1

Computer Scientist Jobs in Milpitas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Optical Scientist

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

The optical scientist will primarily support the Phase Induced Amplitude Apodization (PIAA) Vortex ... Perform desk-based computer tasks for extended periods of time. * Assemble and manipulate optical ...

Laser-Processing Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

... CAD. Light Materials is scaling up a process that grows finished, complex parts of these extreme ... The role We are looking for an outstanding experimentalist to own the science of our roboticized ...

Serving as an external scientific authority, this role represents ATUM at a high technical level with prospective and existing customers and licensees, translating our integrated platform ...

Solid understanding of AI for Science methodology: how to design datasets from simulations, handle out-of-distribution generalization, and ensure physical consistency of learned models Strongly ...

Solid understanding of AI for Science methodology: how to design datasets from simulations, handle out-of-distribution generalization, and ensure physical consistency of learned models Strongly ...

Showing results 21-40

Computer Scientist information

See Milpitas, CA salary details

$58.9K

$129.8K

$160.2K

How much do computer scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer scientist in Milpitas, CA is $129,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,100.00 and $159,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer scientist?

Computer scientists are professionals who study the theory, design, development, and application of computer systems and software. They work on solving complex problems using algorithms, programming languages, and computational methods. Their work can range from developing new technologies, improving cybersecurity, creating software, to researching artificial intelligence and machine learning. Computer scientists are employed in various industries, including tech companies, research institutions, government agencies, and academia.

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

To thrive as a Computer Scientist, you need a strong background in mathematics, programming, and algorithm design, usually supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python, Java, C++), development tools, and version control systems is typically required, along with knowledge of specialized software or frameworks relevant to your area. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help you collaborate and present complex ideas clearly. These skills and qualifications are important for developing innovative solutions, advancing technology, and working efficiently in multidisciplinary teams.

What does a computer scientist do?

Computer scientists solve problems using technology. They write and program software, create applications for mobile devices, and develop websites. Their primary objectives are to validate and to develop mathematical models capable of computer interaction between people and other computers. They do this by running computer programs and improving computer processes and performance. Beyond working within theoretical frameworks, computer scientists can also research and focus in areas such as data structure and algorithms, information and database theory, software engineering, numerical analysis, computational complexity theory, computer graphics, programming language theory, and computer vision.

How do computer scientists typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Computer scientists often work closely with teams from engineering, product management, data analytics, and IT to design, implement, and optimize technological solutions. Collaboration may involve participating in cross-functional meetings, providing technical expertise to inform business decisions, and integrating software systems with other platforms. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as computer scientists must translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for non-technical colleagues. This collaborative environment not only broadens your professional network but also enhances your problem-solving skills through exposure to diverse perspectives.

What is the difference between Computer Scientist vs Software Engineer?

AspectComputer ScientistSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or higher in CS, Software Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsTech companies, software development firms, IT departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech companiesSoftware development companies, startups, large corporations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, and skillsJob requirements, responsibilities, and career growth

Computer Scientists focus on theoretical foundations, algorithms, and research, often working in academia or R&D. Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications in industry settings. While both roles require strong programming skills and a background in computer science, their work environments and primary objectives differ.

What are 5 careers in computer scientist?

A computer scientist can pursue careers such as software developer, data analyst, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, and machine learning engineer. These roles often require programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and familiarity with tools like Python, Java, or SQL. Many positions also benefit from relevant certifications and a strong understanding of computer systems and data structures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA?

The most popular types of Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA?

For Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Scientist jobs in Milpitas, CA are:

What cities near Milpitas, CA are hiring for Computer Scientist jobs?

Cities near Milpitas, CA with the most Computer Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Scientist job openings in Milpitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,756 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Computational Scientist, Differentiable Physics

Periodic Labs

Menlo Park, CA โ€ข On-site

$250K - $350K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

About the Role
Periodic Labs is building AI systems that can simulate physical science, verify predictions, and train on the full scientific method. We are looking for a Computational Scientist to build differentiable, accelerator-ready simulations for industrially relevant continuum-physics problems.
You should be equally comfortable with governing equations, solver code, and deep learning. We are open to expertise in any area of continuum-physics, with at least some experience in fluid dynamics. You will work on building simulation capabilities in challenging, data-limited domains requiring a mix of physics-based and empirical approaches.
What You'll Do
  • Build and extend differentiable solvers for continuum simulation (including but not limited to fluid dynamics), especially multi-scale and multi-physics problems.
  • Implement numerical methods from equations and papers, and diagnose convergence, stability, and modeling failures.
  • Combine simulation with deep learning for surrogate modeling, learned physics, inverse problems, parameter estimation, and optimization.
  • Use automatic differentiation and modern accelerators with JAX or PyTorch to make simulations scalable and trainable.
  • Validate models against experiments, trusted benchmarks, or high-fidelity simulations.
  • Create datasets and evaluations to guide the development of LLMs to accelerate and automate these tasks.
You Will Thrive Here If You Have
  • A PhD or equivalent research experience in applied mathematics, computational science, physics, engineering, computer science, or a related field.
  • Code-level experience building or substantially modifying PDE solvers, numerical methods, or differentiable simulations.
  • Deep expertise in at least one continuum domain, with breadth across domains or a demonstrated ability to learn new physics quickly.
  • Meaningful experience building, training, and evaluating deep-learning models for physical systems.
  • Strong Python and software-engineering skills, especially JAX, PyTorch, Julia, or C++.
  • Experience applying simulation to realistic scientific or engineering problems, not only clean academic benchmarks.
  • A startup mentality: ownership, good judgment under uncertainty, and enthusiasm for building from scratch.
Strong Candidates May Also Have
  • Experience with fluid dynamics plus another continuum domain, or with multiphysics and multiscale modeling.
  • Expertise in adjoint methods, implicit differentiation, differentiable programming, or scientific optimization.
  • Experience accelerating scientific software on GPUs or TPUs.
  • Contributions to scientific open-source software used by others.
  • Experience connecting simulation to experiments, engineering decisions, semiconductors, or autonomous workflows.
Mechanics
  • Minimum education: Bachelor's degree or similar experience
  • Location: Menlo Park, CA (Soon: San Francisco, too)
  • Compensation: $250,000-350,000 + equity
  • Visa sponsorship: Yes, we sponsor visas and will do everything we can to assist in this process.