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Microprocessor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sunrise Systems, Inc.

Thermal Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$60/hr

Requires demonstrated technical expertise in functional verification of microprocessor designs; Experience with Verilog, System Verilog, UVM, programming in Perl & C/C++, logic simulation is a ...

HCL America Inc

Android Developer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$65.75 - $86.50/hr

... bit microprocessor-based computer in 1978 well before its global peers. Today, the HCL enterprise has a presence across varied sectors that include technology, healthcare and talent management ...

Monarch Quantum

Firmware Engineer 5

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$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 ...

HCL America Inc

Android Developer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$65.75 - $86.50/hr

... bit microprocessor-based computer in 1978 well before its global peers. Today, the HCL enterprise has a presence across varied sectors that include technology, healthcare and talent management ...

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 · On-site

$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 ...

Monarch Quantum

Firmware Engineer 4

San Diego, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Lockheed Martin

Electro Mechanical Technician

Sunnyvale, CA

$29.25 - $37/hr

... microprocessor/computer controlled systems, and machine tools, with associated peripherals. Rework, service, maintain, modify, troubleshoot and repair industrial electro-mechanical equipment, systems ...

PG&E Corporation

Electrical Technician

Tracy, CA

$82.53/hr

... microprocessor and electro-mechanical); substation and electric utility protection systems; station automation and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. This job requires the ...

Collabera

Hardware Lab Technician

San Jose, CA

Over the past few years, Collabera has been awarded numerous accolades and Industry recognition's Must have knowledge of X86 Microprocessor, I2c, SPI, DDR3 and DDR4 and PCIe buses. Must be able to ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Relay Technician

Tahoe Vista, CA

$86.11/hr

Download, verify, and troubleshoot logic programming and microprocessor relay systems * Certify all related wiring, performing operational checks, and gathering in-service test data * Evaluate data ...

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 ...

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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.
Software Engineer - Platform Technologies

Software Engineer - Platform Technologies

SiFive

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About SiFive

As the pioneers who introduced RISC-V to the world, SiFive is transforming the future of compute by bringing the limitless potential of RISC-V to the highest performance and most data-intensive applications in the world. SiFive's unrivaled compute platforms are continuing to enable leading technology companies around the world to innovate, optimize and deliver the most advanced solutions of tomorrow across every market segment of chip design, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits.

At SiFive, we are always excited to connect with talented individuals, who are just as passionate about driving innovation and changing the world as we are.

Our constant innovation and ongoing success is down to our amazing teams of incredibly talented people, who collaborate and support each other to come up with truly groundbreaking ideas and solutions. Solutions that will have a huge impact on people's lives; making the world a better place, one processor at a time.

Are you ready?

To learn more about SiFive's phenomenal success and to see why we have won theGSA's prestigious Most Respected Private Company Award(for the fourth time!), check out ourwebsiteandGlassdoorpages.

Job Description:

The Role:

Join SiFive's tools team to develop and maintain the core tools and flows required for microprocessor design. Work on simulation and build tools to validate microprocessor designs, as well as the infrastructure around those flows. An ideal candidate will have systems-level programming experience; have built complex systems with multiple tools communicating through multiple means such as files, pipes, shared memory, databases, and REST calls; and have a strong desire to produce correct and tested tools.

Requirements:

  • Systems programming experience.

  • Fluency in C++ and Python.

  • Fluency with standard Linux-based development environments and tools.

  • Experience with build tools and languages, including make and cmake.

  • Test and verification methodologies for software tools.

Desired:

  • Above-average knowledge of processor microarchitecture.

  • Detailed profiling experience.

  • Experience with simulation and emulation tools, especially development of them (e.g. QEMU, etc).

If you want to do incredible work and be challenged by exciting, truly innovative projects that will test the boundaries of your skills and creativity, then SiFive is the place for you! Be proud of your work. Do things better. Join SiFive.

In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for variable/ incentive compensation and/ or equity. In addition, this role is eligible for a comprehensive, competitive benefits package which may include healthcare and retirement plans, paid time off, and more!

Additional Information:

This position requires a successful background and reference checks and satisfactory proof of your right to work in

United States of America

Any offer of employment for this position is also contingent on the Company verifying that you are a authorized for access to export-controlled technology under applicable export control laws or, if you are not already authorized, our ability to successfully obtain any necessary export license(s) or other approvals.

SiFive is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

As an E-Verify employer, we use this system to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires in accordance with federal law. All applicants will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, upon hire. We do not use E-Verify to pre-screen job candidates and will comply with all E-Verify regulations.

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