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Semiconductor Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GPU Driver Developer

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

GPU Standards Development Lead

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175 - $250/hr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

GPU Driver Lead

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

GPU Driver Lead

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

GPU Driver Lead Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to ...

GPU Driver Developer

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Bolt Graphics GPU Driver Developer Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first ...

GPU Compiler Developer

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175 - $220/hr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

... semiconductor startup headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, building energy-efficient processors for edge compute, embedded AI, and high-performance applications. Our team designs, tapes out, and brings ...

GPU Standards Development Lead

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

RTL Design Tech Lead (ASIC/SoC)

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$250K - $350K/yr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems.

Showing results 41-60

Semiconductor Startup information

See California salary details

$23K

$87.4K

$173.8K

How much do semiconductor startup jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for semiconductor startup in California is $87,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,492.00 and $118,976.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a semiconductor startup?

A Semiconductor Startup job involves working in a new or early-stage company focused on semiconductor technology, such as chip design, fabrication, or advanced materials. Employees often wear multiple hats, contributing to areas like research, development, manufacturing, and business strategy. These roles require strong technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and adaptability to a fast-paced, high-risk environment. Working in a semiconductor startup provides opportunities for innovation and rapid career growth but may come with uncertainties typical of startups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a semiconductor startup, and why are they important?

To thrive in a semiconductor startup, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and experience with chip design and fabrication processes. Familiarity with EDA tools (like Cadence, Synopsys), cleanroom procedures, and industry standards is typically required, along with any relevant certifications. Agile problem-solving, resilience, and collaborative communication are valuable soft skills in this dynamic environment. These qualities are critical for navigating rapid technical iteration, scaling innovation, and achieving business milestones in a highly competitive industry.

What are typical challenges faced when working at a semiconductor startup, and how can I best prepare for them?

At a semiconductor startup, you may encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, rapidly evolving technical requirements, and limited resources compared to larger companies. Team members often wear multiple hats, requiring flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills quickly. To thrive, it's helpful to stay adaptable, prioritize clear communication with your team, and embrace a proactive approach to solving problems. This fast-paced, innovative atmosphere can accelerate your professional growth and provide deep exposure to all stages of semiconductor product development.

What job categories do people searching Semiconductor Startup jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Semiconductor Startup jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Semiconductor Startup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Semiconductor Startup job openings:

Infographic showing various Semiconductor Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,373 per year, or $42 per hour.

GPU Driver Developer

Bolt Graphics

Sunnyvale, CA โ€ข On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems. We are energized by our mission to reduce the barrier of entry for content creation and consumption. Our goal is to enable everyone to easily create, simulate and consume immersive experiences as vividly as they can imagine them.
Our Values
  • Be Fearless: Unmute yourself. Test boundaries and get proven right.
  • Remain Adaptable: Stay comfortable in a continuously changing world. If you're wrong, concede and move on.
  • Educate Your Ego: Selflessly collaborate towards our shared purpose.

About the role:
We're looking for an experienced GPU Driver Developer. You will focus the design, development, implementation, and toolchain of a high-performance host-side driver stack and API for our proprietary RISC-V GPU architecture.
We are looking to fill a range of Junior to Senior roles.
What you'll do:
  • Focus on the design of a low-level path-tracing, graphics, and compute API for our proprietary GPU
  • Play a key role in the development of User & Kernel Mode Drivers that can be executed on a host CPU running Windows or Linux, or embedded on a RISC-V CPU running Linux
  • Coordinate with the GPU Compiler team to communicate with the GPU through PCIe or on-board shared memory
  • Coordinate with the GPU Standards Development team to implement functionality required by industry standard APIs that overlay our proprietary GPU driver
  • Develop a toolchain for development, optimization, and debugging

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's/Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
  • Industry experience with high-performance graphics and compute drivers
  • Experience developing drivers for Windows and Linux
  • Deep understanding of User Mode and Kernel Mode driver development
  • Good understanding of modern GPU APIs such as Vulkan, Metal, DirectX, CUDA, and SYCL
  • Strong knowledge of CPU architecture and microarchitecture
  • Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming
  • Experience with code analysis, IR (LLVM, MLIR, ISPC), and LLVM and GCC internals
  • Demonstrated ability to ship high-quality production software

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Understanding and experience with RISC-V and vector processors
  • Experience with PCIe bus communications
  • Experience co-designing hardware architectures
  • Understanding of path and ray tracing

Compensation Range: $175,000-$250,000 per year (California). This range represents the anticipated base pay for this role; the final offer may vary based on qualifications, experience, and location.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision - 100% covered premiums
  • Equity - Stock Options
  • 401(k) match
  • WFH Equipment Reimbursement
  • Generous Paid Time Off

Bolt is committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment in which we recognize and value each other's differences as well as fostering a culture that promotes its core values: Professionalism, Integrity, and Respect. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran.