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Hardware Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Hardware Systems Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$129K - $173K/yr

We are looking to hire a Hardware Systems Engineer who will work in the test solutions group at NVIDIA developing manufacturing test solutions for Datacenter products. Through HW and SW expertise ...

Lead ModelBased Systems Engineering (MBSE) efforts for largescale, multidisciplinary ... Proven track record to collaborate effectively across hardware, software, and manufacturing ...

Collaborates with other systems engineers to ensure these are well documented and have visibility to other stakeholders. * Collaborate with mechanical engineers to optimize custom hardware such as ...

Collaborates with other systems engineers to ensure these are well documented and have visibility to other stakeholders. * Collaborate with mechanical engineers to optimize custom hardware such as ...

Collaborates with other systems engineers to ensure these are well documented and have visibility to other stakeholders. * Collaborate with mechanical engineers to optimize custom hardware such as ...

Collaborates with other systems engineers to ensure these are well documented and have visibility to other stakeholders. * Collaborate with mechanical engineers to optimize custom hardware such as ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$50.3K

$144.3K

$193.9K

How much do hardware systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware systems 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior hardware systems engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in FPGA, ASIC design, or embedded systems, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in large companies, advanced certifications, and leadership positions in engineering teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hardware Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and hardware integration, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD tools (like Altium or OrCAD), simulation software, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications such as IPC or IEEE is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set exceptional engineers apart. These skills ensure reliable hardware solutions, efficient development processes, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior hardware systems engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in designing complex electronic systems, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, specialized skills in FPGA, ASIC design, or embedded systems, and work in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.

What does a hardware systems engineer do?

A hardware systems engineer designs, develops, and tests complex hardware components and systems, such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They often work with CAD tools, troubleshoot hardware issues, and collaborate with software engineers to ensure hardware and software integration. Strong knowledge of electronics, schematics, and industry standards is essential for this role.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced hardware systems engineers working in specialized fields such as aerospace, defense, or semiconductor industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with seniority, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, particularly in large corporations or startups with significant growth potential.

What are some common challenges faced by Hardware Systems Engineers during cross-functional projects?

Hardware Systems Engineers often work closely with software teams, product managers, and manufacturing to deliver integrated solutions. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment across these diverse teams, especially when requirements or timelines shift. Additionally, balancing system performance, cost, and manufacturability can be complex, requiring careful coordination and frequent design iterations. Proactively engaging with stakeholders and maintaining thorough documentation can help mitigate these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Systems Engineer jobs in California? For Hardware Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Systems Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Hardware Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Hardware Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Hardware Systems Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,315 per year, or $69.4 per hour.
Senior Hardware Systems Engineer

Senior Hardware Systems Engineer

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$129K - $173K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 209 rated software companies


Job description

We are looking to hire a Hardware Systems Engineer who will work in the test solutions group at NVIDIA developing manufacturing test solutions for Datacenter products. Through HW and SW expertise, you will explore challenging areas of tester design and test automation to find the right solutions. NVIDIA has continuously reinvented itself over two decades. Our invention of the GPU in 1999 sparked the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU enabled modern AI - the next era of computing. NVIDIA is a "learning machine" that constantly evolves by adapting to new opportunities that are hard to solve, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work: to amplify human creativity and intelligence. Make the choice to join our growing team today!
What you will be doing:
  • Define and implement manufacturing test solutions for Datacenter System products.
  • Investigate and introduce new manufacturing test technology and methodology to improve production efficiency.
  • Develop test strategy for new product features including identification, specification, design and qualification of test fixtures, test equipment and diagnostic software.
  • Review and provide feedback for DFT in the early design stages.
  • Debug complex hardware and software issues during build phases.

What We Need to See:
  • 8+ years of post-silicon validation experience with board-level or system-level hardware products.
  • MS or BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • Proven experience developing and executing manufacturing test programs at the platform level.
  • Hands-on experience with datacenter platforms and associated validation workflows
  • Proficiency in Python programming and Bash scripting for test automation and tooling
  • Strong problem-solving skills with sharp attention to detail and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across teams.

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
  • Deep expertise in system-level validation and test, with a demonstrated ability to define test strategy, architect test methodologies, and lead continuous improvement initiatives across hardware test workflows
  • Proven experience collaborating with Contract Manufacturers (CMs) and ODMs to define, develop, and deploy scalable hardware test solutions across the product lifecycle

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, we are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear from you. Come build the future with us!
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 253,000 USD.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until May 3, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993