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Data Path Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior RTL Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$200 - $500/hr

Familiarity with RAS features in memory and data paths, such as ECC, poisoning, and error reporting. * Experience with NoC fabrics, virtual channels, and QoS mechanisms for memory traffic.

Data Platform Architect

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$70.50 - $90.75/hr

YOUR ROLE The successful candidate will work with key executive stakeholders to collect requirements, then architect the data path from ingestion to visualization. The candidate should evangelize ...

Data Platform Architect

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$70.50 - $90.75/hr

YOUR ROLE The successful candidate will work with key executive stakeholders to collect requirements, then architect the data path from ingestion to visualization. The candidate should evangelize ...

SoC Arch * Architect to look into Full end2end Data-path * Drive initialization, reset flow and design implications to other blocks * Drive Different Clock domain crossing, distribution and ...

Showing results 21-40

Data Path information

See California salary details

$21.5K

$104.5K

$172.3K

How much do data path jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for data path in California is $104,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,044.00 and $144,925.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data path?

A Data Path is a critical component within a computer's processor that handles the flow and processing of data. It typically consists of elements like registers, arithmetic logic units (ALUs), and buses, which work together to execute instructions and move data within the CPU. Data Paths are designed to perform operations such as addition, subtraction, and data transfer efficiently, impacting the overall speed and capability of a processor. Understanding Data Paths is essential for those involved in computer architecture and hardware design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data path engineer?

To thrive as a Data Path Engineer, you need a solid background in computer engineering, digital design, and experience with hardware description languages like Verilog or VHDL, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools (e.g., ModelSim, Synopsys), FPGA/ASIC design flows, and version control systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration skills help you excel in cross-functional engineering teams. These skills and qualities ensure accurate, efficient data path designs that meet performance requirements within complex hardware systems.

What are some common challenges faced in a data path engineering role, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Data Path engineers often encounter challenges related to optimizing data throughput, minimizing latency, and ensuring data integrity across complex hardware and software systems. Applicants should be prepared to troubleshoot performance bottlenecks, work closely with cross-functional teams like software, hardware, and network engineers, and stay updated on evolving protocols and standards. Developing strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with hardware description languages, and experience with system-level debugging tools can help you tackle these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Data Path vs Data Analyst?

AspectData PathData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in data science, computer science, or related fieldsUsually a degree in statistics, mathematics, or related areas
Work EnvironmentData engineering teams, IT departments, or data infrastructure rolesBusiness units, marketing, finance, or operations teams
Industry UsageUsed in organizations focusing on data infrastructure and pipelinesCommon in business analysis, reporting, and decision-making roles

Data Path professionals focus on building and maintaining data infrastructure, while Data Analysts interpret data to support business decisions. Both roles require strong technical skills but serve different functions within data management and analysis.

What cities in California are hiring for Data Path jobs?

Cities in California with the most Data Path job openings:

Infographic showing various Data Path job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,545 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Embedded 5G/4G Cellular Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer

Apple

San Diego, CA

$175K - $308K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other’s ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It’s the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you’ll do more than join something - you’ll add something.
As a Wireless Embedded Physical Layer Data Path Signal Processing Firmware Engineer on this team, you will be at the center of the embedded 4G/5G/6G multimode cellular firmware effort within a silicon design group responsible for crafting and productizing powerful cellular SoCs. This position requires someone comfortable with all aspects of embedded software development, has experience writing firmware, which is tightly coupled to hardware, is not afraid to debate ideas openly, and is flexible enough to shift on constantly evolving requirements.
Description
Implement cellular physical layer algorithms on digital/vector signal processors with tight time, latency, memory and energy budgets by interfacing to specialized cellular ASIC hardware.
If you have strong hardware programming understanding, you will implement firmware which implements 3GPP channels and procedures such as: PDCCH, PDSCH, PBCH PUCCH, PUSCH, PRACH UL/DL HARQ.
If you have linear algebra and signal processing understanding, you may implement some of the following:
• Channel Estimation
• Channel State Feedback
• Interference Cancellation
• Cell Search and Measurement
• Beam Measurement
Work with systems engineers to refine signal processing algorithms for efficient firmware/hardware execution
• Specify, design, and implement the firmware architecture for superior power, performance, and cost.
• Analyze, refine and implement fixed-point firmware and validate bit-exactness to the algorithmic reference
• Assist in the development on pre-silicon emulation systems/virtual platforms and use them for verification.
• Evaluate and implement groundbreaking tools for build, formal verification and test.
• Define methodologies and standard processes
Preferred Qualifications
Understanding of 3GPP cellular standards (4G/5G physical layer aspects).
Familiarity with digital/wireless communications.
Significant experience with memory constrained Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and concurrent programming.
Familiarity with machine learning (ML) concepts and generative AI.
Minimum Qualifications
BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience.
Experience either with implementing digital signal processing algorithms using special purpose digital/vector signal processing HW -OR- wireless physical layer channels by interfacing to special purpose hardware.
Deep understanding of software engineering principles, and core computer science fundamentals.
Fundamental facility with C and C++, compilers, build and source code control tools.
Experience with silicon prototyping, emulation systems, and virtual platforms.
Solid understanding of computer architecture with particular emphasis on the HW/SW interfaces of high-speed communication subsystems.
Some scripting experience (Python) for developing automation tooling.
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $175,000 and $308,500, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976