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Microprocessor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

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Electronic Test Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

Performing system and board-level testing and troubleshooting of elevator control systems comprised of digital and analog circuits and microprocessor-controlled logic * Validating control systems to ...

Knowledge and experience of microprocessor design and integration is a definite advantage. The job responsibilities include: * Work with system architecture team to define micro-architecture ...

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 ...

Excellent knowledge in Testing and validation of embedded system with Microcontroller/ Microprocessor based systems and associated subsystems such as the power supply, I/O interfaces, and ...

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Microprocessor information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$35

How much do microprocessor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.

What is the job of a microprocessor?

A microprocessor is a computer chip that performs the central processing functions of a computer system, executing instructions to process data and control other hardware components. Microprocessor jobs typically involve designing, testing, programming, and maintaining these chips, often requiring knowledge of digital logic, programming languages, and hardware design tools.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and a track record of significant contributions or leadership.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems architecture can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries like technology or finance. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What is the salary of microprocessor design engineer?

The salary of a microprocessor design engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills in hardware description languages and FPGA design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits based on the employer and industry sector.

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.

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.
Infographic showing various Microprocessor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,327 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Electrical Technician - GC

$85.62/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID # 172044
Job Category: Maintenance / Construction / Operations
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Business Unit: Energy Delivery
Work Type: Onsite
Job Location: Burney
Department Overview
Power Generation maintains and operates PG&E's hydroelectric, fossil and renewable generation facilities, providing more than 4,000 megawatts of generating capacity for our customers. We are an organization of nearly 700 employees dedicated to deliver safe, reliable and cost effective generation to California in an environmentally responsible manner. As an integral and active member of the company team, Power Generation contributes to PG&E's goal of becoming the leading utility in the United States.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an AA/EEO employer that actively pursues and hires a diverse workforce. Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an AA/EEO employer that actively pursues and hires a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Position Summary
This is an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245 represented classification, which has over 100 years of experience representing employees at PG&E. This job is subject to collective bargaining.
Relay Protection Electrical Technician(Hydro) is expected to be proficient in the calibration, installation, maintenance, and operation of the following: protective relays and associated equipment which will ensure the efficient, safe, reliable, and NERC Reliability Standards compliant operation of PG&E generating plants and transmission networks. Responsible for performing work involving an extremely high degree of complexity, including troubleshooting, repairing, overhauling, calibrating, and maintaining components of protective relay systems(microprocessor and electro-mechanical); substation and electric utility protection systems; station automation and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. This job requires the individual to comprehend various types of equipment labels, safety signs, learn and apply technical materials and complete daily logs. The individual must be able to drive safely, work extended hours; travel/transfer to new headquarter upon request at any time, and wear company provided Personal Protective Equipment.
Electrical Technicians assist our team in safely operating and maintaining hydroelectric powerhouses and related facilities as well as the construction and project management expertise to expand and replace this infrastructure as needed. Other duties include installation, field testing, and maintenance of protective relay equipment, relay carriers, supervisory equipment, station apparatus, instruments, remote and local control devices and associated wiring.
Electrical Technicians must be proficient in understanding and deciphering electrical drawing /and schematics. Background of electrical apprenticeship and experience must be such as to qualify an employee to perform these duties with skill and efficiency. You must be comfortable working from heights ascending and descending at high altitudes, around energized and/or large loud, vibrating mechanical rotating equipment. You must be able to maneuver frequently on stairs and ladders, over rock, gravel, and concrete, metal grating, scaffolding, and wood; which may include narrow and uneven surfaces; work in confined and awkward positions and drive and work in extreme weather conditions in remote work locations. Working environment is predominantly outdoors, and may include exposure to poison oak, snakes, ticks, spiders, rodents and insects.
The position will require travel between numerous site locations during work hours.
PG&E is providing the hourly rate that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This position is subject to collectively bargained hourly wage rates and increases. The starting wage rate for this position is $85.62 per hour. This wage rate is specific to the locality of the job. The wage rate is based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.
Job Responsibilities
• Install, field test and maintain protective relay equipment, relay carriers, supervisory equipment, station apparatus, instruments, remote and local control devices and associated wiring
• Must be proficient in print reading, specifically elementaries (schematics) & diagram of connections
• Must be able to calibrate electro-mechanical & microprocessor relays which include but not limited to distance, directional overcurrent, overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, differential, frequency, phase unbalance, negative sequence, loss of excitation
• Must be able to test current transformers which include saturation, primary & secondary current ratio, voltage ratio & insulation resistance test
• Must be able to test power & potential (instrument) transformers which include polarity, transformer turn ratio, voltage ratio, insulation resistance, oil dielectric, oil acidity, sudden pressure, moisture test
• Must be able to test various transducers which include but not limited to voltage, watt, var, current, milli-volt
• Pack and move from ground, trucks, or platforms; lift, carry, and install various tools, parts, and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds on mountainous terrain, dams, canals, stairways, and ladders
• Use safety equipment such as eye, ear, foot, hand protection, as well as fall protection equipment
• Work around chemicals, fuels, solvents, oils, acids, paints, and some substances identified in Proposition 65.
• Maneuver frequently on stairs and ladders, over rock, gravel, concrete, metal grating, scaffolding and wood; which may include narrow and uneven surfaces; possibility of ice, oil, and/or water on surfaces
• Ability to work with other technicians on testing and installing equipment
• Recording and filing of test results
• Operate a company vehicle
• Must work safely at all times as defined by PG&E's safety standards and procedures
Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must possess a High School diploma, GED or equivalent work experience
  • Must possess a valid California Driver's License
  • Ability to work in all types of weather extremes
  • Ability to drive safely in all weather and road conditions
  • Ability to work extended hours, nights, weekends and holidays
  • Must be able to lift 100 pounds a minimum of one time a day
  • Must be able to wear company provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Previous Journeyman Electrical Technician experience with two or more years of experience in relay and control
  • 2 years experience testing protective relay equipment in a power station or high voltage substation
  • Certified journey level Electrician

