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Computer Hardware Engineers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

PlayStation Global

Senior Hardware Engineer

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$177K - $265K/yr

... hardware engineers specialized in custom scale-out computing development. The ideal candidate ... Understanding of computer architecture, interconnects, FPGAs and storage technology * Experience ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

You will collaborate with suppliers, design and system engineers to characterize the functional ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

You will collaborate with suppliers, design and system engineers to characterize the functional ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA

$143K - $190K/yr

You will collaborate with suppliers, design and system engineers to characterize the functional ... S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline4 ...

Maxonic

Be Seen First

Hardware Validation Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Work closely with team members, engineers, and stakeholders to ensure timely execution of ... Understanding of computer hardware architecture, including experience applying concepts like PCI-e ...

Qualcomm

Hardware Staff Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

OR PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Engineering, or related field and 2+ years of Hardware Engineering or related work experience. Preferred Qualifications: * Masters ...

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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 Jun 15, 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.

Which pays more, CS or CE?

Computer Engineers (CE) often have higher average salaries than Computer Scientists (CS) due to their focus on hardware design, embedded systems, and practical engineering skills. CS roles tend to emphasize software development, algorithms, and programming, which can also be well-paid but may vary based on specialization and industry. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities.

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 kind of jobs do computer hardware engineers have?

Computer hardware engineers design, develop, and test computer components such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, and peripherals. They often work in research and development, manufacturing, or technical support environments, using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of electronics and programming. Their roles may involve troubleshooting, system integration, and ensuring hardware meets performance standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like FPGA or ASIC design, and advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management skills, and working in competitive markets or large organizations.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced computer hardware engineers, especially those in senior roles or working in specialized fields like semiconductor design or high-performance computing, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

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.
Computer Hardware Engineers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineers job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,594 per year, or $69 per hour.

Principal Hardware Engineer, Validation

Cariad, Inc.

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. To achieve that we are building the leading tech stack for the automotive industry and creating a unified software platform for over 10 million new vehicles per year. We're looking for talented, digital minds like you to help us create code that moves the world. Together with you, we'll build outstanding digital experiences and products for all Volkswagen Group brands that will transform mobility. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it.
Role Summary:
The Principal Hardware Engineer, Validation will be critical in ensuring the quality and integrity of our hardware platform designs. This role will lead design verification efforts, overseeing testing and validation processes to ensure compliance with specifications, requirements, and industry standards. The Principal Hardware Engineer, Validation will identify and resolve design flaws, optimize performance, conduct enhanced stress screening (ESS), and improve product reliability. Familiarity with automotive and environmental testing standards is essential.
Role Responsibilities:
Testing, Validation, and Compliance
  • Ensure comprehensive test coverage that aligns with project objectives.
  • Develop and implement test procedures, methodologies, and automation frameworks to enhance testing efficiency and comply with industry standards.
  • Ensure adherence to automotive standards such as ISO 16750 and IATF 16949, and environmental standards like MIL-STD-810, IEC 60068, and ISO 7637.
  • Lead Enhanced Stress Screening (ESS), HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Testing), and other reliability testing to identify potential early-life failures.
  • Analyze test results, lead root cause investigations, identify anomalies, and collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
  • Drive continuous improvement in testing methodologies, tools, and best practices.
  • Define comprehensive test strategies tailored to project objectives, considering performance, reliability, environmental factors (vibration, temperature, humidity), safety, and compliance.
  • Conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Prepare detailed test reports and documentation, ensuring traceability and alignment with project objectives. Work with a requirement management system to track and validate test coverage against specified requirements.

Product Development
  • Lead the design verification process for hardware platform development projects.
  • Define test strategies, create test plans, and execute test cases.
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in design verification and hardware testing for product development.

Team Collaboration
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and quality assurance specialists.
  • Act as a subject matter expert in design verification and hardware testing, providing guidance and support across the product development lifecycle.
  • Foster a collaborative working environment by engaging with teams to address challenges and resolve issues.
  • Demonstrate proven experience in leading root cause analysis and investigations, identifying and resolving complex design and hardware issues.
  • Collaborate with Brand representatives, external labs, and JDM partners to define and execute testing strategies.

General Skills:
  • Analytical and conceptual thinking.
  • Excellent communication skills - interpersonal, presentation, and written.
  • Experience with integration - bringing together people, processes, and systems.
  • Strong influencing and negotiation skills.
  • Strategic and visionary mindset.
  • Resource management expertise.
  • Proven technical leadership skills.

Required Skills:
  • Proven experience in design verification and hardware testing.
  • Expertise in developing and executing test plans, creating test cases, and analyzing test results.
  • Proficiency in scripting and automation languages with familiarity in test automation frameworks.
  • Experienced in collaborating with cross-functional teams, including software engineering, hardware engineering, and mechanical engineering teams.
  • Expertise in identifying and resolving hardware product design flaws.
  • Experience across multiple engineering validation stages and phases.
  • Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues.
  • Proven experience in the design process within the automotive industry.

Years of Relevant Experience:
  • 12+ years of relevant experience in design verification and validation in a hardware development environment

Required Education:
  • Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics or related technical field

Compensation
Salary range is dependent on factors such as geographical differentials, credentials or certifications, industry-based experience, qualification and training. In the city of Mountain View, California, the salary range for this position is $194,670 - $282,735.
CARIAD, Inc. provides performance based merits and annual bonus along with a competitive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401k with employer match and defined contribution plan, short and long term disability, basic life and AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment plans, maternity and non-primary caregiver leave, adoption assistance, employee referral program and vacation and paid holidays. We also offer a unique vehicle lease program that covers registration and insurance fees.
CARIAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.
Employment with CARIAD Inc. is subject to export control and sanctions compliance. Some positions may involve access to technology and/or software source code subject to U.S. legal restrictions on release to certain foreign persons based on citizenship or permanent residence. To ensure compliance, applicants will be required to provide information for screening. Employment may be contingent on the outcome, including verification of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, or confirmation that a license, exemption, or exception applies. CARIAD retains the discretion to decline to obtain a required license in any case. By applying, you acknowledge and agree to participate in this process.

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