ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Performance Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lemurian Labs

Senior ML Performance Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

This is a high-impact role at the intersection of ML systems, GPU architecture, and performance engineering. You'll build the infrastructure that proves our compiler delivers real, measurable value ...

Apply Early

Anthropic

Performance Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Performance Engineer, you'll be responsible for identifying these problems, and then ... Have significant software engineering or machine learning experience, particularly at ...

RadixArk

Performance Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Strong systems engineering background, especially in performance-critical software * Experience with GPU systems, distributed systems, inference serving, ML runtimes, or high-performance computing

RadixArk

Performance Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Strong systems engineering background, especially in performance-critical software * Experience with GPU systems, distributed systems, inference serving, ML runtimes, or high-performance computing

Hermeus

Performance Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

In your role as a Performance Engineer, you will be responsible for analyzing, modeling, and ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. * Strong ...

Apply Early

Hermeus

Performance Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91K - $187K/yr

In your role as a Performance Engineer, you will be responsible for analyzing, modeling, and ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. * Strong ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPerformance Engineering JobsPerformance Engineering Jobs in California

Performance Engineering information

See California salary details

$10

$59

$96

How much do performance engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for performance engineering in California is $59.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.65 and $67.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a performance engineer do?

A performance engineer is responsible for analyzing, testing, and optimizing software and systems to ensure they meet performance requirements. They use tools like load testing and monitoring software to identify bottlenecks and improve system efficiency, often working closely with development and operations teams. Strong skills in scripting, performance testing tools, and understanding of system architecture are essential for this role.

How does a Performance Engineer typically collaborate with development and operations teams to resolve application bottlenecks?

Performance Engineers play a vital role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams. They work closely with developers to analyze application code and identify potential performance issues early in the development lifecycle. Additionally, they partner with operations teams to monitor system performance in production, interpret logs, and recommend infrastructure or configuration changes. This collaborative approach helps ensure that performance bottlenecks are identified and addressed quickly, leading to more reliable and scalable applications.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Performance engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in performance testing, and certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in large organizations, specialized expertise in tools like LoadRunner or JMeter, and the ability to optimize complex systems under demanding conditions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Performance engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and expertise in tools like load testing and monitoring, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Such high salaries are typically found in senior or specialized roles within large tech companies or consulting firms, often requiring certifications and a strong track record of delivering performance improvements.

What is performance engineering?

Performance engineering is a discipline in software and systems development focused on ensuring applications and systems meet required speed, scalability, and stability standards. It involves analyzing, designing, testing, and optimizing performance throughout the software development lifecycle. Performance engineers use specialized tools and methodologies to detect bottlenecks, simulate real-world loads, and recommend improvements. Their goal is to deliver reliable, high-performing products to end users.

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

To thrive as a Performance Engineer, you need strong analytical abilities, expertise in software performance testing, and a background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like JMeter, LoadRunner, APM solutions, and scripting languages is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as ISTQB Performance Testing. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you identify bottlenecks and collaborate with development teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring applications meet performance standards and deliver a seamless user experience.

What is the difference between Performance Engineering vs Performance Testing?

AspectPerformance EngineeringPerformance Testing
FocusDesigning, developing, and implementing strategies to ensure system performance throughout the development lifecycleExecuting tests to measure system performance under specific conditions
ActivitiesPerformance planning, monitoring, optimization, and capacity planningLoad testing, stress testing, and benchmarking
Skills & CertificationsPerformance testing tools, scripting, monitoring, performance analysisPerformance testing tools, scripting, test execution
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with developers, architects, and operations teamsPrimarily testing teams and QA departments

Performance Engineering involves proactive strategies to optimize system performance throughout development, while Performance Testing focuses on evaluating system performance through specific tests. Both roles require similar skills but differ in scope and objectives, with Performance Engineering being more comprehensive and ongoing.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Performance engineering roles at senior levels, such as Principal Performance Engineer or Director of Performance Engineering, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large tech companies or financial institutions. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills in systems optimization, and often involve leadership responsibilities and specialized certifications. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.
What are the most commonly searched types of Performance Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Performance Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Performance Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Performance Engineering job openings:
Performance Engineering jobs near you

performance Engineer/tester

Omega Solutions Imc

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Omega solutions
Job Description
Hello ,
This is Ashok from Omega solutions. This is regarding an immediate opening for Performance Engineer. please find the below description and let me know your interest.
Job details:
Position: Performance Engineer III
Location: San Francisco, CA
Duration: 05+ Months
Description :
Designs, configures and runs performance tests, collects performance data, profiles the code, designs architecture and code changes to improve performance, implements code changes or works with other developers to implement changes as appropriate.
Seasoned Professional 5+ years experience.
contact: ashok(at)omegasolutioninc.com/408-844-3032
Qualifications
Additional Information
If you are interested in this opportunity, please email me your most update resume: I look forward to connecting with you on this and/or other opportunities. I am always looking to network, so if you are in the market or just interested in hearing about future opportunities, please send me a current resume along with your hourly compensation requirements.

Apply