Desired:
  • A four year degree in Electrical Engineering OR a two year Associates Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology and two years of experience in relay and control
  • Successful completion of apprentice electrical technician program
  • Demonstrated experience with electromechanical and microprocessor protective relay devices in substations or powerhouses
  • Proficient in understanding and deciphering electrical drawings and schematics
  • Demonstrated ability to complete detailed and intricate work requiring hand and eye dexterity, such as circuit boards and meter and relay movements
  • Ability to travel and transfer to new hydro facilities upon request at any time, within the PG&E service region

Pre-Employment Testing
PG&E Employees: You must have qualified on all prerequisite tests prior to submitting an application, and all secondary tests prior to interviewing. For more information on prerequisite and secondary exams, including study guides, please visit the Pre-employment testing program website.
  • Apprentice Electrical Technician Test - ETT Test
  • Physical Test Battery
  • Work Orientation Inventory-Physical/Technical Driving

Purpose, Virtues and Stands
Our Purpose explains "why" we exist:
  • Delivering for our hometowns
  • Serving our planet
  • Leading with love

Our Virtues capture "who" we need to be:
  • Trustworthy
  • Empathetic
  • Curious
  • Tenacious
  • Nimble
  • Owners

Our Stands are "what" we will achieve together:
  • Everyone and everything is always safe
  • Catastrophic wildfires shall stop
  • It is enjoyable to work with and for PG&E
  • Clean and resilient energy for all
  • Our work shall create prosperity for all customers and investors

More About Our Company
EEO
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that actively pursues and hires a workforce that reflects the hometowns we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability status, medical condition, protected veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other factor that is not related to the job.
Employee Privacy Notice The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) goes into effect on January 1, 2020. CCPA grants new and far-reaching privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information PG&E collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed through the following link: Employee Privacy Notice
PG&E will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with all state and local laws.

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