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Senior Optimization Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Advantest

Applied AI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Senior ML engineer with real reinforcement learning or combinatorial optimization experience. * Optimization engineer from robotics, scheduling, logistics, CAD/CAM, GIS, EDA, or spatial planning.

Advantest

Applied AI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Senior ML engineer with real reinforcement learning or combinatorial optimization experience. * Optimization engineer from robotics, scheduling, logistics, CAD/CAM, GIS, EDA, or spatial planning.

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All JobsOptimization Engineer JobsSenior Optimization Engineer JobsSenior Optimization Engineer Jobs in California

Senior Optimization Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$124.9K

$181.1K

How much do senior optimization engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optimization engineer in California is $124,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior optimization engineer?

A Senior Optimization Engineer is a highly experienced professional who specializes in improving the efficiency and performance of systems, processes, or products. They use advanced analytical, mathematical, and engineering techniques to identify inefficiencies and develop solutions that maximize output while minimizing costs or resource usage. Senior Optimization Engineers often work in industries such as manufacturing, software, logistics, and energy. Their responsibilities may include data analysis, algorithm development, simulation modeling, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement improvements. This role typically requires a strong background in engineering, mathematics, and optimization methods, as well as several years of relevant experience.

How does a senior optimization engineer collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement solutions?

Senior Optimization Engineers often work closely with data scientists, software developers, and business analysts to design and implement process improvements. They play a key role in translating complex mathematical models into practical solutions that can be integrated into existing systems. Regular communication and collaboration are essential, as these engineers must ensure that proposed optimizations align with business goals and technical constraints. Effective teamwork and stakeholder engagement are crucial for successfully moving projects from concept to execution.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a senior optimization engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Optimization Engineer, you need expertise in mathematical modeling, data analysis, and optimization algorithms, typically supported by a degree in engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, MATLAB, or C++), optimization software (like Gurobi or CPLEX), and familiarity with simulation tools are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and project management skills help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to developing efficient solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving impactful process improvements.

What is the difference between Senior Optimization Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectSenior Optimization EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Mathematics, or related field; experience in optimization algorithmsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Statistics, or related field; proficiency in data analysis
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, product development, operationsData analysis teams, research, business intelligence
Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, tech companies focusing on process optimizationTech, finance, healthcare, focusing on data-driven insights

While both roles require strong analytical skills and technical expertise, Senior Optimization Engineers focus on improving processes and systems through optimization techniques, whereas Data Scientists analyze data to generate insights and support decision-making. The roles often collaborate but serve different core functions within organizations.

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Optimization Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Optimization Engineer job openings:
Senior Optimization Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Optimization Engineer job openings in California as of August 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 $124,900 per year, or $60 per hour.

Director of Optimization Engineering

Adapture Renewables

Oakland, CA • On-site, Remote

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Opportunity

Adapture Renewables, Inc. is on a mission to be a leader in this new era of sustainable energy. Drawing upon an extensive knowledge base, we develop, finance, engineer, build, own, and operate high quality utility-scale photovoltaic projects and battery energy storage projects. Our Engineering team is looking for a talented Director of Optimization Engineering to help support the efforts of our fast-growing company. Adapture Renewables is owned by KIRKBI - the private holding and investment company of the Kirk Kristiansen family founded to build a sustainable future for the LEGO brand through generations.

Overview

This position will work in our Engineering team and report to the Sr. Director of Engineering. The Director of Optimization Engineering owns the technical strategy for optimizing our hybrid and collocated utility-scale solar and battery energy storage (BESS) systems - driving energy production, capture, storage efficiency, and load-matching across Adapture Renewable's multi-GW development pipeline. This is a builder's seat: the role sets the optimization vision, defines success criteria, and grows a team of engineers to execute against it, partnering closely with Development, Interconnection & Transmission, Asset Management, and Power Marketing. The candidate will ideally be based in the San Francisco Bay Area (hybrid); remote considered for exceptional candidates.

Core Responsibilities

  • Own the engineering roadmap for hybrid solar-plus-storage optimization - from system sizing and configuration through dispatch strategy - and define the KPIs and initiatives that connect design choices to energy yield and financial return.
  • Govern PV performance modeling standards (PVSyst), including P50/P90 production estimates, degradation profiles, and loss/availability frameworks.
  • Model and optimize combined PV and BESS output to serve large-load customers such as data centers, through both front-of-meter and co-located behind-the-meter designs.
  • Set the engineering basis for battery dispatch and energy-arbitrage strategy using linear-programming methods, in coordination with Power Marketing.
  • Establish standards for solar/BESS sizing, EMS configuration, DC/AC ratios, ground coverage ratios, state-of-charge limits, and round-trip efficiency.
  • Ensure designs meet utility and interconnection requirements and SCADA/EMS protocols; partner with Interconnection & Transmission and IT on the underlying data path.
  • Direct root-cause analysis of operating-fleet underperformance (soiling, availability, equipment faults, clipping, degradation, capacity fade) and feed findings back into design and procurement.
  • Hire, develop, and lead the optimization engineering team, including the Manager of Optimization Engineering.
  • Deliver design and performance recommendations to Engineering leadership and, as needed, to ownership.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, energy, or systems engineering, or an equivalent quantitative discipline; advanced degree a plus.
  • 8+ years in renewable energy, with hands-on experience designing and optimizing utility-scale solar and demonstrated BESS experience (sizing, dispatch optimization, degradation, or performance modeling).
  • 3+ years leading and developing technical teams, with a track record of setting vision and delivering results.
  • Deep fluency in PV performance modeling (PVSyst or equivalent), including P50/P90 yield estimation and loss/availability analysis.
  • Strong PV and BESS electrical engineering foundation: inverters and DC/AC conversion, EMS configuration, state-of-charge limits, and round-trip efficiency.
  • Working command of dispatch/arbitrage optimization (linear programming or comparable methods) and the data analytics behind battery control strategies.
  • Proven ability to translate models and data into prioritized, economically grounded recommendations for engineers, executives, and owners.
  • Preferred: Python (SciPy or similar solvers), MATLAB, and SQL; SCADA/EMS and OT data architecture experience; familiarity with BESS warranty and capacity-guarantee structures; working knowledge of interconnection and market context (PPA structures, curtailment, ancillary services); PE license a plus.
  • Ability to travel occasionally to project sites and the Bay Area office.

Benefits Package

  • 401(k) plan with company matching contribution
  • Competitive health, vision, and dental benefits
  • Attractive personal time off and company holiday package
  • Work-from-home policy
  • Salary commensurate with experience

Note

Qualified candidates only. No search firms. Adapture Renewables, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity.

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