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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wayve

Hardware Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · Hybrid

$185K - $247K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field Desirable Experience * Experience designing hardware for AI/ML workloads or high-performance computing ...

Google

Hardware Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$144K - $191K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field and 4 years of experience in the job offered or in a Hardware Engineer-related occupation. * Alternatively, will ...

Cisco

Hardware Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$135K - $193K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering and 5+ years of experience, or ... Experience in hardware designs and validation. Preferred Qualifications * Hands on board design ...

Cisco

Hardware Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$135K - $193K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering and 5+ years of experience, or ... Experience in hardware designs and validation. * Experience collaborating with cross-functional ...

Cisco

Hardware Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$135K - $193K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering and 5+ years of experience, or ... Experience in hardware designs and validation. Preferred Qualifications * Hands on board design ...

Verkada

Hardware Engineer

San Mateo, CA

$140K - $185K/yr

Verkada's Hardware Engineers own all electrical engineering design and validation aspects, working directly with our JDM partners to ship cutting-edge products. This is a full-time, in-person role ...

Cisco

Hardware Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$135K - $193K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering and 5+ years of experience, or ... Experience in hardware designs and validation. * Experience collaborating with cross-functional ...

Netflix

Hardware Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$150K - $200K/yr

Design and implement the popular computer interface protocol for data transfer * Stay updated with ... Master's degree in Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field. * Proven ...

Rishabh Software Pvt. Ltd

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

Hardware Engineer Location: San Diego, CA - Onsite Duration: 6-12 Months Experience with unattended / kiosk / retail automation hardware a strong plus About the Engagement: We operate a large fleet ...

Qualcomm

FPGA Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

OR Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Engineering, or related field and 3+ years of Hardware Engineering or related work experience. OR PhD in Computer Science ...

Built Robotics Inc

Hardware Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a hardware engineer, you'll get to re-imagine and design hardware for our fleet of ... CAD software design package (e.g. Solidworks, Onshape, Fusion 360) * 2+ years of experience in ...

DZYNE Technologies

Hardware Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Hardware Engineer Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: On-Site Position Summary The Hardware ... Ability to design using CAD software such as Altium * Proven communication and interpersonal skills ...

Verkada

Hardware Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Verkada's Hardware Engineers own all electrical engineering design and validation aspects, working directly with our JDM partners to ship cutting-edge products. This is a full-time, in-person role ...

DZYNE Technologies LLC.

Hardware Engineer

Irvine, CA

$100K - $145K/yr

Hardware Engineer Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: On-Site Position Summary The Hardware ... Ability to design using CAD software such as Altium * Proven communication and interpersonal skills ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsComputer Hardware Engineer JobsComputer Hardware Engineer Jobs in California

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 Jul 21, 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in large companies, management positions, or those working on advanced hardware design and development projects.

What does a computer hardware engineer make?

A computer hardware engineer typically earns a median annual salary of around $128,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and industry. They design, develop, and test computer components such as circuit boards, processors, and memory devices, often working with specialized tools and certifications in electronics and engineering. Salaries can range from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on factors like seniority and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Computer hardware engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within the tech industry. Senior engineers with extensive experience, leadership positions, or those working in high-cost regions may approach these figures, especially with bonuses and stock options included.

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 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 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 schematic diagrams, use CAD software, and need knowledge of electronics and programming. Their work environment typically includes labs and offices, and they may require certifications in electronics or computer engineering.

What are computer hardware engineers?

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

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 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.

More about Computer Hardware Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California? For Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in CA? For Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Computer Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,594 per year, or $69 per hour.

Hardware Engineer

Wayve

Sunnyvale, CA • Hybrid

$185K - $247K/yr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Hardware Engineer to join our Hardware team and play a key role in developing next-generation autonomous driving compute platforms. This role focuses on low-level electronics design, embedded systems, and high-performance compute integration translating autonomy requirements into robust, scalable hardware systems.

You will work hands-on with cutting-edge computing platforms, collaborating across hardware, software, and systems teams to design, bring up, and validate mission-critical electronics that enable embodied AI.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop embedded electronics systems for autonomous driving applications
  • Architect and implement compute platforms for ML workloads
  • Collaborate with software and autonomy teams to optimize hardware for performance, reliability, and scalability
  • Own board-level design, bring-up, validation, and debugging across hardware and software boundaries
  • Develop high-speed interfaces such as PCIe, Ethernet, USB, and related technologies in an automotive environment
  • Work with mechanical engineering teams to design robust electronics hardware
  • Lead schematic design, PCB layout reviews, and signal integrity considerations
  • Create design and product specification documentation for electronics hardware
  • Work with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure design robustness and production readiness
About YouEssential:
  • 7+ years of experience in electronics or embedded systems design
  • Strong experience with board-level design, bring-up, and debugging
  • Deep understanding of embedded systems and compute architectures
  • Experience with high-speed digital interfaces (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, USB)
  • Strong debugging skills across hardware and software systems
  • Familiarity with Linux-based systems and embedded environments
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., C, C++, Python)
  • Ability to architecture and analyze complex systems
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Desirable Experience
  • Experience designing hardware for AI/ML workloads or high-performance computing systems
  • Experience with signal integrity, power integrity, and high-speed PCB design
  • Knowledge of networking systems and protocols (Ethernet, TCP/IP, etc.)
  • Experience with firmware or low-level software development (bootloaders, drivers, BSPs)
  • Familiarity with NVIDIA and Qualcomm SoC applications
  • Experience working with contract manufacturers and scaling hardware to production
  • Autonomous vehicle, robotics, or other safety-critical system experience

This role is a full-time role based in Sunnyvale, CA (hybrid) and the reasonably estimated salary for this role ranges from $185,800 to $247,800, plus a competitive equity package. Actual compensation is based on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.

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