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Computer Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Archer

Computer Vision Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $260K/yr

Design and implement deep-learning and classical computer vision algorithms for real-time, embedded deployment * Perform sensor calibration and multi-sensor fusion across camera, lidar, and radar

Archer

Computer Vision Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $260K/yr

Design and implement deep-learning and classical computer vision algorithms for real-time, embedded deployment * Perform sensor calibration and multi-sensor fusion across camera, lidar, and radar

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

IC CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$124K/yr

As an IC CAD Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the Cadence Virtuoso platform and LEF file generation in a custom design environment at AMD. You will work with CAD team members to ...

Efficient Computer

Optimization Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

Efficient is developing the world's most energy-efficient general-purpose computer processor ... Efficient's Optimization Engineers optimize and benchmark applications, libraries, and kernels for ...

Efficient Computer

Applications Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $210K/yr

Efficient Computer is seeking a Applications Engineer to bridge the gap between our groundbreaking hardware and real-world customer applications. In this role, you will design and implement embedded ...

Efficient Computer

Applications Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $210K/yr

Efficient is developing the world's most energy-efficient general-purpose computer processor ... Key Responsibilities * Customer Engagement & Application Engineering * Partner directly with ...

NuByt, Inc

Be Seen First

Senior CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$90 - $100/hr

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Staff CAD Engineer to lead and advance EDA design flows, CAD infrastructure, and signoff methodologies for next-generation semiconductor products. This ...

Micron

New College Grad - EDA/CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$64K - $159K/yr

The Memory CAD Engineering organization plays a critical role in enabling Micron's custom memory design teams through advanced design automation, workflow innovation, and engineering productivity ...

Micron

New College Grad - EDA/CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$64K - $159K/yr

The Memory CAD Engineering organization plays a critical role in enabling Micron's custom memory design teams through advanced design automation, workflow innovation, and engineering productivity ...

Super Micro Computer

System Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or Computer Science • 1+ years of work-related experience in Deep Learning and Machine Learning • ...

Super Micro Computer

Application Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

BSEE or Computer Engineering, MSEE or Computer Engineering with 2+ years of relevant experience preferred * Deep knowledge in latest Server CPU and GPU Server product offerings and design features.

Super Micro Computer

Application Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$88K - $95K/yr

Supermicro is looking for talented and passionate Application Engineer who has in-depth knowledge in computer / server architecture. You will be responsible in validating/troubleshooting the cutting ...

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All JobsComputer Engineer JobsComputer Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Computer Engineer information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$56K

$140.3K

$158.8K

How much do computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineer in Santa Cruz, CA is $140,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,700.00 and $151,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, location, and specialization. In general, they are among the higher-paid engineering professionals, especially those with skills in software development, hardware design, or cybersecurity. Advanced certifications and expertise in programming languages or systems can further increase earning potential.

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 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 kind of jobs do computer engineers have?

Computer engineers work in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware and software systems. They may be involved in areas such as embedded systems, network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software development, often requiring knowledge of programming languages and engineering principles.

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 Santa Cruz, CA? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA? For Computer Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Computer Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Computer Engineer job openings:
Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Engineer job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 77% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,309 per year, or $67.5 per hour.

Computer Vision Engineer - Autonomy & Perception

Pivotal

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$131K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market. 
 
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026. 
 
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

The Autonomy team at Pivotal develops advanced autonomy capabilities for our aircraft, enabling safe, precise, and reliable mission execution from takeoff to landing. We are seeking a Computer Vision Engineer to support the development of next-generation perception systems for our autonomous aerial platforms, including the Helix family of systems. 

In this role, you will collaborate with autonomy, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), flight software, and AI engineers to design, implement, and deploy computer vision algorithms that operate effectively in dynamic, real-world environments. You will work across object detection, tracking, visual localization, scene understanding, sensor fusion, and perception-driven autonomy to enable robust autonomous operations in challenging mission scenarios. 

The ideal candidate combines strong computer vision fundamentals with practical experience deploying perception systems on robotic or autonomous platforms. You will play a key role in developing vision capabilities that support navigation, obstacle avoidance, target tracking, and mission autonomy while contributing to the broader autonomy stack deployed on operational aircraft. 

