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Optimization Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Efficient Computer

Optimization Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

Efficient's Optimization Engineers optimize and benchmark applications, libraries, and kernels for the world's most energy-efficient programmable processor (the "Fabric"). In this role, you will take ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

Senior Optimization Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Optimization Engineer, you will work at the intersection of advanced mathematics, software engineering, and power systems. You'll design and implement optimization models that help ...

Hitachi

Senior Optimization Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · Remote

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Optimization Engineer, you will work at the intersection of advanced mathematics, software engineering, and power systems. You'll design and implement optimization models that help ...

Etched

Power Optimization Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Work closely with Architects, Performance Engineers, Software Engineers, ASIC Design Engineers, and Physical Design teams to implement design for optimal power using advanced power management ...

Etched

Power Optimization Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Work closely with Architects, Performance Engineers, Software Engineers, ASIC Design Engineers, and Physical Design teams to implement design for optimal power using advanced power management ...

Apple

Sr. ML Optimization Engineer, iCloud

Culver City, CA · On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

As a Sr. ML Optimization Engineer, you will work at the intersection of systems engineering, infrastructure strategy, applied analytics, machine learning, and large-scale optimization. You will have ...

Etched

Power Optimization Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Work closely with Architects, Performance Engineers, Software Engineers, ASIC Design Engineers, and Physical Design teams to implement design for optimal power using advanced power management ...

Mytra

Senior Modeling & Optimization Engineer

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$125K - $172K/yr

The Senior Modeling & Optimization Engineer will analyze operational data and build simulation models to validate warehouse designs, ultimately supporting customer engagements and influencing product ...

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Optimization Engineer information

See California salary details

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How much do optimization engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optimization engineer in California is $58.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.69 and $72.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optimization Engineer vs Data Analyst?

AspectOptimization EngineerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Mathematics, or related field; often certifications in optimization or data analysisBachelor's in Statistics, Mathematics, or related field; certifications in data analysis tools
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, manufacturing, logistics, or software developmentBusiness, finance, marketing, or healthcare sectors
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, tech, logistics, supply chainFinance, marketing, healthcare, consulting

Optimization Engineers focus on improving processes and systems through mathematical modeling and algorithms, often working in technical environments. Data Analysts interpret data to support business decisions, typically working with data visualization and reporting tools. While both roles analyze data, Optimization Engineers emphasize process optimization, whereas Data Analysts focus on insights and reporting.

What are Optimization Engineers?

Optimization Engineers are professionals who analyze, design, and implement solutions to improve the efficiency, performance, and cost-effectiveness of systems, processes, or products. They use mathematical models, data analysis, and simulation tools to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to achieve optimal results. These engineers work across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, energy, and logistics, to help organizations maximize output while minimizing resources and waste.

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

To thrive as an Optimization Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, data analysis, and engineering principles, often supported by a degree in engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with optimization software (such as Gurobi, CPLEX, or MATLAB), programming languages like Python, and data modeling tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing efficient solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving continuous improvement in complex systems.

What does an optimization engineer do?

An optimization engineer analyzes and improves processes, systems, or algorithms to increase efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance performance. They often use mathematical modeling, data analysis, and tools like MATLAB or Python to develop solutions and may work in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or software development.

What engineers make 200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and data engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Compensation can vary based on industry, location, and company size, with roles involving specialized expertise, leadership, or management responsibilities typically commanding higher salaries.

How does an Optimization Engineer typically collaborate with other departments to implement solutions?

Optimization Engineers often work closely with cross-functional teams such as production, operations, and data analysis. They collaborate by gathering input on current processes, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing data-driven improvements. Regular meetings and clear communication are crucial to ensure that proposed optimizations are practical and align with business goals. By involving stakeholders from various departments, Optimization Engineers help facilitate smoother implementation and ensure that solutions are sustainable and well-integrated.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large technology companies. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What Is Optimization Engineering?

The job duties of an optimization engineer focus on taking an existing design and improving making it stronger, fast, more efficient, or more durable. Career qualifications for an optimization engineer include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering and years of field experience through internships or similar positions. Strong analytical and research skills are important for this job, as well as a strong background in advanced mathematics.

How much do optimization engineers make?

Optimization engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis, programming, and modeling can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000.
More about Optimization Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optimization Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Optimization Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Optimization Engineer jobs in California? For Optimization Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optimization Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optimization Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Optimization Engineer jobs in CA? For Optimization Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optimization Engineer jobs near you

Optimization Engineer

Efficient Computer

San Jose, CA • On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Efficient is developing the world's most energy-efficient general-purpose computer processor. Efficient's patented technology uses 100x less energy than state of the art commercially available ultra-low-power processors and is programmable using standard high-level programming languages and AI/ML frameworks. This level of efficiency makes perpetual, pervasive intelligence possible: run AI/ML continuously on a AA battery for 5-10 years. Our platform's unprecedented level of efficiency enables IoT devices to intelligently capture and curate first-party data to drive the next major computing revolution
About the Role
We are seeking Software Optimization Engineers to join our growing team. Efficient's Optimization Engineers optimize and benchmark applications, libraries, and kernels for the world's most energy-efficient programmable processor (the "Fabric"). In this role, you will take ownership of complex, performance-critical, kernel code while working closely with Efficient's compiler and embedded teams contributing feedback on compiler performance and kernel benchmarks on 3rd-party devices. In other words, you will push the performance limit of compute on our platform.
This position is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge hardware/software co-design, while making an immediate impact in building the next generation of optimized libraries and applications used by our customers.
Required Qualifications & Experience
  • Hands-on software development experience working closely with hardware, including exposure to at least one RISC, DSP or GPU platform.
  • A passion for analyzing and maximizing software performance on an unique dataflow architecture.
  • A collaborative spirit, with the ability to work with and influence multiple engineering teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to write, debug, and maintain low-level systems-level code written in C/C++.
  • Actively uses AI tools to generate, optimize, and debug code.
  • Excellent written, verbal, analytical and technical communication skills with the ability to clearly document complex systems.
  • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
Desired Qualifications & Experience
  • Some experience with CUDA, HIP and/or other parallel programming models.
  • Some exposure to low-level programming interfaces, e.g. PTX, LLVM IR and/or MLIR.
  • Some domain expertise in one or more of the following areas: Linear Algebra, ML, Image Processing, Video Processing, Signal Processing, Audio Processing, SDR, realtime programming, or Robotics.
  • Some background in performance profiling, benchmark design, or comparative hardware analysis.

We offer a competitive salary for this role, generally ranging from $130,000 to $200,000, along with meaningful equity and comprehensive benefits. The final compensation package will be based on your experience and location, with some flexibility to ensure we align with the right candidate.
Why Join Efficient?
Efficient offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including 401K match, company-paid benefits, equity program, paid parental leave, and flexibility. We are committed to personal and professional development and strive to grow together as people and as a company.

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