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Sensor Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Role Summary In this role, the Sensor Design Engineer will own sensor system design, bring-up, and validation for the current and next generation of Rivian electric vehicles. This would be a highly ...

Role Summary In this role, the Sensor Design Engineer will own sensor system design, bring-up, and validation for the current and next generation of Rivian electric vehicles. This would be a highly ...

Develop sensor architectures and detailed designs that meet customer and product requirements. * Perform detailed circuit analysis, design, simulation, layout, and verification of mixed-signal ...

Provides technical leadership for next-generation CGM sensor design, research, and development. * Leads ideation, feasibility, and development of new sensor technologies that may enable multi-analyte ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Mateo, CA

$86K - $117K/yr

Experience with actuator and sensor design for high performance haptic devices * Experience working with high-speed control systems, including low-level firmware

Apple is looking for a world class module design engineer to lead the design, development and ... Description This individual will serve as a focal point in managing new display and light sensor ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sensor Design information

See California salary details

$77.5K

$127.5K

$188K

How much do sensor design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor design in California is $127,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $148,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Sensor Design roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Sensor Design often encounter challenges such as balancing sensitivity and selectivity, minimizing noise and interference, and ensuring manufacturability at scale. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—can help address integration issues and optimize performance. Keeping up with rapid technological advances is also key, so continuous learning and prototyping are essential parts of the role. Open communication and iterative testing are important strategies to overcome these challenges and deliver reliable sensor solutions.

What is sensor design?

Sensor design is the process of developing devices that detect and respond to physical stimuli such as heat, light, motion, or pressure. This field involves engineering the materials, electronics, and structures that allow sensors to accurately convert real-world signals into measurable electrical outputs. Sensor designers work on optimizing sensitivity, reliability, and integration with other systems, which are critical for applications in industries like automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain aerospace or electrical engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sensor Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sensor Design Engineer, a solid background in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field is essential, along with experience in sensor technology and circuit design. Familiarity with CAD tools, simulation software (like COMSOL or ANSYS), and relevant industry certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can be highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set top performers apart. These skills ensure the ability to create innovative, reliable sensors that meet technical requirements and function seamlessly in their intended applications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior sensor design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in electronics and signal processing, and often working in specialized industries or at large technology companies can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, often including stock options or bonuses. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the difference between Sensor Design vs Sensor Testing?

AspectSensor DesignSensor Testing
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized knowledge in sensor developmentEngineering or technical degree, focus on testing procedures
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, development teamsTesting labs, quality assurance departments, field testing sites
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, aerospace, consumer devicesManufacturers, quality assurance firms, research institutions

Sensor Design involves creating and developing new sensor technologies, focusing on innovation and functionality. Sensor Testing, on the other hand, evaluates sensor performance to ensure quality and reliability. Both roles are essential in the sensor industry but differ in their focus—designing versus validating sensors.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain electrical or computer hardware engineering roles can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and may involve leadership responsibilities or working in competitive markets.

What skills do you need to be a sensor engineer?

Sensor engineers need strong knowledge of electronics, materials science, and signal processing. Proficiency in programming languages such as C or Python, experience with CAD tools, and understanding of sensor calibration and testing are also important. Additionally, problem-solving skills and the ability to work with interdisciplinary teams are essential for success in this role.
What job categories do people searching Sensor Design jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Design jobs in California are:
Staff Sensor Design Engineer

Staff Sensor Design Engineer

Rivian

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$167K - $209K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Rivian rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

About Rivian

Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract. 

As a company, we constantly challenge what’s possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations. 


Role Summary

In this role, the Sensor Design Engineer will own sensor system design, bring-up, and
validation for the current and next generation of Rivian electric vehicles. This would be a highly
visible role working cross-functionally to influence design, contribute to solving sensor
system integration challenges, and experience the complete prototyping to manufacturing
product development cycle. You will be responsible for ensuring sensors function reliably
and meet system-level performance targets under real-world operating conditions.


