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Gem Cutter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PDF Solutions

Director, OEM Software Programs

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$297K/yr

PDF Solutions is at the forefront of revolutionizing the semiconductor industry with cutting-edge ... GEM, EDA), and system integration. • Represent PDF Solutions as the senior technical leader with ...

Redding Veterinary Clinic

Veterinarian

Redding, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We're an independently owned small animal practice--not corporate, not cookie-cutter. Since new ... Where We Are Redding, California is a hidden gem in far Northern California--2.5 hours north of ...

Artech Information System LLC

DevOps Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$62 - $84.75/hr

We are one of the fastest-growing companies in the US and we welcome you to search the thousands of jobs in our cutting-edge GEM system for employment opportunities that fit your qualifications. At ...

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Gem Cutter information

See California salary details

$7

$16

$19

How much do gem cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for gem cutter in California is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a gem cutter faces when working with different types of gemstones?

Gem Cutters often encounter unique challenges depending on the hardness, cleavage, and inclusions present in each gemstone. For example, softer stones like opal require extra care to avoid scratches and fractures, while harder stones like sapphire demand precision tools and techniques to achieve the desired cut. Additionally, internal flaws or inclusions can impact how a stone is shaped and polished, requiring Gem Cutters to adjust their approach to maximize brilliance and minimize waste. Adapting to these variables is an important part of the role and helps ensure the best possible outcome for each gem.

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

To thrive as a Gem Cutter, you need precise hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of gemology, often supported by vocational training or a gemology certification. Familiarity with gem-cutting tools such as faceting machines, lathes, and magnification systems is essential. Patience, problem-solving abilities, and a meticulous work ethic are critical soft skills for producing high-quality stones. These competencies ensure that gems are cut to maximize their beauty, value, and structural integrity, meeting industry standards and client expectations.

What is the difference between Gem Cutter vs Jewelry Designer?

AspectGem CutterJewelry Designer
CredentialsGemology certification, gem cutting trainingDesign courses, jewelry design certifications
Work EnvironmentGem cutting workshops, laboratoriesDesign studios, jewelry stores
Industry UsageFocuses on shaping gemstonesFocuses on creating jewelry designs

While both roles are integral to the jewelry industry, a Gem Cutter specializes in shaping and polishing gemstones, requiring gemology knowledge and precision. A Jewelry Designer creates the overall design and aesthetic of jewelry pieces, often collaborating with gem cutters. Both professions require artistic skill but focus on different aspects of jewelry creation.

What is a gem cutter?

Gem cutters, also known as lapidaries, are skilled artisans who shape, cut, and polish gemstones to enhance their appearance and value. They use specialized tools and techniques to transform rough stones into finished gems suitable for use in jewelry or decorative pieces. The process requires precision, an eye for detail, and knowledge of different gemstones' properties. Gem cutters must carefully plan each cut to maximize the stone's brilliance and minimize waste. Their work is crucial in bringing out the beauty and quality of gemstones.
What are popular job titles related to Gem Cutter jobs in California? For Gem Cutter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gem Cutter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Gem Cutter jobs in California are:
Gem Cutter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gem Cutter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,849 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Director, OEM Software Programs

PDF Solutions

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$297K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
PDF Solutions is at the forefront of revolutionizing the semiconductor industry with cutting-edge technologies and data-driven solutions. They are seeking a Director, OEM Software Programs to provide senior technical and program leadership for major OEM software initiatives, ensuring alignment and delivery of next-generation equipment control solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Provide strategic and technical leadership for a major OEM software program, including architecture direction, program governance, and customer alignment.
• Partner with engineering, product management, solutions, and QA to drive requirements, technical strategy, and multi-milestone planning.
• Oversee architectural decisions and development efforts for C#-based equipment control modules, sequencing logic, connectivity (SECS/GEM, EDA), and system integration.
• Represent PDF Solutions as the senior technical leader with the OEM partner, ensuring transparent communication, strategic alignment, and long-range planning.
• Mentor and guide engineering leaders, architects, and development teams, enabling consistent technical execution and scalable processes.
• Manage program-level risks, schedules, dependencies, and cross-functional coordination to ensure delivery of high-quality, production-ready software.
• Ensure consistent alignment with the CCF/ECF frameworks and lead technical reviews, verification planning, and deployment readiness.
• Drive best practices for architecture, documentation, design reviews, testing methodology, and maintainability across the program.
• Contribute to long-term planning for OEM engagement models, technology adoption, and platform evolution.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 15+ years of software engineering experience, including deep expertise in C# /.NET and multithreaded or real-time industrial systems.
• Strong background in equipment control systems within semiconductor or similar industrial automation environments.
• Extensive knowledge of GEM/SECS/EDA standards and advanced automation architectures.
• Proven leadership of large-scale engineering programs and customer-facing initiatives, ideally with OEMs.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring senior engineers, architects, and technical leads.
• Excellent cross-functional communication skills with comfort presenting to both customer executives and internal leadership.
Preferred:
• Experience with CIMControlFramework (CCF) or equivalent equipment control platforms.
• Knowledge of gRPC, Avalonia UI, or cross-platform C# development.
• Background in digital twin, simulation, or equipment modeling technologies.
• Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing processes, fab automation, or OEM tool integration.
Company:
PDF Solutions offers an analytics platform that provides comprehensive data solutions to the semiconductor and electronics industries. Founded in 1992, the company is headquartered in Santa Clara, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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