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Program Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Program Manager

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K/yr

Our client, a leader in consumer technology innovation, is seeking a Product Design Engineering Program Manager (PD EPM) to lead the technical execution of cutting-edge hardware development programs.

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Advanced Systems product line. The Chief Engineer reports to the ...

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Emerging Programs product line. The Chief Engineer reports to ...

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Advanced Systems product line. The Chief Engineer reports to the ...

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Emerging Programs product line. The Chief Engineer reports to ...

NPI Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$246K - $333K/yr

... program management, or product operations, with at least 3 years in an NPI. * Understanding of modern software development practices (e.g., Agile, CI/CD, DevOps). * Understanding of hardware ...

Senior Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

The Senior Program Manager, alongside the Chief Program Engineer, plans and organizes all engineering functions specific to the program, coordinates client interaction between the program team and ...

Senior Program Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

The Senior Program Manager, alongside the Chief Program Engineer, plans and organizes all engineering functions specific to the program, coordinates client interaction between the program team and ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Developer information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$59.2K

$97.2K

How much do program developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for program developer in California is $59,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,900.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a program developer do?

A program developer designs, writes, tests, and maintains software applications or systems. They use programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ and often collaborate with teams to meet project requirements and deadlines.

Can I make 100k as a software developer?

Software developers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Salaries vary based on factors such as location, education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What Is a Program Developer?

A program developer creates or enhances software to meet company needs. As a program developer, you make work on applications for different departments, such as human resources, sales, or data processing. Your job duties include designing software solutions that make the company procedures more efficient, programming the computer language, and troubleshooting the code to resolve bugs and errors. Program developers may work independently or on a team of software designers.

What are some common challenges faced by Program Developers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Program Developers often work closely with designers, product managers, and quality assurance teams. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these diverse groups, as each may have different priorities and technical backgrounds. Balancing feature requests with technical feasibility and project deadlines can also be demanding. Successful Program Developers proactively seek feedback, clarify requirements, and use collaborative tools to keep everyone aligned, which helps minimize misunderstandings and bottlenecks.

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

To thrive as a Program Developer, you need strong programming skills, knowledge of software development methodologies, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like version control systems (e.g., Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and frameworks relevant to the target platform is essential. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top developers apart. These competencies enable the creation of robust, maintainable software solutions and efficient collaboration within development teams.

What is the difference between Program Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectProgram DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in computer science or related fieldUsually requires a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or software engineering
Work EnvironmentOften works on specific projects, coding, and debuggingDesigns, develops, tests, and maintains software systems
Industry UsageCommon in software development firms, tech companies, and IT departmentsWidely used across tech, finance, healthcare, and other industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for coding roles and project workCompared for system design and software architecture roles

While both Program Developers and Software Engineers work in software creation, Program Developers typically focus on coding and implementing specific programs, whereas Software Engineers are involved in designing and architecting entire software systems. The roles often overlap, but Software Engineers usually have broader responsibilities in system design and integration.

What are Program Developers?

Program Developers are professionals who design, plan, and implement new software programs or systems. They analyze user needs, write code, test applications, and work collaboratively with other team members like designers and project managers. In addition to technical skills, Program Developers often manage project timelines and ensure that software solutions meet both user and business requirements. Their work is crucial in creating functional, efficient, and user-friendly software products.

Is AI replacing coders?

Program developers use AI tools to automate certain coding tasks, but AI currently cannot fully replace human coders due to the need for creativity, problem-solving, and understanding complex requirements. AI serves as a complement to coding skills, enhancing productivity rather than replacing the role entirely.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like AI, machine learning, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or specialized expertise in the industry.
What are popular job titles related to Program Developer jobs in California? For Program Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Program Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Program Developer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Program Developer jobs in CA? For Program Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Program Developer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,194 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
11 - Sr Staff Engineer, Program/Project Mgmt 1

