1

Machine Vision Software Engineer Jobs in California

Our organization combines ground breaking software engineering with the power of machine learning ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer with both strategic vision and hands-on engineering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Vision Software Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Vision Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Vision Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, image processing, and mathematics, usually backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python or C++, machine vision libraries like OpenCV, and experience with deep learning frameworks are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers design robust solutions and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for developing accurate, efficient vision systems that meet real-world automation and quality control demands.

What are some of the main challenges Machine Vision Software Engineers face when integrating vision systems into manufacturing environments?

Machine Vision Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring reliable image capture despite varying lighting conditions and accommodating different types of defects or product variations. Integrating vision systems with existing automation hardware and production lines can require close collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers. Additionally, optimizing algorithms for real-time performance while maintaining high accuracy is a frequent necessity. Continuous testing and iterative development are key to addressing these challenges and delivering robust solutions in dynamic manufacturing settings.

What does a Machine Vision Software Engineer do?

A Machine Vision Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems that enable computers to interpret and process visual information from the real world. They work with cameras, sensors, and advanced algorithms to automate tasks such as inspection, identification, measurement, and guidance in industrial and robotics applications. Their responsibilities often include integrating hardware with software, optimizing image processing algorithms, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of vision systems. These engineers play a crucial role in industries like manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, and logistics where automated visual inspection and analysis are essential.

What is the difference between Machine Vision Software Engineer vs Computer Vision Engineer?

AspectMachine Vision Software EngineerComputer Vision Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS, EE, or related; experience with image processingBachelor's or Master's in CS, EE, or related; strong programming skills in Python, C++
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, robotics, quality inspectionAutonomous vehicles, AI research, multimedia applications
Industry UsageManufacturing, industrial automation, roboticsTech, automotive, research institutions
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on industrial and automation applicationsFocus on AI, perception, and multimedia systems

While both roles involve image analysis and programming skills, Machine Vision Software Engineers primarily work on industrial automation and manufacturing systems, whereas Computer Vision Engineers focus on AI-driven perception in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and multimedia applications. The roles overlap in skills but differ in application environments and industry focus.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Vision Software Engineer jobs in California? For Machine Vision Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Vision Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Vision Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Vision Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Vision Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Vision Software Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution.

Staff Machine Control Software Engineer

Halo Industries, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The Company

Halo Industries has invented a technology to replace a decades-old semiconductor material wire saw slicing process that wastes billions of dollars annually in high-value materials.

Halo's laser-based technology eliminates this waste from the silicon carbide (SiC) substrate manufacturing process, delivering improvements in both material cost and performance, while enabling accelerated growth for a diverse set of high-growth application markets, including the electric vehicle, grid infrastructure, industrial HVAC and other high-voltage power electronics sectors.

Halo originally spun out of Stanford University in 2014, acquiring a significant series A round of VC funding in 2020 following the successful demonstration of the company's precision material slicing equipment. Having recently closed on an $80M+ B round of VC funding, Halo is driving the fast-scale growth of the company's team and manufacturing operations.

Halo Industries is well-funded, deeply engaged with multiple strategic customers, and staged to achieve rapid operational, revenue, and valuation growth.

The Opportunity

The evolution of Halo's technology and equipment, growing from an R&D focus to a production manufacturing environment, has triggered the need for an experienced Machine Control Software Engineer who can lead the design, development, and deployment of the company's production line equipment control and automation strategy.

Job Description

      Lead the design and development of operator control systems for production-line mechanical and opto-mechanical tools.

      Architect and implement communication interfaces between equipment, factory systems, and subsystems (e.g., motion control, sensors, lasers, and robotics).

      Develop and integrate industrial communication protocols, including SECS/GEM, TCP/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, and RS232/RS485.

      Develop software in C# for GUI and device communication, integrating user interfaces with hardware control and system monitoring.

      Collaborate with PLC systems (Beckhoff preferred) and ensure consistent control logic using Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) and Ladder Logic.

      Define and enforce control software standards across production equipment.

      Design and maintain high-level device interfaces for lasers, robotics, motion control, and data acquisition hardware.

      Integrate and test machine vision systems (Cognex VisionPro, In-Sight Deep Learning).

      Build and debug state machines for automation control ensuring reliability and recoverability.

      Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and integration engineers to develop end-to-end solutions.

      Conduct thorough system-level and component-level testing.

      Maintain rigorous documentation, version control, and issue tracking (Git, Jira, Confluence).

      Work within Agile development cycles to iterate and deploy features efficiently.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience implementing high-reliability, production-line control systems.
  • Deep understanding of industrial communication protocols: SECS/GEM, EtherCAT, Modbus, TCP/IP, RS232/RS485, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP.
  • Proficiency in C# for GUI development and device communication.
  • Proficiency in PLC programming, ideally Beckhoff TwinCAT 3.
  • Proficiency in C++/ C#, WPF, and .NET for hardware control, GUI development, and data visualization.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong working knowledge of servos, stepper motors, sensors, actuators, and I/O systems.
  • Experience with ACS motion control and machine automation architectures.
  • Familiarity with Git, Jira, and Confluence for collaborative software development.
  • Semiconductor manufacturing or equipment automation experience.
  • Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) integration.
  • Expertise in mechatronics/automation design (motor sizing, actuator selection, sensor configuration).
  • Prior startup or scale-up experience, ideally transitioning from R&D to production.
  • Experience with database systems and factory automation integration.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Free Food & Snacks
  • Stock Option Plan
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Base salary $140,000 - $160,000

Additional Information

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all team members feel valued and supported. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities in STEM. If you meet most of the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply.