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Computer Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apex Informatics

Computer Vision Engineer V

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$132K - $156K/yr

Top Skill need solid DSP SW Engineer with recent exp in CV Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science or equivalent relevant experience. • 5+ years of ...

Sentradel

Computer Vision Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $210K/yr

We are seeking a Computer Vision Engineer to build the perception stack and push the limits on detection range using low cost sensors and edge compute. Responsibilities • Build and own the ...

Skild AI

Computer Vision AI & ML Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$127K - $149K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Computer Vision AI & ML Engineer to design, build, and deploy advanced perception systems for real-world robotics and automation. You will work across the full ...

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All JobsComputer Engineer JobsComputer Engineer Jobs in California

Computer Engineer information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$119.9K

$135.7K

How much do computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineer in California is $119,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually, often with extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes in leadership roles or high-demand industries. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, with some professionals also earning through stock options or bonuses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and hardware/software design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C/C++ or Python), circuit design tools, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco are highly valuable. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure that computer engineers can design, implement, and optimize systems that meet technical requirements and business goals.

Are computer engineers highly paid?

Computer engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other professions, especially with experience, specialized skills, and certifications in areas like hardware design, software development, or network systems. Salary levels can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, but overall, the profession is considered well-compensated.

What is the difference between Computer Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco, CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; certifications like Microsoft, AWS
Work EnvironmentDesigning hardware, embedded systems, and software integration in labs or officesWriting, testing, and maintaining software applications in offices or remote setups
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunications, embedded systemsIT firms, software companies, startups, enterprise software development

Computer Engineers focus on both hardware and software systems, often working on embedded systems and hardware integration. Software Developers primarily create and maintain software applications. While their roles overlap in programming, Computer Engineers have a broader scope including hardware design, whereas Software Developers specialize in software solutions.

What jobs does a Computer Engineer do?

A Computer Engineer designs, develops, and tests computer hardware and software systems. They work on creating integrated circuits, embedded systems, and computer networks, often using programming languages and engineering principles. Their work may involve troubleshooting, system optimization, and collaborating with software developers and other engineers.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of high base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Such compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and work at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What Is a Computer Engineer?

A computer engineer designs, researches, tests, and develops computer equipment and software such as circuit boards, chips, routers, and application programs. Computer engineers analyze complex equipment and systems to understand the best way to improve it. They create new types of information technology devices and use logic and reasoning to hone in on goals, test assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. Engineers often work in teams and have to be able to communicate with other types of engineers, including non-technical team members. Computer engineers make sure that components fit together properly and function according to the latest software developments.

What are computer engineers?

Computer engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software systems. They work at the intersection of electrical engineering and computer science, focusing on how computer systems function and how they can be improved. Their roles can involve creating microprocessors, designing circuit boards, developing embedded systems, and optimizing software for hardware performance. Computer engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology across industries, from consumer electronics to aerospace and healthcare.

What are common challenges computer engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Computer engineers often collaborate with software developers, hardware designers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and communication styles. Ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of system limitations and integration points is crucial, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or rework. Staying adaptable and proactively clarifying expectations helps computer engineers navigate these collaborative environments successfully.
More about Computer Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in California? For Computer Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in CA? For Computer Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,924 per year, or $57.7 per hour.
Embedded Software Computer Engineer

Embedded Software Computer Engineer

DCS Corp

Ridgecrest, CA

$82K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary Range: $82,004 - $107,593

Seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to join our team supporting ongoing F/A-18 aircraft software projects. These are multi-year initiatives for the U.S. Marine Corps and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers.

Essential Job Functions

Software Engineering support for new and evolving projects as well as sustainment of existing programs for F/A-18 Hornet.

Execute software engineering life-cycle activities in a managed, controlled, and efficient manner consistent with the established organizational processes.

Perform software engineering duties over the product life cycle environment, encompassing requirements development, requirements analysis, design, coding, unit testing, system integration, and problem investigation.

Participate in the technical peer review process to uphold best practices in code, architecture and requirement functionality.

Communication skills required, both verbally and in writing, to interface with an Integrated Product team that includes Systems and Software Engineers as well as technical leadership in both government and contractor roles.

Integrate Software with external Software Components from external entities.

Develop Software code in Assembly Language within an embedded environment.

Required Skills:

Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, with 2 plus years of related experience. Other engineering disciplines with strong software experience will be considered.

Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing.

Self-guided, inquisitive, and able to research, learn and work in very large code base to go from problem description to effective solution.

Ability to troubleshoot and debug issues.

Desired Skills

Bonus skills/interests: Experience relating to C#, embedded systems and low-level languages.

Experience with Bitbucket (git), Jira, Confluence, and Assembly.

DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

Social media

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