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Microprocessor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ALTEN Technology USA

FPGA Firmware Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$135K - $140K/yr

Validate all digital inputs and outputs with particular attention to the microprocessor interface on both overspeed and communication FPGAs * Provide complete pin allocation documentation for both ...

PG&E Corporation

Electrical Technician

Huron, CA

Performs programming, installation, calibration, testing, troubleshooting, maintenance and installation of electromechanical, solid state and microprocessor protective relays, automation and control ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Sr. Test Engineer

Irvine, CA

Developing TPSs for microprocessor-based circuits, and MIL-STD-1553/MIL-STD-1760 products * Windows-based test software development with design tools such as ATLAS, ATEasy, LabView, Visual Basic ...

Monarch Quantum

Firmware Engineer 5

San Diego, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Work as lead architect in developing FPGA based solutions utilizing hybrid C/C++ microprocessor and HDL fabric architectures. * Provide firmware subject matter expertise in architectural development ...

Monarch Quantum

Firmware Engineer 4

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$175K - $225K/yr

Develop FPGA based solutions utilizing hybrid C/C++ microprocessor and HDL fabric architectures. * Provide firmware subject matter expertise in architectural development and multi-disciplinary design ...

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Microprocessor information

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$14

$25

$35

How much do microprocessor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for microprocessor in California is $25.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Microprocessor Engineer, you need strong knowledge of computer architecture, digital logic design, and a degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, as well as experience with simulation and debugging tools, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for designing efficient microprocessors that meet performance and reliability standards in modern electronic devices.

What are microprocessors?

Microprocessors are integrated circuits that function as the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer or other electronic device. They execute instructions, perform calculations, and manage data flow, enabling complex operations in everything from personal computers to smartphones and embedded systems. Microprocessors are crucial in modern technology, as they control and coordinate the activities of all the other components in a system.

Are microprocessors still used today?

Microprocessors are still widely used today as the central processing units in computers, smartphones, and many electronic devices. They are essential for executing software and controlling hardware functions, with advancements in semiconductor technology continuously improving their performance and efficiency.

Is a CPU a microprocessor?

A microprocessor is a type of CPU that integrates the central processing unit onto a single chip, enabling compact and efficient computing. Microprocessors are fundamental components in computers and embedded systems, requiring knowledge of digital logic and programming for job roles in hardware design and development.

What is the difference between Microprocessor vs Microcontroller?

AspectMicroprocessorMicrocontroller
Primary FunctionProcesses data and executes instructions for a computer systemIntegrates processing, memory, and I/O on a single chip for embedded applications
ComponentsCPU only, requires external memory and peripheralsIncludes CPU, memory, and peripherals on one chip
Work EnvironmentUsed in PCs, servers, and complex systemsUsed in embedded systems, appliances, and automotive devices
Common CertificationsNone specific, related to computer engineeringEmbedded systems certifications often relevant

In summary, microprocessors are designed for high-performance computing with external components, while microcontrollers integrate all necessary components on a single chip for embedded applications. Both roles require knowledge of digital electronics and programming, but their applications and environments differ significantly.

Who invented the microprocessor in 1971?

The Intel 4004, considered the first microprocessor, was invented by Intel engineers Federico Faggin, Ted Hoff, and Stanley Mazor in 1971. As a microprocessor designer, understanding the history of early integrated circuits can be valuable for roles involving hardware development and embedded systems.

What is a microprocessor?

A microprocessor is a compact integrated circuit that functions as the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer, executing instructions to perform tasks. Microprocessors are used in a wide range of electronic devices, requiring knowledge of digital logic, programming, and hardware design. Skills in circuit design, programming languages like Assembly or C, and familiarity with development tools are important for microprocessor-related jobs.

What are common challenges faced by microprocessor design engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Microprocessor design engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance with power consumption, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals, and meeting tight project deadlines. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including hardware, software, and verification engineers. Utilizing industry-standard design tools, keeping up-to-date with emerging technologies, and participating in regular design reviews can help mitigate these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Microprocessor jobs in California? For Microprocessor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microprocessor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Microprocessor jobs in California are:
Microprocessor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microprocessor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,327 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Microprocessor Silicon Validation and Optimization Engineer

Microprocessor Silicon Validation and Optimization Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA

$115K - $173K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Qualcomm rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 191 rated software companies

Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > ASICS Engineering
General Summary:
Working on cutting-edge microprocessor development is one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding careers in computer engineering. At Qualcomm, engineers are encouraged to push boundaries-there are no limits to innovation, technical excellence, or career growth.
This role offers the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art microprocessors that power mobile devices, mobile compute platforms, AI engines, and server-class solutions. The selected candidate will join the pre-silicon and post-silicon validation and enablement team, contributing across the full lifecycle of microprocessor development within complex SoCs.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute validation strategies across pre-silicon and post-silicon phases
  • Create test content for functional validation and silicon characterization
  • Contribute to pre-silicon verification and emulation
  • Lead and support silicon bring-up and system-level debug
  • Perform detailed silicon and system characterization
  • Provide customer debug and technical support
  • Collaborate closely with design and verification teams to map silicon issues back to design and verification environments and drive root-cause analysis
  • Analyze silicon data, interpret results, and communicate findings through clear summaries and status reports

Experience and Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science with firmware experience
  • Working knowledge of microprocessor and cache/memory architecture and microarchitecture
  • Experience in functional validation and detailed debug or Firmware/BIOS development and testing
  • Experience mapping silicon scenarios to pre-silicon verification environments
  • Proficiency in C/C++; familiarity with assembly languages such as ARM, DSP, or x86/i32
  • Good written and verbal communication skills, particularly for technical analysis and silicon data reporting
  • 5-10 years of experience in microprocessor verification (front-end) and/or silicon validation, with hands-on involvement in silicon bring-up and debug

Note: While this role targets senior-level experience, we encourage candidates at all levels to apply if their skills and interests align with the position.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, or related field and 2+ years of ASIC design, verification, validation, integration, or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Science, Engineering, or related field and 1+ year of ASIC design, verification, validation, integration, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Science, Engineering, or related field.
Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$115,600.00 - $173,400.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.
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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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