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Computer Hardware Engineers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RTL Networks

Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer

CA · On-site

$150K - $235K/yr

Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer Location: NAWS China Lake, Ridgecrest, CA preferred Salary: $150,000-$235,000 (DOE) Status: Full-time Clearance: Minimum active Secret to start and will be ...

Picogrid

Head of Hardware

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$220K - $270K/yr

About the Role As the Head of Hardware at Picogrid, you will be the foundational technical leader ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field ...

OpenAI

Software Engineer, Hardware

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$225K - $455K/yr

About the Role As a software engineer on the Scaling team, you'll help build and optimize the low ... return all computer hardware in your possession (including the data contained therein) upon ...

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All JobsComputer Hardware Engineers JobsComputer Hardware Engineers Jobs in California

Computer Hardware Engineers information

See California salary details

$108.1K

$143.6K

$176.2K

How much do computer hardware engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineers 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 jobs can a computer hardware engineer get?

Computer hardware engineers can pursue roles such as hardware design engineer, systems engineer, embedded systems engineer, and test engineer. They often work in industries like technology, manufacturing, and telecommunications, utilizing skills in circuit design, CAD tools, and technical certifications. These positions typically require knowledge of computer architecture and hardware development processes.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in design and troubleshooting, and often advanced certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are typically found in large tech companies, specialized industries, or managerial roles that involve overseeing complex hardware projects.

What is the difference between Computer Hardware Engineers vs Computer Network Architects?

AspectComputer Hardware EngineersComputer Network Architects
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in computer engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco or CompTIA are commonBachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or related field; certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, testing computer hardware; labs, offices, manufacturing settingsDesigning and implementing network systems; offices, data centers, client sites
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, research labsTelecommunications, IT services, large corporations

While both roles require a strong technical background and related certifications, Computer Hardware Engineers focus on designing and testing physical computer components, whereas Computer Network Architects specialize in planning and building network systems. Both roles are essential in the tech industry but serve different aspects of computing infrastructure.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like FPGA or ASIC design, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions such as engineering managers or technical directors.

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 strong background in electrical engineering, computer architecture, and mathematics, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware design tools (like CAD software), simulation systems, and certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the efficient design, testing, and improvement of computer systems, which are critical for technological advancement and product reliability.

What are Computer Hardware Engineers?

Computer hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of computer hardware, such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work to ensure that computer hardware components work efficiently and can integrate seamlessly with the latest software. These engineers often collaborate with software developers and other engineers to create new technologies and improve existing computer systems. Their work is essential for advancing computer performance and supporting technological innovation.

What are some common challenges computer hardware engineers face when working on new product development?

Computer hardware engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance requirements with cost constraints and ensuring compatibility with existing systems. They must also stay updated with rapidly evolving technologies and standards, which can impact design choices and timelines. Collaboration with software engineers and cross-functional teams is critical, as hardware decisions directly affect system functionality and user experience. Navigating regulatory compliance and rigorous testing procedures are additional hurdles that require careful planning and problem-solving.

What do computer hardware engineers actually do?

Computer hardware engineers design, develop, and test computer components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They analyze system requirements, create schematics, and use tools like CAD software, often working in labs or offices to improve hardware performance and reliability.
Computer Hardware Engineers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineers job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,594 per year, or $69 per hour.
Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer

Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer

RTL Networks

CA • On-site

$150K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer
Location: NAWS China Lake, Ridgecrest, CA preferred
Salary: $150,000-$235,000 (DOE)
Status: Full-time
Clearance: Minimum active Secret to start and will be upgraded to Top-Secret. DOD Top-Secret Security Clearance preferred.
About Us: RTL Networks, Inc. is a rapidly growing company primarily focused on providing information technology (IT) support services and personnel to various commercial and government customers for extended-term contracts. By providing a wide array of professional services and products, we help our customers leverage technology and operate confidently in their technology environments to ensure resource predictability, security, and reliability to meet business objectives.
Summary:
RTL Networks has an exciting opportunity for an Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer to support NAVAIR China Lake.
Primary Responsibilities:
Essential responsibilities of the Embedded Computer/Hardware Developer include, but are not limited to:
  • Research, design, develop, and/or test embedded components for military avionics.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree and 3 to 10+ years of experience.
  • Minimum active Secret to start and will be upgraded to Top-Secret.
  • Experienced printed circuit board (PCB) developer.
  • Skilled in mixed signal design.
  • Integration and design experience with Altium, Quartus and FPGA.
  • Experience with 1553 bus hardware design.
  • Must possess strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Analytical problem solving required.

Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.
  • Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time.
  • Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically.

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must hold a security clearance at the Secret level. Minimum active Secret to start and will be upgraded to Top-Secret. US Citizenship is a requirement for clearance at this location.
NOTE:
  • The applicant selected for this position must have and be able to maintain an Active Security Clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Applicants must have a valid driver's license for this position and will be subject to verification.
  • Chosen applicants must pass pre-employment drug screening, credit review, and a criminal background check.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, Females/Minority/Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin

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