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Principal Verification Engineer Jobs in California

Marvell

Principal Verification Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$159K/yr

Strong verification skills, understanding of methodology (object oriented programming, white-box/black-box, directed/random testing, coverage, gate-level simulations, data structure). Must have ...

Zoomcar

Principal Verification Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$179 - $219/hr

Conduct thorough code reviews of verification code, provide constructive feedback, and champion engineering best practices across the team. * Mentor and guide junior and mid-level engineers through ...

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All JobsPrincipal Verification Engineer JobsPrincipal Verification Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Verification Engineer information

See California salary details

$73K

$145.3K

$209.7K

How much do principal verification engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal verification engineer in California is $145,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,900.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal verification engineer?

A Principal Verification Engineer needs deep expertise in digital design, verification methodologies (such as UVM or SystemVerilog), and a degree in electrical or computer engineering. Mastery of simulation tools (like ModelSim or VCS), scripting languages (Perl, Python), and familiarity with hardware description languages are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help in leading teams and collaborating across engineering functions. These competencies ensure rigorous product validation, efficient project execution, and high-quality semiconductor or hardware releases.

What is a principal verification engineer?

A Principal Verification Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for leading the verification process of complex hardware or software systems, ensuring that designs meet all specifications and functional requirements. They develop and implement verification strategies, create test plans, and oversee the execution of simulation and validation activities. Principal Verification Engineers often mentor junior engineers, collaborate with design and architecture teams, and play a key role in identifying and resolving critical design issues. Their work is essential for delivering high-quality, reliable products in industries such as semiconductor, electronics, and automotive. This role typically requires extensive experience in verification methodologies and strong problem-solving skills.

What are some common challenges faced by a principal verification engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Principal Verification Engineers often navigate complex verification environments, tight project timelines, and coordination across multiple teams. A key challenge is ensuring comprehensive test coverage while managing evolving design specifications. Effective communication with design and firmware teams, proactive identification of verification gaps, and leveraging advanced verification methodologies (such as constrained-random testing and formal verification) can help address these challenges. Additionally, mentoring junior engineers and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing are vital for team success.

What is the difference between Principal Verification Engineer vs Verification Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Verification EngineerVerification Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; extensive experience in verification methodologiesUsually holds a Bachelor's or Master's in a relevant engineering discipline; less extensive experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeads verification teams, designs verification strategies, and oversees complex projectsPerforms verification tasks, runs tests, and documents results under supervision
Industry UsageCommonly found in semiconductor, electronics, and hardware industriesWidely used across similar industries for testing and validation roles

The Principal Verification Engineer typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and oversees verification processes, while Verification Engineers focus on executing tests and validating designs. Both roles are essential in ensuring product quality but differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Verification Engineer jobs in California? For Principal Verification Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Verification Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Verification Engineer jobs in California are:
Principal Verification Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Verification Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,292 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Principal Verification Engineer (San Jose)

OSI Engineering

San Jose, CA • On-site

$170K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Principal Verification Engineer – OSI Engineering

A leading chip and silicon IP provider is seeking a talented Principal Verification Engineer to join its Memory Interconnect Design team. In this full‑time hybrid role you will work alongside world‑class engineers to develop advanced technologies that make data faster and more secure.

As a key technical leader, you will define and execute verification strategies across multiple product lines and global sites, ensuring robust, production‑ready silicon.

Responsibilities
  • Technical lead for full‑chip and block‑level verification
  • Define verification plans in coordination with architects, logic, and mixed‑signal designers
  • Implement testbenches, monitors, and scoreboards using UVM methodology
  • Achieve functional and code coverage goals to ensure quality and completeness
  • Support silicon bring‑up, lab testing, and debug in partnership with the system team
  • Contribute to the development of verification flows, tools, and methodology
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers within the team
Requirements
  • Proficient in SystemVerilog or Verilog with significant UVM experience
  • Strong experience with standard ASIC verification flow/software tools
  • Simulation tools: Synopsys VCS, Cadence Xcelium
  • Coverage & Analysis: Cadence IMC (Incisive Metrics Center)
  • Experience scripting in Linux/Unix environments
  • Desirable: verification of DDR memory interfaces
  • Desirable: experience with analog/mixed‑signal products
  • Desirable: SVA (System/Verilog Assertions)
  • Desirable: Jenkins (CI/CD integration)
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and drive complex technical solutions
  • Strong commitment to work in cross‑functional and globally dispersed teams
  • MS in EE with 10+ years, OR PhD in EE with 7+ years of verification experience
Location

San Jose, CA; Agoura Hills, CA; Morrisville, NC; Johns Creek, GA (hybrid)

Employment Type

Full‑time

Salary Range

$170,000 – $196,000 (DOE)

Additional Information

No 3rd party agencies or C2C

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