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Computer Chip Designer Jobs in Los Angeles, CA (NOW HIRING)

PCB Designer Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $80,000-$130,000/yr DOE Stellant Systems, Inc ... Mentor Graphics PADS, AutoCAD, Inventor, Creo, Solidworks or other mechanical CAD. * Chip and wire ...

PCB Designer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

PCB Designer Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $80,000-$130,000/yr DOE Stellant Systems, Inc ... Mentor Graphics PADS, AutoCAD, Inventor, Creo, Solidworks or other mechanical CAD. * Chip and wire ...

PCB Designer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

PCB Designer Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $80,000-$130,000/yr DOE Stellant Systems, Inc ... Mentor Graphics PADS, AutoCAD, Inventor, Creo, Solidworks or other mechanical CAD. * Chip and wire ...

Work with the integrated circuit designers and chip leads to determine the chip floor plan; this ... Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering and 1+ years of professional experience as ...

Photonics Chip Lead

Irvine, CA

$110K - $144K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related fields and 10-15 years of ... Our interviews are designed to evaluate your individual experience, thought process, and ...

... CAD & EDA tools, as well as chip designers from various product lines. Primary duties will include assessment of technology offerings and capabilities to meet design needs and drive alignment with ...

Hardware Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$108K - $172K/yr

... CAD & EDA tools, as well as chip designers from various product lines. Primary duties will include assessment of technology offerings and capabilities to meet design needs and drive alignment with ...

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Computer Chip Designer information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$10

$44

$108

How much do computer chip designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer chip designer in Los Angeles, CA is $44.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $62.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computer chip designer do?

A Computer Chip Designer is responsible for creating the architecture and layout of microchips used in computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. They use specialized software to design, simulate, and test integrated circuits to ensure they meet performance, power, and size requirements. The job involves close collaboration with hardware engineers, testing teams, and manufacturers to bring innovative chip designs from concept to production. Computer Chip Designers play a critical role in advancing technology by making devices faster, more efficient, and more capable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer chip designer?

To thrive as a Computer Chip Designer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and semiconductor physics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), CAD tools like Cadence or Synopsys, and knowledge of EDA (Electronic Design Automation) systems are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help designers succeed in complex, collaborative projects. These combined skills ensure that chip designs are innovative, efficient, and meet stringent performance and reliability standards in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by computer chip designers in collaborative projects?

Computer chip designers often work closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and verification specialists. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment across these diverse groups, especially when integrating complex design requirements and meeting tight deadlines. Additionally, balancing innovation with strict industry standards and manufacturing constraints can require careful negotiation and problem-solving. Adapting quickly to changes in project scope or technology is also a frequent challenge, making flexibility and teamwork essential for success.

What is the difference between Computer Chip Designer vs Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer Chip DesignerHardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, simulation toolsDevelopment labs, testing facilities, manufacturing environments
Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, tech firms, research institutionsElectronics manufacturing, product development, tech companies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for design focus and specializationBroader engineering roles involving hardware development

Computer Chip Designers focus on creating the architecture and design of integrated circuits using specialized software, while Hardware Engineers work on developing, testing, and implementing electronic hardware systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are computer chip designers in demand?

Computer chip designers are in high demand due to the growing need for advanced semiconductor technology in electronics, automotive, and telecommunications industries. Skilled professionals with knowledge of VLSI design, CAD tools, and industry standards are particularly sought after, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as technology advances.

How do you become a computer chip designer?

To become a computer chip designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog, and developing skills in circuit design and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, is essential. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree and a strong understanding of semiconductor manufacturing processes.

How much do computer chip designers make?

Computer chip designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in hardware description languages and experience with CAD tools can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Chip Designer jobs in Los Angeles, CA?

For Computer Chip Designer jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Chip Designer jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Chip Designer jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

Infographic showing various Computer Chip Designer job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,565 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Sr. Full Chip Physical Verification Engineer (Silicon Engineering)

Irvine, CA


SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$165K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

SR. FULL CHIP PHYSICAL VERIFICATION ENGINEER (SILICON ENGINEERING)

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe. 

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious engineer who will work alongside world-class cross-disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering, ASIC implementation). In this role, you will be developing cutting-edge next-generation silicon for deployment in space and ground infrastructures around the globe. These chips are enabling connectivity in places it has previously not been available, affordable or reliable. Your efforts will help deliver cutting-edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.   

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Own and execute full-chip DRC, LVS, ESD, PERC and antenna signoff using industry standard tools like Calibre, ICV, or Pegasus
  • Develop, maintain, and optimize physical verification flows for advanced node SoC's.
  • Interpret and implement foundry Design Rule Manuals (DRM) - translate rule updates into verified flow changes
  • Debug and resolve complex DRC/LVS violations across hierarchical full-chip designs
  • Perform ESD verification - validate protection strategies, current paths, and CDM/HBM compliance
  • Drive tapeout readiness by coordinating signoff across block and top-level and Hard IP design teams
  • Engage directly with foundry teams to resolve DRM ambiguities and waiver requests.
  • Develop/modify design flows as needed to meet the overall design quality of results and chip integration requirements.Leverage AI agents to automate rule deck validation, violation triage, and signoff reporting workflows

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or computer science
  • 5+ years of ASIC and/or physical design flow development experience in industry

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience and deep understanding of SOC top level physical design flows (floor-planning, I/O, bump & RDL planning, hard IP integration, partitioning, power/ground grid generation, pin assignment, DFT, partition hardening, special clock handling, feedthrough flows, special interface/interconnect planning and implementation)
  • Experience in IP integration (e.g. memories, I/O's, analog IPs, SerDes, DDR etc.)
  • Deep expertise in DRC, LVS, PERC and ESD verification methodologies
  • Hands-on proficiency with Calibre, ICV (IC Validator), or Pegasus
  • Direct foundry DRM experience - able to read, interpret, and implement complex rule decks
  • Experience at advanced nodes (4nm and below)
  • Experience with large SOC designs (>10M gates) with frequencies in excess of 1GHZ
  • Excellent scripting skills (csh/bash, Perl, Python TCL, Makefile etc.)
  • Self-driven individual with a can-do attitude, and an ability to work in a dynamic group environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:    

  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones    

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    
Physical Design Engineer/Senior: $165,000.00 - $260,000.00/per year    
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.


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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US


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