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Hardware Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Samtec, Inc

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA

Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing your work ...

samtec

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Description Position at Samtec, Inc Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex ...

Samtec

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA

$190K - $225K/yr

Descripcion Puesto en Samtec, Inc Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical ...

Samtec, Inc

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing your work ...

iTalent Digital

Hardware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$77.33/hr

iTalent Digital is seeking a Hardware Engineer to join our Technology Practice Group. This role is located in San Jose, CA. This is an exciting role for the right individual to continue to cultivate ...

SAIC

Principal Hardware Engineer

Santa Maria, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Hardware Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Secret Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE ...

New

Velia multiservices

Hardware Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Define hardware safety architecture with redundant interlocks and fail-safe defaults. Build and run bring-up benches and first-article validation. Collaborate closely with firmware engineers on ...

Samtec, Inc Careers

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Description Position at Samtec, Inc Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex ...

iKrusher Inc.

Vape Hardware Engineer

Arcadia, CA

$70K - $75K/yr

Vape Hardware Engineer Location : United States (Nationwide Travel Required) Travel : 40-70% Employment Type : Full-time Compensation : Salary Range: $70,000 - $75,000 annually (based on experience ...

Samtec

Hardware Engineer

San Diego, CA

$190K - $225K/yr

Samtec, Inc Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing ...

hyve solutions

Hardware Engineer IV

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

What You'll Do As a Hardware Engineer, you'll play a critical role in configuring, validating, and optimizing hardware solutions tailored to customer needs. You'll collaborate with engineering, sales ...

Hyve Solutions

Hardware Engineer IV

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

What You'll Do As a Hardware Engineer, you'll play a critical role in configuring, validating, and optimizing hardware solutions tailored to customer needs. You'll collaborate with engineering, sales ...

AMPEX DATA SYSTEMS CORP

Hardware Engineer III

Hayward, CA · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Hardware Engineer III Do you excel in an environment that values working and playing hard? Would you like to be part of a team developing, maintaining, and supporting the latest technologies in the ...

PDDN INC.

Hardware Engineer W2 role

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

Hardware Engineer Work location: Mountain View, CA Interview: Phone/Video Job Type: Contract (C2C/W2) We are looking for a Hardware Engineer to join the Hardware Platform Development team. This role ...

PDDN INC.

Hardware Engineer W2 role

Mountain View, CA

$145K - $192K/yr

Hardware Engineer Work location: Mountain View, CA Interview: Phone/Video Job Type: Contract (C2C/W2) We are looking for a Hardware Engineer to join the Hardware Platform Development team. This role ...

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All JobsHardware Engineer JobsHardware Engineer Jobs in California

Hardware Engineer information

See California salary details

$50.3K

$144.3K

$193.9K

How much do hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware engineer in California is $144,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,900.00 and $160,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hardware engineer?

Hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of computer hardware, such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work closely with software engineers to ensure that hardware and software function together efficiently. Hardware engineers are involved in researching new technologies, improving existing hardware, and troubleshooting issues to enhance system performance. Their work is crucial in industries like computing, telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics.

What are some typical challenges hardware engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Hardware Engineers often collaborate closely with software developers, product managers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is aligning hardware specifications with software requirements, which may change throughout the development cycle. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Hardware Engineers must balance technical constraints, cost considerations, and evolving project goals. Staying proactive in cross-team meetings and clarifying expectations early on can help reduce misunderstandings and ensure smoother project delivery.

What can a hardware engineer do?

A hardware engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains physical electronic components and systems such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They often use tools like CAD software and may require knowledge of programming, electronics, and industry standards to ensure functionality and reliability in various devices and equipment.

What is the difference between Hardware Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectHardware EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Computer EngineeringBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing hardware components, working in labs or officesDesigning electrical systems, working in labs, manufacturing, or field
Industry UsageElectronics, computer hardware, telecommunicationsPower systems, electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing

Hardware Engineers focus on designing and developing physical electronic components and systems, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems and power distribution. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate in technology industries.

What does a hardware engineer do?