Responsibilities

  • Perception & Computer Vision: Design and develop perception systems for autonomous aerial platforms operating in GPS-denied and contested environments; implement object detection, classification, segmentation, and tracking algorithms using RGB, thermal, and multimodal sensor data; develop visual perception pipelines for obstacle detection, collision avoidance, and situational awareness; build scene understanding capabilities to support autonomous navigation and mission execution; evaluate and integrate state-of-the-art computer vision and AI techniques into operational systems. 

  • Visual Navigation & Localization: Develop visual-inertial odometry, localization, and mapping algorithms; implement vision-based navigation solutions for degraded and GPS-denied environments; support SLAM and feature-based localization systems; design robust estimation methods that fuse camera, IMU, GPS, lidar, and radar data; improve navigation performance through sensor fusion and environmental awareness. 

  • Machine Learning & AI: Develop, train, and deploy deep learning models for onboard perception; create data processing, labeling, augmentation, and evaluation pipelines; optimize neural networks for real-time inference on embedded computing platforms; analyze model performance and improve robustness across operational conditions; support deployment of perception models on edge AI hardware. 

  • Camera Systems & Sensor Integration: Integrate and evaluate diverse imaging systems including RGB, stereo, fisheye, thermal, and event-based cameras; develop camera calibration workflows and sensor characterization procedures; support multi-camera synchronization and calibration efforts; improve image quality, calibration accuracy, and perception system reliability; collaborate with hardware teams to evaluate and integrate emerging sensor technologies. 

  • Testing & Validation: Develop simulation and testing frameworks for perception algorithms; support software-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop, and flight testing activities; analyze flight data to identify performance gaps and improve perception robustness; establish metrics and validation procedures for autonomous perception systems; document system performance and support field deployments. 

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field. 

  • Experience: 2-4 years of industry experience in computer vision, robotics, machine learning, or autonomous systems OR Master's degree with 1-2 years of industry experience. 

  • Strong proficiency in C++, Python, or Rust. 

  • Experience with OpenCV and modern computer vision frameworks. 

  • Experience developing perception systems using PyTorch, TensorFlow, or similar machine learning frameworks. 

  • Strong understanding of image processing, geometric vision, and camera systems. 

  • Experience with object detection, tracking, segmentation, and machine learning-based perception algorithms. 

  • Familiarity with sensor fusion and state estimation techniques. 

  • Experience with ROS/ROS2 or similar robotics middleware. 

  • Experience developing software in Linux environments. 

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or PhD in Computer Vision, Robotics, Machine Learning, Computer Science, or a related field. 
  • Experience with autonomous aircraft, UAVs, robotics, or aerospace systems. 
  • Experience with visual SLAM, visual-inertial odometry, or localization systems. 
  • Knowledge of camera calibration, multi-camera systems, and geometric computer vision. 
  • Experience integrating lidar, radar, thermal cameras, and inertial sensors into perception systems. 
  • Experience deploying AI models on embedded platforms such as NVIDIA Jetson or similar edge computing hardware. 
  • Familiarity with simulation environments such as Gazebo, Isaac Sim, AirSim, or equivalent. 
  • Experience optimizing perception systems for real-time performance and resource-constrained platforms. 
  • Contributions to open-source robotics, autonomy, or computer vision projects. 
  • Familiarity with defense industry standards and security clearance processes. 
Attributes aligned with Core Values
  • Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily operations, identifying and mitigating risks through assessments and training, encouraging open dialogue on safety concerns, and continuously improving protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Puts customers at the center of every action by deeply understanding their challenges, delivering exceptional value, and striving to exceed expectations to support their success as our core purpose.
  • Actively seeks and values diverse stakeholder perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication-committing to shared decisions for the greater good.
  • Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes while aligning actions with a clear understanding of success at every level.
  • Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical best practices to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
  • Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support-balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.
$157,000 - $182,000 a year
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
 
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
 
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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