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Computer Programmer Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

Computer Vision AI & ML Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$127K - $149K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Computer Vision AI & ML Engineer to design, build, and deploy advanced perception systems for real-world robotics and automation. You will work across the full ...

CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $250K/yr

Collaborate with design engineer, verification engineer, IT, and EDA vendor to optimize EDA license usage * Drive innovation by researching and implementing advanced CAD methodologies that either ...

CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $250K/yr

Collaborate with design engineer, verification engineer, IT, and EDA vendor to optimize EDA license usage * Drive innovation by researching and implementing advanced CAD methodologies that either ...

CPU Integration CAD Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$167K - $250K/yr

As CPU Integration CAD engineer, you will build and support the world's best implementation tools and flows. Your tools and flows will ensure our custom CPUs have industry-leading power, performance ...

Showing results 21-40

Computer Programmer information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$38.7K

$76.1K

$111.9K

How much do computer programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer programmer in San Jose, CA is $76,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as a computer programmer?

A computer programmer writes, tests, and maintains code to develop software applications, websites, or systems. They use programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ and often collaborate with teams to design solutions and troubleshoot issues. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of development tools are essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with software development tools, version control systems like Git, and sometimes certifications in specific languages or frameworks are commonly required. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure high-quality, efficient code development and effective teamwork in rapidly evolving technical environments.

Is a computer programmer a good career?

A computer programmer is a skilled professional who writes, tests, and maintains software code, often working with programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities across various industries, but it requires continuous learning and problem-solving skills. Success in this career depends on technical proficiency, adaptability, and staying current with technological advancements.

What kind of jobs can computer programmers get?

Computer programmers can work in various roles such as software developers, application programmers, web developers, and systems analysts. They often work in industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and government, using programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ to create and maintain software applications. Many positions require problem-solving skills, knowledge of development tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA or Microsoft Certified solutions developer.

What does a computer programmer do?

A computer programmer designs, tests, writes, debugs, and maintains the computer program code. The coding language is written for the computer to be able to comprehend it and take specific actions according to those commands. Computer programmers can work with existing code or create something entirely new. The objective of coding is to develop programs that act on specific controls and behaviors. Coders need to be able to work with specialized algorithms, logic, and app domain, as well. But the other key goal of a computer programmer is to design interfaces that regular non-technical users can easily understand and use.

What is the difference between Computer Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fieldUsually requires a bachelor's degree, often with additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentOften works in coding, debugging, and maintaining softwareDesigns, develops, tests, and maintains software applications
Industry UsageCommonly employed in IT, software firms, and tech departmentsFound in a wide range of industries including tech, finance, healthcare

While both roles involve coding and software creation, Computer Programmers primarily focus on writing and debugging code based on specifications, whereas Software Developers are involved in designing and building complete software solutions. The roles often overlap, but Developers typically have broader responsibilities in the software development lifecycle.

What are some typical challenges computer programmers face when working on large team projects?

Computer programmers working on large team projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating code changes, maintaining consistent coding standards, and managing dependencies between different components. Effective communication and the use of version control systems like Git are essential to prevent conflicts and ensure smooth collaboration. Additionally, programmers must often adapt to varying coding styles and workflows, making flexibility and a collaborative mindset important for success in team environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Programmer jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Computer Programmer jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Programmer jobs in San Jose, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Programmer jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Computer Programmer jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Computer Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Programmer job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,149 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Computer Vision Engineer - Autonomy & Perception

Pivotal

Palo Alto, CA

$131K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 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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