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Senior Computer Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior CAD Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $169K/yr

Senior CAD Engineer As an Astranis Senior CAD Engineer you will be a leader in the design and configuration of our spacecraft and the documentation and processes used to transfer from design to ...

Senior CAD Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Senior CAD Engineer As an Astranis Senior CAD Engineer you will be a leader in the design and configuration of our spacecraft and the documentation and processes used to transfer from design to ...

Job #217879 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Senior CAD Design Engineer for a contract opportunity in Long Beach, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * 5+ years of relevant CAD/Design ...

Senior Computer Vision/AI Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$123K - $168K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Computer Vision/AI Engineer to develop and deploy next-generation AI systems that power real-time decision-making. The role involves leading the full lifecycle of computer ...

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Senior Computer Programmer information

See California salary details

$13

$51

$70

How much do senior computer programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior computer programmer in California is $51.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.41 and $61.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Computer Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Computer Programmer, you need advanced proficiency in programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), strong problem-solving abilities, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise in software development tools, version control systems (like Git), and familiarity with industry-standard frameworks is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate. Exceptional communication, leadership, and teamwork skills help you manage projects and mentor junior developers. These skills ensure you can deliver robust software solutions efficiently, drive technical innovation, and contribute effectively to team and organizational goals.

What are some typical challenges Senior Computer Programmers face when leading project development?

Senior Computer Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, balancing hands-on coding with mentoring junior developers, and ensuring that projects meet both technical and business requirements. They are frequently responsible for architectural decisions, code reviews, and integrating new technologies, which requires staying current with industry trends. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams—including product managers, designers, and QA—are essential to delivering successful software solutions.

What are Senior Computer Programmers?

Senior Computer Programmers are experienced professionals who design, write, test, and maintain complex computer software and applications. They often lead programming teams, mentor junior developers, and contribute to architectural decisions. Their responsibilities include reviewing code for efficiency and security, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that software meets both technical and business requirements. Typically, they have several years of experience in software development and are proficient in multiple programming languages.

What is the difference between Senior Computer Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectSenior Computer ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in programmingBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; coding experience
Work EnvironmentDevelops, tests, and maintains code; often in teamsDesigns and builds software applications; collaborates with stakeholders
Industry UsageCommon in tech, finance, healthcare sectorsWidespread across industries for application development
Search/Comparison IntentFocuses on programming expertise and experienceBroader software development responsibilities

While both roles involve coding and technical skills, a Senior Computer Programmer primarily focuses on writing, testing, and maintaining code, often with specialized programming expertise. A Software Developer typically has a broader role, including designing software solutions and collaborating with teams. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus areas differ slightly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Computer Programmer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Computer Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Computer Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Computer Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Computer Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Computer Programmer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,312 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Senior CAD Engineer

Senior CAD Engineer

Astranis

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $169K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Senior CAD Engineer

As an Astranis Senior CAD Engineer you will be a leader in the design and configuration of our spacecraft and the documentation and processes used to transfer from design to production.  You will develop, maintain and teach others about design methods and best practices, perform spacecraft-level design tasks such as waveguide routing and panel configuration, and manage spacecraft bills of material and change orders in conjunction with the vehicle engineering, production and supply chain teams.  You must have strong CAD design experience in complex systems.  Experience with spacecraft is a benefit but is not required.

Role

  • Manage configuration of top-level spacecraft assemblies in CAD and create and maintain bills of material for assemblies to transfer to production
  • Develop and document best practices for design
  • Teach and mentor others in design and drawing best practices
  • Manage the programs and procedures that govern how CAD interacts with PLM.
  • Model and draw components and systems, especially system-wide assemblies such as waveguide routes, propulsion systems and harnessing.
  • Check engineering drawings for components and systems
  • Assist in recruiting, interviewing and hiring additional teammates to our rapidly-growing team

Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience in a design role and expertise in mechanical CAD
  • Experience with design and production of complex assemblies
  • Robust knowledge of SolidWorks
  • Working knowledge and experience in PDM Administration
  • Mastery of GD+T and engineering drawings
  • A passion for hardware development, including working in a fast-paced environment including hands-on development

Bonus

  • Expertise of SolidWorks
  • Experience in design of spaceflight components and/or vacuum compatible systems
  • Experience designing and routing harnesses, waveguides and/or pipes
  • Experience with surface modeling
  • Experience with Arena