ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hardware Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Belcan

Test Engineer, BMS Hardware

Berkeley, CA

$75.19/hr

In this role you will be responsible for executing design verification testing at the component and system-level for our battery management system (BMS) hardware. To be considered for this role you ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

You will be responsible for development testing on early prototypes and qualification testing on ... hardware engineer.ResponsibilitiesTest ExecutionUse oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and other ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

You will be responsible for development testing on early prototypes and qualification testing on ... hardware engineer.ResponsibilitiesTest ExecutionUse oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and other ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Hardware Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$143K - $190K/yr

You will be responsible for development testing on early prototypes and qualification testing on ... hardware engineer.ResponsibilitiesTest ExecutionUse oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and other ...

Crusoe

Staff Hardware Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

Develop and maintain scripting and automation frameworks for hardware testing, diagnostics, and continuous reliability improvements. * Lead deep troubleshooting and debugging across: * PCIe (link ...

Crusoe

Staff Hardware Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

Develop and maintain scripting and automation frameworks for hardware testing, diagnostics, and continuous reliability improvements. * Lead deep troubleshooting and debugging across: * PCIe (link ...

Crusoe

Staff Hardware Systems Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$144K - $191K/yr

Develop and maintain scripting and automation frameworks for hardware testing, diagnostics, and continuous reliability improvements. * Lead deep troubleshooting and debugging across: * PCIe (link ...

Cloud Destinations LLC

Hardware Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Hardware Testing Engineer # of Roles: Multiple Roles Location: Santa Clara, Ca (Onsite daily) Duration: 5 months Shift Notes: Must be will to work OT and weekends as necessary What you'll be doing:

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHardware Testing JobsHardware Testing Jobs in California

Hardware Testing information

See California salary details

$12

$24

$47

How much do hardware testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware testing in California is $24.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is software testing still in demand?

Software testing remains in demand as companies prioritize quality assurance and software reliability. Testers with skills in automation tools and scripting are especially sought after, and the role often requires knowledge of programming languages and testing frameworks.

What is hardware testing?

Hardware testing is the process of evaluating and verifying the functionality, performance, and reliability of physical devices and components, such as circuit boards, processors, and electronic assemblies. It involves running tests to ensure that the hardware meets design specifications and operates correctly under various conditions. Hardware testers may use specialized equipment and software to identify defects, measure performance, and confirm compatibility with other systems. This process is critical for ensuring that products are safe, reliable, and ready for market release.

Which testing is the highest salary?

In hardware testing, roles such as senior hardware test engineers or test managers typically have the highest salaries due to their experience and leadership responsibilities. Specialized skills in automation tools, FPGA testing, or certifications like ISTQB can also lead to higher compensation within the field.

Is QA a difficult job?

Quality Assurance (QA) in hardware testing can be challenging due to the need for attention to detail, understanding of technical specifications, and troubleshooting skills. The job often requires patience, problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with testing tools and procedures, but it can also be rewarding for those interested in ensuring product quality and reliability.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in hardware testing roles?

Hardware testing professionals often encounter challenges related to troubleshooting complex system failures, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, and meeting tight project deadlines. They must work closely with design and engineering teams to replicate and diagnose issues, which requires strong communication and analytical skills. Additionally, balancing thorough testing with the need for timely product releases can be demanding, making effective time management and prioritization essential in this role.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Testing Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, circuit analysis, and test design, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with testing tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, automated test equipment, and industry certifications like ISTQB are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate product validation, reduce errors, and facilitate efficient product development cycles.

What is the difference between Hardware Testing vs Hardware Design?

AspectHardware TestingHardware Design
Primary FocusVerifying and validating hardware functionality and reliabilityCreating and developing hardware components and schematics
Required SkillsTesting procedures, troubleshooting, knowledge of testing toolsCircuit design, CAD tools, technical specifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing labs, manufacturing facilitiesDesign studios, engineering offices, R&D labs
CertificationsHardware testing certifications, electronics certificationsElectrical engineering degrees, design certifications

Hardware Testing and Hardware Design are distinct roles within the hardware development process. Testing focuses on verifying hardware functionality, while design involves creating hardware solutions. Both roles require technical skills but serve different stages of product development.

