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Entry Level Ai Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... We are looking for an entry level Electrical Engineer that is ready to help us bring X-BAT to first ...

Electrical Engineer I (SD)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $122K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... We are looking for an entry level Electrical Engineer that is ready to help us bring X-BAT to first ...

Electrical Engineer I (SD)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $122K/yr

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members ... We are looking for an entry level Electrical Engineer that is ready to help us bring X-BAT to first ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Ai Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

How much do entry level ai engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ai engineer in California is $68,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level AI engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level AI Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics (especially linear algebra and statistics), and programming languages like Python, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch), version control systems (like Git), and sometimes entry-level certifications in AI or data science is valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills help you stand out in this collaborative and evolving field. These skills and qualities are crucial to effectively develop AI models, adapt to new technologies, and contribute meaningfully to innovative projects.

What types of projects do entry level AI engineers typically work on, and how do they contribute to larger team goals?

Entry-level AI engineers often start by assisting with data preprocessing, building and testing machine learning models, and supporting the deployment of AI solutions. They may also help maintain existing models, write scripts to automate workflows, and contribute to documentation. These tasks are crucial for larger team projects, as they ensure data quality and provide foundational components for more advanced AI systems. Collaboration with data scientists, software engineers, and product managers is common, offering valuable exposure to cross-functional teamwork and opportunities for skill development.

Is an entry level AI engineer an entry-level job?

An entry-level AI engineer position is typically considered an entry-level job, suitable for candidates with limited professional experience in AI, machine learning, or related fields. These roles often require foundational skills in programming, data analysis, and basic understanding of AI tools and frameworks. They are designed to provide on-the-job training and skill development for newcomers to the field.

Can you be an entry level AI engineer with no experience?

Entry level AI engineer positions often require some foundational knowledge of programming, machine learning concepts, and tools like Python or TensorFlow. While prior experience is not always mandatory, having relevant coursework, projects, or certifications can improve chances of securing such roles. Employers may also provide on-the-job training for candidates with strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn.

Is AI taking entry level ai engineer jobs?

Entry-level AI engineer jobs are growing as companies invest in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. However, competition remains high, and candidates with skills in programming, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like Python and TensorFlow have better prospects. Staying updated with industry trends and gaining relevant certifications can improve job opportunities in this field.

What does an entry level AI engineer do?

An Entry Level AI Engineer assists in designing, developing, and deploying artificial intelligence models and systems under the guidance of senior engineers. Their tasks often include collecting and preprocessing data, implementing machine learning algorithms, and testing models to ensure accuracy and efficiency. They also collaborate with software developers and data scientists to integrate AI solutions into products or services, all while continuing to learn and develop their technical skills on the job.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ai Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Ai Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Ai Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Ai Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ai Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ai Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Ai Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Ai Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ai Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Entry level & Senior Software Engineer, Core AI Software (Onsite)

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 242 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Machine Learning Engineering
General Summary:
As a leading technology innovator, Qualcomm pushes the boundaries of what's possible to enable next-generation experiences and drive digital transformation, creating a smarter, connected future for all. As a Qualcomm AI Software Engineer, you will develop and implement cutting-edge machine learning techniques that enable the efficient utilization of state-of-the-art solutions across various technology verticals.
In this position, you will be responsible for assisting with the software design and development of the Qualcomm AI Stack features within Qualcomm AI Runtime (QAIRT) SDK, specifically Core software including Generative AI Inference Extensions (Genie). You will contribute to the efficient execution of advanced deep neural networks (DNNs), large language models (LLMs), and other modern AI architectures. You will also be responsible for supporting AI stack that optimizes runtime efficiency, latency and power consumption of AI applications running Machine Learning workloads on Qualcomm's low-power AI accelerators.
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your passion for software design and development through your analytical, design, programming, and debugging skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 2+ years of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 1+ year of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field.
Responsibilities
  • Develop software for the Qualcomm AI Stack SDKs, specifically QAIRT and Genie, to support the execution of the latest generative AI models on Snapdragon platforms.

  • Design and implement core components of Qualcomm AI Stack runtime framework for inference on resource constrained AI systems, operating in low power, small memory footprint platforms

  • Validate, analyze, and optimize the performance and accuracy of software through detailed testing of machine learning use cases.

  • Debug complex issues, perform root cause analysis, and ensure high system reliability

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable AI software solutions.

  • Assist in feature development and application of machine learning techniques into products and AI solutions, enabling customers to do the same.

  • Contribute to a culture of technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the AI Software team.

  • Participate in design and code reviews.

  • Work independently with minimal supervision.

Minimum Qualifications (Must Have)
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.

  • Projects or Internships experience (Entry level) / 2+ years (Senior) of general software development experience.

  • Proficiency in software development using C/C++.

  • Experience with development in a Linux environment.

  • Strong software development skills, including data structure and algorithm design, object-oriented or other software design paradigms, software debugging, and testing.

  • Excellent communication skills (verbal, presentation, and writing).

Preferred Qualifications (Desired)
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

  • 1+ years of experience building embedded software applications.

  • Familiarity with various generative AI model architectures such as LLMs.

  • Strong understanding of hardware acceleration and deployment of generative AI inference at the connected edge.

  • Experience with development in various platforms such as Linux, Android, or Windows.

  • Knowledge of low-level interactions between operating systems (e.g., Linux, Android, Windows) and hardware.

  • Experience with CMake-based build environments.

  • Experience using/integrating Qualcomm AI Stack products (e.g. QNN, Genie).

  • Experience with agile software development practices and git-based SCM.

  • Ability to collaborate across a globally diverse team and manage multiple interests.

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$140,800.00 - $211,200.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985