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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Prolim Global

Electronic Technician 2

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Support development engineering activities involving prototype hardware, specialized test equipment ... Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.

Chenega Corporation

System Administrator

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Support installation and integration of new hardware and software components. * Administer, monitor ... Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field ...

SPECTRUM

Entry Level Sales

San Luis Obispo, CA

$30K/yr

Familiarity with computer operating systems and software applications as well as consumer and ... Beyond our connectivity solutions, we also provide local news, programming and regional sports via ...

Onterris

LDAR Field Project Manager

Santa Maria, CA

$30/hr

Our scientists, engineers, field teams,consultantsand professionals collaborate across disciplines ... Intermediate knowledge in LDAR related hardware and tools * Effective computer skills (Excel and ...

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All JobsComputer Hardware Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Hardware Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$112.2K

$149.1K

$183K

How much do entry level computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer hardware engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $149,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,000.00 and $175,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level computer hardware engineer?

An Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer designs, tests, and develops computer hardware components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to improve system performance and troubleshoot hardware issues. Their responsibilities may also include collaborating with software engineers to ensure compatibility between hardware and software. Typically, they are employed by technology companies, hardware manufacturers, or research institutions. This role requires a background in electrical or computer engineering and proficiency in hardware design tools.

What are typical projects or tasks for an entry level computer hardware engineer?

Entry-level computer hardware engineers are often involved in tasks such as assisting in the design and testing of circuit boards, performing system integration, and supporting senior engineers with troubleshooting and validation. They may also be responsible for documenting test results, updating schematics, and conducting research on new components or technologies. Team members frequently work together to prototype hardware solutions, address technical challenges, and ensure products meet performance and safety standards. This collaborative environment provides valuable on-the-job learning and exposure to the full hardware development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level computer hardware engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer, you need a solid understanding of digital and analog circuits, computer architecture, and a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with hardware design tools like Verilog/VHDL, PCB layout software, and proficiency in using oscilloscopes or logic analyzers are often required, along with relevant internships or lab experience. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure you can contribute to the design, testing, and troubleshooting of hardware systems while collaborating smoothly with multidisciplinary teams.

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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,142 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Test Engineer I / II

Inspired Flight Technologies, Inc

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$76K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Inspired Flight's Purpose Statement says it all - Conserving resources, creating jobs, and saving lives by innovating the American drone manufacturing. Founded in San Luis Obispo, California our entirely U.S. based team designs, builds and supports highly capable and flexible drone platforms for both commercial and government customers.
Our purpose driven team exemplifies our Core Values. We are:
Collaborative: We harness the collective intelligence and energy of our team to surpass individual potentials and achieve shared goals.
Resilient: We approach obstacles with flexibility and creativity, supporting one another to stay focused, resourceful, and determined.
Diverse: We place a high value in people of all heritages, genders, sexual orientations, and points of view to spark innovation and solutions, enriching our work environment and outputs.
Continuously Improving: We are committed to ongoing learning and innovation by always seeking ways to enhance our processes, products, and personal expertise.
Underlying all of this is our deeply rooted belief that the cutting-edge aerial tools we create are advancing an industry that is good for people, good for our planet and good for the United States of America.
Location
This is an in-office position for hire at Inspired Flight's HQ in San Luis Obispo, CA.
Job Description
Inspired Flight is seeking a talented and experienced Test Engineer to join our Engineering team. A Test Engineer is a specialized role responsible for the validation of complex systems within the drone architecture through various forms of bench and flight testing.
This position is at the core of the engineering department at Inspired Flight and will be part of a rapidly growing company in the growing UAV industry.
Typical responsibilities:
  • Work closely with design engineers, systems engineers, and program managers to define requirements and associated test plans.
  • Develop, document, and execute test plans for hardware and software development projects.
  • Collect, record, and analyze test data to identify anomalies and trends.
  • Generate test reports summarizing results, findings, and recommendations.
  • Set up and operate drones, payloads, and test equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and identify root causes for test failures.
  • Identify opportunities to improve design of drone and ground controller systems.

You'll excel in this role if you have:
  • Ability to follow detailed test procedures and document results accurately.
  • Strong attention to detail and systematic troubleshooting mindset.
  • Experience with UAS/drone systems.
  • Familiarity with flight controller software (ArduPilot, PX4) or ground control stations (Mission Planner, QGroundControl).
  • UAV Pilot experience and/or a FAA Part 107 License.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Education/Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent discipline
  • 0-2 years experience for level 1
  • 2-5 years experience for level 2
  • Experience in a related field, preferably: UAS, aviation, aerospace, robotics, autonomy or defense industry.

Salary & Benefits Offered
  • $76,000-$95,000 DOE for level 1
  • $90,000-$113,000 DOE for level 2
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • World Class Health, Dental, Vision Insurance Plan
  • 401k w/ 6% company match
  • Quarterly Team Bonus Plan

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee may need to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Inspired Flight is deeply committed to building a workplace where inclusion is not only valued, but prioritized. We pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer that seeks to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, or expression, family status, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, neurodiversity, age, or veteran status, or any other non-merit based or legally protected grounds.
The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

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