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Computer Science Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exponent Inc.

Computer Scientist (Ph.D.)

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$140K - $154K/yr

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory ... Electronic and computer laboratory testing * Reporting that clearly illustrates and explains ...

Caltech

Data Science Engineering

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$40.50 - $64/hr

Background in Computer Science, Statistics, or Mathematics * Strong programming skills in Python and R * Background in algebraic geometry, computational algebra, and symbolic computation * Experience ...

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All JobsComputer Science Engineering JobsComputer Science Engineering Jobs in California

Computer Science Engineering information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$119.9K

$135.7K

How much do computer science engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science engineering in California is $119,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Computer Science Engineering?

Computer Science Engineering (CSE) is a branch of engineering that integrates computer science and engineering principles to design, develop, and maintain software and hardware systems. CSE professionals work on a wide range of technologies, including programming, algorithms, computer networks, databases, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The field prepares graduates for careers in software development, systems analysis, data science, and more. It is one of the most in-demand disciplines due to the increasing reliance on technology across industries.

What is the difference between Computer Science Engineering vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer Science EngineeringSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; sometimes certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, tech companies, R&D centersTech companies, startups, freelance projects, corporate IT teams
Industry UsageAcademic, research, product development, software designApplication development, coding, testing, deployment
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on theoretical and foundational knowledgeFocuses on practical coding and project implementation

Computer Science Engineering and Software Developer roles overlap in skills and industry usage, but differ mainly in focus. Computer Science Engineering emphasizes theoretical foundations and research, while Software Developers concentrate on coding and building applications. Both roles are vital in tech industries, with CS Engineering often leading to research or academic careers, and Software Developers working on practical software solutions.

Can computer engineers make $500,000?

Computer engineers can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior roles, management, or specialized fields like software architecture, data science, or cybersecurity. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes working in high-paying industries or locations, along with additional certifications or advanced degrees.

What careers can you do with computer engineering?

Computer engineering graduates can pursue careers as software developers, hardware engineers, systems analysts, network administrators, cybersecurity specialists, and embedded systems engineers. These roles often require knowledge of programming languages, hardware design, and networking, and may involve working in technology companies, manufacturing, or research environments.

What can a computer science engineer do?

A computer science engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems, applications, and algorithms. They work with programming languages, data structures, and software development tools, often collaborating in teams and following engineering best practices. Their roles can include software development, system analysis, cybersecurity, and data management.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like AI, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What are some common challenges faced by Computer Science Engineers in collaborative projects, and how can they be addressed?

Computer Science Engineers often work on multidisciplinary teams where communication gaps, differing technical backgrounds, and unclear project requirements can pose challenges. To address these, effective documentation, regular cross-functional meetings, and utilizing collaborative tools (like version control and project management platforms) are essential. Building strong communication skills and fostering a culture of open feedback help ensure everyone stays aligned and project goals are met efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Computer Science Engineer, you need strong programming skills, a solid grasp of algorithms, data structures, and systems design, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Python, Java, or C++, version control systems such as Git, and certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or CompTIA Security+ are often valuable. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for developing robust software solutions, adapting to emerging technologies, and collaborating efficiently in dynamic engineering environments.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Engineering jobs in California? For Computer Science Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Science Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Science Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Computer Science Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Science Engineering job openings:
Computer Science Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Science Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,924 per year, or $57.7 per hour.
Department Chair - Computer Science Engineering

Department Chair - Computer Science Engineering

University of South Carolina

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Posting Summary
Logo Posting Number FAC00001PO26 Advertised Title Department Chair - Computer Science Engineering Campus Columbia College/Division College of Engineering and Computing Department CEC Computer Science and Engineering Advertised Salary Range To commensurate with qualifications Location of Vacancy Part/Full Time Full Time Hours per Week 37.5 Position Category Full-time Equivalent (FTE) Basis 11 months Work County Richland Tenure Information Tenure-Track/Tenured Job Search Category Faculty
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement
The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers state employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) at the University of South Carolina invites applications for the position of Department Chair. This is a leadership role for an individual with a strong vision for the future of computer science and engineering education and research, as well as a deep commitment to faculty development and student success.

The Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing was named on June 6, 2024, in recognition of the significant momentum of the college in scholarship, research productivity, enrollment, timely academic programs, and faculty size. Over the past nine years, there have been over 60 TTT hires, with additional 10+ ongoing searches, the annual research awards for the college have increased from $18M to over $75M, the freshman classes have grown by more than 50% to ~1,000 students, an Applied AI Institute (led by the CSE department) was founded in 2019, and a new biomedical engineering department has been formalized, focusing on the brain and significant potential overlap with AI. Recognizing this momentum, the President has allocated five of the 100 presidential hires for the CSE department, with the first position being the department chair, to be followed with another four tenured full or associate professors in CSE. The department has access to a state-of-the-art high-performance computing facility managed by the University with a general-purpose cluster consisting of 16,616 CPU cores and approximately 100 GPUs, as well as a dedicated AI cluster with 40 A100/H100 GPUs.

Position Overview

The Department Chair will serve as the academic and administrative leader of the department, providing strategic direction, fostering collaboration, and supporting a vibrant community of scholars, educators, and students. The Chair will guide the department in defining and expanding areas of core strengths, promoting interdisciplinary sponsored research, and ensuring the highest standards of academic excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Provide visionary leadership that inspires faculty, staff, and students in a shared mission of academic and research excellence, fostering a culture of collaboration, mutual support, and continuous growth.
Lead the department in recruiting and retaining high-impact faculty, including four additional tenured positions in strategically defined focus area(s).
Lead modernization of curricula and create timely courses (in collaboration with other units) that draw students from the whole university and beyond.
Champion innovative, multidisciplinary research initiatives that leverage faculty strengths and attract substantial federal, state, and industry funding.
Support and leverage the university-wide AI initiative by actively promoting multidisciplinary collaboration across the campus and throughout South Carolina to grow research and broaden the impact of the CSE department.
Serve as a proactive advocate for the department within the university and the broader academic and industrial communities.
Facilitate effective communication among faculty, students, and university leadership, complementing and advancing the broader mission of the College of Engineering and Computing through departmental initiatives.

Desired Qualifications

Proven leadership experience in an academic or research setting, with a track record of building collaborative, high-performing teams.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
Experience with best practices in developing undergraduate and graduate curricula.
Experience in securing multidisciplinary, federally, and industry-funded research projects.
A doctorate in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field is required.
Application Process

Parker Executive Search is assisting the University of South Carolina in the search for the next Chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The Search Committee invites letters of nomination, applications (letter of interest, full resume/CV, and contact information of at least five references), or expressions of interest to be submitted to the search firm assisting the University. Review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the appointment is made. It is preferred, however, that all nominations and applications be submitted before March 24, 2026. Please submit applications directly to Parker Executive Search. For additional information, please contact:
Porsha Williams, Vice President
Jacob Anderson, Senior Principal
Julia Butler-Mayes, Ph.D., Associate
Parker Executive Search
Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2875
Atlanta, GA 30328
(770) 804-1996 ext.: 111
janderson@parkersearch.com || jbutler-mayes@parkersearch.com
Required Education and Experience
  • A doctorate in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field is required.
  • With proven leadership experience in an academic or research setting, with a track record of building collaborative, high-performing teams.
Preferred Qualifications
Proven leadership experience in an academic or research setting, with a track record of building collaborative, high-performing teams.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
Experience with best practices in developing undergraduate and graduate curricula.
Experience in securing multidisciplinary, federally, and industry-funded research projects.
A doctorate in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field is required.
Posting Detail Information
Desired Start Date 08/16/2026 Job Open Date 01/06/2026 Job Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicant
Parker Executive Search is assisting the University of South Carolina in the search for the next Chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The Search Committee invites letters of nomination, applications (letter of interest, full resume/CV, and contact information of at least five references), or expressions of interest to be submitted to the search firm assisting the University. Review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the appointment is made. It is preferred, however, that all nominations and applications be submitted before March 24, 2026. Please submit applications directly to Parker Executive Search.
For additional information, please contact:
Porsha Williams, Vice President
Jacob Anderson, Senior Principal
Julia Butler-Mayes, Ph.D., Associate
Parker Executive Search
Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2875
Atlanta, GA 30328
(770) 804-1996 ext.: 111
janderson@parkersearch.com || jbutler-mayes@parkersearch.com
Quicklink for Posting https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/200784 EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

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