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Computer Science Jobs in Palo Alto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

S., or PhD degree in Computer Science or a related field. * Experience with computer vision, computational photography, and/or modern AI applied to these fields. * An interest in applying your skills ...

S., or PhD degree in Computer Science or a related field. * Experience with computer vision, computational photography, and/or modern AI applied to these fields. * An interest in applying your skills ...

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Computer Science information

See Palo Alto, CA salary details

$66.4K

$97.7K

$115.2K

How much do computer science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science in Palo Alto, CA is $97,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,100.00 and $109,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer science?

Computer science is the study of computers, computational systems, and how they process information. It covers a wide range of topics, including programming, algorithms, data structures, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Computer scientists design and analyze software and hardware to solve problems and improve technology. The field is essential in many industries, from finance and healthcare to entertainment and research.

What are computer science jobs?

The computer science field provides a wide range of opportunities for technically talented individuals. Depending on your skills and interests, you can find computer science jobs as a software developer, hardware engineer, database administrator, computer systems analyst, network architect, information security analyst, or web developer. You need an analytical mind and strong technical skills to perform your job duties, which may be to develop, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, applications, or networks. Your responsibilities in a computer science job are often directly related to the business goals and outcomes of your employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a computer science role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Computer Science role, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Python, Java, C++, version control systems such as Git, and software development methodologies is often required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills ensure you can design efficient solutions, collaborate on complex projects, and adapt to rapidly evolving technologies.

What are some common challenges computer science professionals face when working on collaborative software projects?

Computer science professionals often encounter challenges such as coordinating with team members across different disciplines, managing version control in shared codebases, and ensuring clear communication of technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Navigating conflicting priorities and integrating diverse components can also be demanding, especially in agile environments with tight deadlines. Strong collaboration skills, openness to feedback, and familiarity with team tools like Git and project management platforms can help address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Computer Science vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer ScienceSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS or related fieldBachelor's in CS, Software Engineering, or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, tech companies, startupsTech companies, software firms, freelance projects
Industry UsageAcademic research, algorithm development, theoretical workBuilding, coding, testing software applications
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on theoretical foundations and algorithmsFocuses on practical software creation and deployment

Computer Science and Software Developer roles often overlap, but Computer Science emphasizes theoretical foundations, algorithms, and research, while Software Developers focus on designing, coding, and maintaining software applications. Both roles require programming skills, but their primary focus and work environments differ.

Are computer science majors still in demand?

Computer science majors are currently in high demand due to the growth of technology, software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis fields. Employers seek candidates with programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and experience with tools like Python, Java, and cloud platforms, making it a strong career choice with good job prospects.

What are careers in computer science?

Careers in computer science include roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, data scientist, and network administrator. These jobs typically require strong programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and familiarity with tools like programming languages, databases, and operating systems.

What can you do with a computer science degree?

A computer science degree prepares individuals for a variety of roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, data scientist, and network administrator. It provides skills in programming, algorithms, and systems design, often requiring knowledge of programming languages, databases, and problem-solving. Graduates can work in technology companies, finance, healthcare, or government agencies, often with opportunities for certification and ongoing learning.

What jobs can I do with computer science?

A degree in computer science opens opportunities for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, data scientist, and network administrator. These jobs typically require programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and familiarity with tools like databases and operating systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA?

The most popular types of Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA?

For Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Science jobs in Palo Alto, CA are:

What cities near Palo Alto, CA are hiring for Computer Science jobs?

Cities near Palo Alto, CA with the most Computer Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Science job openings in Palo Alto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,696 per year, or $47 per hour.

Computer Scientist (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 
Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Computer Scientist for our Electrical Engineering & Computer Science Practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role, you will work as part of a team to help our clients solve challenging technical problems which are often urgent, high profile, and multi-disciplinary. You will be involved in a variety of projects with applications in domains such as patent litigation, automobile failure analysis and consumer electronics. You will have the opportunity to define and shape your individual consulting practice based on your skills and interests.

You will be responsible for
  • Performing technical analysis of software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering
  • Performing analysis/consulting on a variety of scientific/engineering problems in a variety of electrical/electronic components, products, and systems
  • Electronic and computer laboratory testing
  • Reporting that clearly illustrates and explains results to both technical and business audiences
  • Identifying projects to support as an individual consultant
  • Preparing technical proposals, developing business opportunities, and managing projects
  • Leading and executing projects requiring computer science and electrical engineering skills
  • Developing business by bringing in one or more consulting projects within the first year after hire
  • Leveraging your existing network of contacts coupled with Exponent's depth and breadth to generate new business leads and expand offerings and value to Exponent's current clients
You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related field
  • Demonstrated interest and experience in software, operating systems, file systems, networking protocols, embedded systems, electronics and other technical aspects of computing systems
  • Skilled in low level programming languages like C and C++
  • Experience in software development, and team-based programming as demonstrated through code examples
  • Electrical or electronics laboratory experience
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills as demonstrated by first author publications and talks or presentations
  • Ability to gather information and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, and related industries
  • Interest in learning and working with a wide range of devices and systems that span a broad array of consumer and industrial application, including both hardware and software elements of these systems
  • Desire to learn, and work with, an array of different, software frameworks, tools, and programming languages
  • Ability to support multiple group projects and market the Electrical Engineering & Computer Science Practice and its consulting services
  • Experience in two or more of the following areas:

    • Operating Systems

    • Embedded Computing

    • Networking

    • Machine Learning

    • Artificial Intelligence

    • Computer Vision

    • Web Development

    • Mobile App Development

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].

Life @ Exponent

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite 

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary RangeUSD $140,000.00 - USD $154,000.00 /Yr.Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 

Job LocationsUS-CA-Menlo ParkEmployment Type: FULL_TIME