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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

Hardware Engineer, Test DevelopmentOnsite in Foster City \ 5 days in officeAs a hardware engineer ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

Hardware Engineer, Test DevelopmentOnsite in Foster City 5 days in officeAs a hardware engineer you ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA

$143K - $190K/yr

Hardware Engineer, Test DevelopmentOnsite in Foster City \ 5 days in officeAs a hardware engineer ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Kratos Defense

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

... Engineer to work in San Diego, CA. You will be a member of a small team at a U.S. Navy lab required ... Hardware may refer to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, networking systems ...

Kratos Defense

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA

$127K - $168K/yr

... Engineer to work in San Diego, CA. You will be a member of a small team at a U.S. Navy lab required ... Hardware may refer to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, networking systems ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

Prescient Edge

Computer Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $139K/yr

Computer hardware and software engineers' research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software programs. * Hardware refers to computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and ...

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Computer Hardware Engineer information

See California salary details

$108.1K

$143.6K

$176.2K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in California is $143,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $168,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer hardware engineer?

Computer hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work to ensure that computer hardware functions efficiently and integrates seamlessly with software. These engineers are often involved in research, prototyping, and overseeing the manufacturing of hardware equipment. Their work is crucial in advancing technology and improving the performance of computer systems.

What do computer hardware engineers do?

Computer hardware engineers design and test new computer hardware components, such as screens, motherboards, and memory. They may also work with products that include a computer system, such as cars, home entertainment components, and appliances that connect to the internet. Your responsibilities include creating design drawings and collaborating with manufacturers to ensure the devices are produced to specifications. You may also work with software developers to ensure compatibility. You must be able to read and design technical drawings and be able to communicate effectively with all participants in the project.

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

To thrive as a Computer Hardware Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, computer architecture, and circuit design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer or electrical engineering. Familiarity with hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), CAD software, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco is often important. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate and innovate within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the effective design, testing, and optimization of reliable hardware systems that meet modern computing needs.

What are some common challenges faced by computer hardware engineers in collaborative projects with software teams?

Computer hardware engineers often collaborate closely with software developers to ensure seamless integration between hardware components and software applications. A frequent challenge is aligning timelines and technical requirements, as hardware development cycles can differ from software schedules. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both disciplines are essential to address compatibility issues and meet project deadlines. Building strong cross-functional relationships helps resolve these challenges and leads to successful product development.

What is the difference between Computer Hardware Engineer vs Computer Network Architect?

AspectComputer Hardware EngineerComputer Network Architect
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco CCNA are commonBachelor's in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like Cisco CCNP are typical
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and developing computer hardware; labs and engineering facilitiesDesigning and implementing network systems; offices and data centers
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware manufacturing, research labsTelecommunications, large enterprises, data centers

Computer Hardware Engineers focus on designing and developing physical computer components, while Computer Network Architects plan and build data communication networks. Both roles require technical certifications and often work in technology-driven environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly in scope and focus.

What exactly does a computer hardware engineer do?

A computer hardware engineer designs, develops, tests, and improves computer components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They often work with CAD software, troubleshoot hardware issues, and ensure compatibility with software systems, requiring knowledge of electronics and engineering principles.
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Computer Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,594 per year, or $69 per hour.

Principal / Sr. Principal Computer Hardware Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Northrop Grumman Corporationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Principal / Sr. Principal Computer Hardware Engineer to join the F-35 Mission Systems team. This position is located onsite in Redondo Beach, CA.
The selected candidate will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining computer system hardware racks and workstations that are used by the F-35 software developers to accomplish their software development and delivery tasks.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Build rack mounted and workstation HPE systems using available frames and motherboards, CPUs, memory, and disks.
  • Design, construct, and maintain computer racks consisting of HPE systems, switches and firewalls, tape libraries, and other needed peripherals in a professional manner for both classified and unclassified environments.
  • Design and implement safe networking strategies between the enterprise network and our F35 project network, and among the various developer workstations.
  • Load and configure all rack-mounted systems and peripherals and developer workstations per project requirements.
  • Produce professional drawings of the F35 developer network.
  • Investigate, install, and maintain other software products as required.

We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule, phenomenal learning opportunities, and a very friendly team environment
This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Computer Hardware Engineer level 3 or a Sr. Principal Computer Hardware Engineer level 4
Basic Qualifications for a Principal Computer Hardware Engineer (level 3):
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 5 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related engineering experience; OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 1 years of related engineering experience.
  • Prior professional experience constructing and maintaining computer hardware racks and workstations for unclassified and classified environments.
  • Prior professional experience with software loading and administration of racked systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to investigate and solve configuration issues related to the use of various software tools.
  • Prior professional experience with the installation and configuration of network switches and firewalls.
  • Working familiarity with Linux system administration.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government clearance and Special Access Program (SAP) within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.

Basic Qualifications for a Sr. Principal Computer Hardware Engineer (level 4):
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 8 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 6 years of related engineering experience; OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 4 years of related engineering experience.
  • Prior professional experience constructing and maintaining computer hardware racks and workstations for unclassified and classified environments.
  • Prior professional experience with software loading and administration of racked systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to investigate and solve configuration issues related to the use of various software tools.
  • Prior professional experience with the installation and configuration of network switches and firewalls.
  • Working familiarity with Linux system administration.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government clearance and Special Access Program (SAP) within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.

Preferred Qualifications for both a Principal and Sr. Principal Computer Hardware Engineer:
  • Familiarity with configuration and administration of SUSE Linux, LDAP, and Samba.
  • Familiarity with Lynx OS real-time software.
  • Familiarity with LDRA and Coverity security scanning tools.
  • Experience setting up FlexLM license manager servers.
  • Experience selecting needed hardware and software from vendors and working with a purchasing department to acquire the identified products.

Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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