What are popular job titles related to Hardware Testing jobs in California? For Hardware Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Hardware Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Hardware Testing job openings:
Hardware Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Testing job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,484 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Hardware Testing Engineer Group C

Hardware Testing Engineer Group C

Catapult Solutions Group

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$37/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Hardware Testing Engineer Group C
Department: Engineering - Lab Operations
Location: Santa Clara, CA (On-site daily)
Role Type: Contract - 5 months
About Our Client
Our client is a world-class advanced technology center operated by a leading global technology solutions provider with $9+ billion in annual revenue. They partner with the world's foremost computing manufacturers to design, validate, and test cutting-edge hardware and infrastructure solutions. With 100+ racks of lab equipment spanning silicon bring-up, server systems, and advanced compute platforms, they support critical engineering operations for Fortune 500 companies and technology innovators globally.
Job Description
You'll join a fast-paced hardware validation lab supporting critical engineering operations for next-generation computing platforms. This role sits at the intersection of hardware expertise, Linux systems administration, and datacenter infrastructure-directly enabling product development and customer solutions. You'll work on diverse systems ranging from individual boards to full server racks, troubleshooting real-world hardware/software integration issues while maintaining lab efficiency and uptime. The team prioritizes speed, precision, and the ability to pivot quickly as priorities shift.
Your work directly impacts product launches and customer deployments, making attention to detail and communication essential. You'll report to the Lab Engineering Lead and collaborate closely with hardware engineers, firmware teams, and customer support staff.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assemble, configure, and commission server systems and development platforms from component-level through full rack deployment.
  • Update firmware on multiple systems simultaneously and monitor diagnostic workloads for boot, stability, and performance issues.
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software failures; perform root cause analysis and document findings for engineering teams.
  • Recover failed systems/trays; perform OS deployments, system recovery procedures, and hardware replacement as needed.
  • Connect test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters) to boards; collect and interpret signal waveform data to validate circuit behavior.
  • Support rack bring-up activities including basic mechanical reworks (power tools), cable routing, and inventory management.
  • Maintain lab safety, equipment organization, and lab documentation; identify and implement process improvements.
  • Work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and on-call support to ensure 24/7 lab coverage during critical engineering phases.

Required Experience/Skills
  • 12-18 months hands-on experience in an electronics/testing lab, manufacturing, datacenter operations, or large-scale server environment.
  • Linux command-line proficiency - comfortable troubleshooting kernel issues, managing processes, permissions, file systems, and networking from the CLI.
  • Server hardware fundamentals - practical knowledge of provisioning, OS deployment, firmware flashing, system recovery, and hardware troubleshooting.
  • Basic networking knowledge - TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, switching, routing fundamentals; ability to support rack bring-up and network configuration.
  • Bash and/or Python scripting - can write basic scripts to automate testing, logging, or system diagnostics.
  • Attention to detail and communication - ability to document issues clearly, follow schematics, and collaborate with engineers across time zones.
  • Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and rotating shifts as business needs require.

Nice-to-Haves
  • Experience with x86 and ARM processor architectures.
  • BMC (Baseboard Management Controller) or server management processor experience.
  • Experience with oscilloscopes and signal measurement for circuit validation.
  • Ability to perform basic solder reworks or board-level repairs.
  • Experience with GPU computing or accelerated hardware platforms.
  • Manufacturing, hardware validation, or QA lab background.

Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred but not required with equivalent hands-on experience.

Pay & Benefits Summary
Compensation: $37.00/hour
Work Schedule: On-site daily, rotating shifts including nights/weekends during peak engineering phases
Call-to-Action
Ready to accelerate your hardware engineering career? If you're hands-on with Linux, passionate about troubleshooting systems, and excited to support next-generation technology platforms, apply now. Submit your resume and we'll be in touch within 48 hours to discuss the opportunity.

Apply