendar year.

What IBM employees say

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About IBM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At IBM, work is more than a job - it's a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To think along with clients and sell. To make markets. To invent. To collaborate. Not just to do something better, but to attempt things you've never thought possible. Are you ready to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems? If so, lets talk.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Armonk, NY, US

Year founded

1911

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