11 - Sr Staff Engineer, Program/Project Mgmt 1

Celestica

San Jose, CA • On-site

$141K - $221K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Celestica rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 144 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Req ID: 138304
Region: Americas
Country: USA
State/Province: California
City: San Jose
Summary
The Staff Engineer, Program/Project Management is accountable for planning and directing design engineers and other technical engineers working on specific projects. They manage the development, implementation, and evaluation of complex designs. They are responsible for managing large projects with complex scope, multiple streams of work and inter-dependencies.
Detailed Description
Performs tasks such as, but not limited to, the following:
  • Manage strategic visibility programs (multiple projects per program) of high complexity (technology, organizationally). Lead cross-functional, global core team(s), kick off programs, establish schedules and drive meetings.
  • Present, communicate, and influence LOB/segment business leaders and customers
  • Lead/develop function level or moderately complex process initiatives or business strategy.
  • Demonstrate ability to grow cross functional team members by identifying develop opportunities.
  • Lead the deployment of strategic programs and coordinate site-wide deployment efforts.
  • May be a recognized expert (go to person) in one or more skills associated with PM role.
  • Present and communicate status to the business leaders and customers. Review and interpret customer specifications and provides customer feedback
  • Coordinate site-wide deployment efforts.
  • Implement change as directed in the product lifecycle process and recommend process improvements
  • Plan the overall program and monitor the progress. Drive the creation, review, approval and update of the Program Plan/WBS including resources.
  • Daily program management throughout the program life
  • Drive the program core team to meet or exceed program objectives (Cost, Quality, Schedule, Features, Fulfillment/Continuity of Supply, Solution delivery across products & service offerings, Customer Specific Needs)
  • Define the program governance (controls)
  • Manage the program's budget. Forecast actuals against plan/quote for income/revenue, cost/labour & expense
  • Manage risks and issues and taking corrective measurements
  • Coordinate the projects and their interdependencies. Manage and utilizing resources across projects
  • Align the deliverables (outputs) to the program's "outcome" with the aid of the business change manager
  • Manage the main program documentation, such as the Program Initiation document

Knowledge/Skills/Competencies
Refer to technical skills below
Physical Demands
  • Duties of this position are performed in a normal office environment.
  • Duties may require extended periods of sitting and sustained visual concentration on a computer monitor or on numbers and other detailed data.
  • Repetitive manual movements (e.g., data entry, using a computer mouse, using a calculator, etc.) are frequently required.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

Salary
Salary Range annually- $141,143- $221,216
The stated range includes Base Salary and target Short-Term Incentive (STI) compensation only. A comprehensive benefits package is offered in addition to this range.
The range described in this posting is an estimate by the Company, and may change based on several factors, including but not limited to a change in the duties covered by the job posting, or the credentials, experience or geographic jurisdiction of the successful candidate.
Typical Experience
  • 7 to 10 years.

Typical Education
Bachelor degree or consideration of an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Educational Requirements may vary by Geography
Notes
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities of the position. Employees are held accountable for all duties of the job. Job duties and the % of time identified for any function are subject to change at any time.
Celestica is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
This policy applies to hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits, job training, classification, referral and other aspects of employment and also states that retaliation against a person who files a charge of discrimination, participates in a discrimination proceeding, or otherwise opposes an unlawful employment practice will not be tolerated. All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Celestica is an E-Verify employer.
COMPANY OVERVIEW:
Celestica, Inc. (NYSE: CLS; TSX: CLS) is a technology leader dedicated to driving customer success and market advancements. With deep expertise in design, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and platform solutions, Celestica enables critical data center infrastructure for AI, cloud, and hybrid cloud and advances technologies in high-growth markets. With a talented team and a strategic global network, Celestica helps its customers achieve competitive advantages.
Today, Celestica delivers innovative supply chain solutions globally to customers in strategic two operating and reporting segments: Advanced Technology Solutions (ATS) and Connectivity and Cloud Solutions (CC):
ATS: This segment serves customers in complex, regulated and high-reliability markets such as Industrial & Smart Energy, Aerospace & Defense, Semiconductor Capital Equipment, and HealthTech. It is engineering led, with deep expertise in design, manufacturing and lifecycle solutions.
CCS: This segment focuses on high-performance technology solutions and services for the data center, serving hyperscalers, digital native customers and enterprises. Celestica's Platform Solutions offering provides innovative and customizable computing, storage and networking solutions enabling AI-driven growth.
Built on a legacy of trust and performance, Celestica has earned its reputation by delivering results in complex and fast-changing markets. Celestica exceeds customer expectations by identifying trends and staying ahead of the curve. Backed by comprehensive capabilities and a global network across North America, Europe and Asia, Celestica helps customers gain competitive advantage with the quality, flexibility and resiliency they need to respond quickly to shifts in demand. Guided by a bold vision to accelerate market advancements, Celestica delivers innovative solutions and technologies that turn complexity into opportunity. Anchored in teamwork and commitment, Celestica strives to be the most trusted partner to its customers and colleagues worldwide.
Celestica would like to thank all applicants, however, only qualified applicants will be contacted.
Celestica does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies or fee based recruitment services.

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