A hardware engineer, or computer hardware engineer, specializes in all aspects of computer hardware, including testing, repairing, building, and maintaining its efficiency. As a hardware engineer, your responsibilities include developing and installing new hardware systems for businesses, providing tech support to users with hardware issues, along with designing and building new products for manufacturers. You may specialize in areas such as internal components, servers, electrical engineering, cellular and tablet devices, or traditional computers and networks.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Engineer, a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and computer architecture is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PCB layout tools, and hardware description languages, as well as certifications like Certified Hardware Design Engineer (CHDE), are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding hardware engineers apart. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable, high-performance hardware products that meet rigorous industry standards.
More about Hardware Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Hardware Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Hardware Engineer jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Hardware Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Engineer jobs in CA? For Hardware Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,315 per year, or $69.4 per hour.

Hardware Engineer

Samtec, Inc

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Samtec rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing your work come to life, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

In this position, you will drive the design, analysis, and development of advanced fiber-optic transceivers and supporting hardware, working across optoelectronics, high-speed circuits, and system-level design in a collaborative R&D environment.

This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building, testing, and refining hardware while contributing to next-generation connectivity solutions.

What You’ll Experience:

·         High-impact technical ownership influencing product performance and innovation

·         Hands-on involvement in R&D and new product development

·         Strong autonomy from concept through implementation

·         Collaboration with a skilled, forward-thinking engineering team

·         Exposure to advanced technologies shaping next-generation designs

Essential Functions / Responsibilities:

·         Design of high-speed and high-precision electronics, including experience with firmware-enabled systems. Application of power integrity and RF signal integrity principles and simulation techniques.

·         Understanding of fundamental optical data communication systems principles and optical signal integrity impairments, particularly in multi-mode fiber-optic systems. Familiarity with optical communication standards, 1G NRZ to 100G PAM4

·         Experience with a broad range of DC/RF/Optical test and measurement techniques and equipment with hands-on skills needed to prototype, bring-up, debug, and characterize electrical/optical systems.

Preferred Skills:

·         Strong analytical skills with an emphasis on understanding and applying fundamental principles. Ability to synthesize a broad range of complex inputs and apply rigorous processes to drive critical outcomes.

·         Strong coding skills across multiple platforms, including familiarity with database systems. Familiarity with statistical and algorithmic data analysis techniques as well as novel AI approaches.

·         Strong written and verbal communication skills. Comfortable engaging with vendors and customers. Ability to develop and document requirements, implementation details, user guidelines, and product specifications.

·         Good organizational skills and ability to lead small technical teams.

·         Understanding of PCB fabrication and assembly technologies. Experience working with PCB fabricators and assemblers to define layer stack-ups, converge DFM reviews, and resolve SMT assembly issues.

·         Familiarity with the interplay of optical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical considerations in the design of optical transceivers. Basic understanding of optics principles involved in fiber-optic coupling. Working knowledge of basic mechanical design principles including materials, fabrication techniques, and tolerancing.

·         Familiarity with bare-metal firmware implementation and FPGA-based systems, particularly including high-speed serial I/O.

·         Development of test concepts and novel test solutions for EVT/DVT and production.

Required Experience:

  • 15+ years of experience in hardware design, fiber optic communication, and related fields.
  • Success in creating and maturing new technologies from concept through early validation.
  • Proven record of technical leadership and independent problem solving.

Education:

  • BS in Electrical Engineering or a related field required.
  • MS or Ph.D. preferred.

Salary and benefit offerings:

The salary range for this position is $190,000 – $225,000 annually, based on experience, plus generous Samtec bonuses paid three times per year (February, August, and late fall). Samtec offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (HSA/PPO), dental, vision, group life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 401(k) with company match, profit sharing, and a variety of voluntary benefit options, along with paid time off.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the US on an unrestricted basis for any employer. 

About Samtec: 

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $950 million global manufacturer of a broad line of electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products to optimize both the performance and cost of a system from the bare die to an interface 100 meters away, and all interconnect points in between. With 40+ international locations and products sold in more than 125 different countries, Samtec’s global presence enables its unmatched customer service. 

Samtec is the industry-leading provider of mid-board optical transceiver solutions. This growing and comprehensive family of products provides reliable signal integrity over an extended distance in chip-to-chip, board-to-board, on-board and system-to-system connectivity. Optical products are offered with Samtec’s Sudden Service® - full engineering support, online tools and a service attitude that is unmatched.

SAMTEC, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to creating a diverse environment. All employment decisions at Samtec are based in business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, pregnancy or parental status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity/expression, marital status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws.

This position will remain open until filled.

What Samtec employees say

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About SAMTEC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Albany, IN, US

Year founded

1976

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