Responsibilities

- Lead the design, development, optimization, and validation of sensing systems and
components.
- Hands-on design and validation of prototype hardware and maturing the design by
characterizing and debugging test vehicles to optimize your design
- Evaluate and implement state-of-the-art signal processing techniques
- Coordinate with external partners and suppliers to leverage cutting-edge
technologies.
- Support sensor selection, evaluation, and bring-up, including root cause analysis on
field failures or yield issues.
- Drive technical decisions and guide the team in the right direction.
- Think holistically. Understand the impact of your plan or decision to program and
customers. Deep dive into technical issues to drive data-driven decisions.
- Perform other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the position


Qualifications

- BS + 10 years or MS + 8 years or PhD + 6 years or equivalent experience in electrical
engineering, computer engineering, or related field.
- Experience with automotive sensor mounting, packaging, sealing, and thermal
constraints.
- Proficiency with test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, power analyzers), as
well as vehicle data loggers and network analyzers.
- Experience with vehicle integration and on-road validation, including debug of
real-world sensor performance issues.
- Demonstrated strong creative thinking and problem-solving toolbox
- Ability to collaborate and drive direction through multidisciplinary discussions
- Understanding of automotive requirements
- Have a fine eye for detail, yet the ability to ‘zoom out’ and see the big picture


Pay Disclosure

The salary range for this role is $167,000 - $209,000 for Palo Alto, CA-based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors, including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs. The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual performance bonus and equity awards.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits, including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees. You may also have the opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements. Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com.



Equal Opportunity

Rivian is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Rivian is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at candidateaccommodations@rivian.com.

Candidate Data Privacy

Rivian may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applicable data protection laws) when you apply for employment and/or participate in our recruitment processes (“Candidate Personal Data”). This data includes contact, demographic, communications, educational, professional, employment, social media/website, network/device, recruiting system usage/interaction, security and preference information. Rivian may use your Candidate Personal Data for the purposes of (i) tracking interactions with our recruiting system; (ii) carrying out, analyzing and improving our application and recruitment process, including assessing you and your application and conducting employment, background and reference checks; (iii) establishing an employment relationship or entering into an employment contract with you; (iv) complying with our legal, regulatory and corporate governance obligations; (v) recordkeeping; (vi) ensuring network and information security and preventing fraud; and (vii) as otherwise required or permitted by applicable law. 

Rivian may share your Candidate Personal Data with (i) internal personnel who have a need to know such information in order to perform their duties, including individuals on our People Team, Finance, Legal, and the team(s) with the position(s) for which you are applying; (ii) Rivian affiliates; and (iii) Rivian’s service providers, including providers of background checks, staffing services, and cloud services. 

Rivian may transfer or store internationally your Candidate Personal Data, including to or in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union and in the cloud, and this data may be subject to the laws and accessible to the courts, law enforcement and national security authorities of such jurisdictions.  

Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services.

Qualifications:

- BS + 10 years or MS + 8 years or PhD + 6 years or equivalent experience in electrical
engineering, computer engineering, or related field.
- Experience with automotive sensor mounting, packaging, sealing, and thermal
constraints.
- Proficiency with test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, power analyzers), as
well as vehicle data loggers and network analyzers.
- Experience with vehicle integration and on-road validation, including debug of
real-world sensor performance issues.
- Demonstrated strong creative thinking and problem-solving toolbox
- Ability to collaborate and drive direction through multidisciplinary discussions
- Understanding of automotive requirements
- Have a fine eye for detail, yet the ability to ‘zoom out’ and see the big picture

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Rivian

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rivian is a pioneering automotive industry player headquartered in Irvine, California. Established in 2009, the company has made notable advancements in developing sustainable transportation solutions. It is widely recognized for its electric adventure vehicles: the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. Rivian is dedicated to creating a positive shift in societal mobility and emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and adventure as part of its core values. Their mission is to keep the world adventurous forever - a testament to their commitment in transitioning the world to sustainable transportation. Rivian's achievements are numerous, with one of the most notable being securing a significant multi-billion dollar investment from Amazon for the production of electric delivery vans.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

2009