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Software Debugger Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

Debug complex, system-level, multi-component issues that typically span across multiple layers from ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

Debug complex, system-level, multi-component issues that typically span across multiple layers from ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

Debug complex, system-level, multi-component issues that typically span across multiple layers from ... Embedded software debugging experience including clock-level issues, bridges, delays, interrupts ...

Proficiency with debug and bring-up tools such as Lauterbach Trace32 and JTAG-based debuggers ... Experience using software revision control systems such as Perforce. * Ability to interpret ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Debugger information

See California salary details

$18

$42

$69

How much do software debugger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for software debugger in California is $42.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software debugger?

To thrive as a Software Debugger, you need strong problem-solving abilities, proficiency in at least one programming language, and a deep understanding of software development and debugging methodologies. Experience with debugging tools such as GDB, WinDbg, or integrated development environments (IDEs), as well as knowledge of version control systems, is highly valuable, and relevant certifications (like those from Microsoft or CompTIA) can be a plus. Attention to detail, patience, excellent communication, and analytical thinking are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities enable Software Debuggers to efficiently identify, analyze, and resolve software issues, ensuring product reliability and optimal team collaboration.

What is a software debugger?

A Software Debugger is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and fixing software defects in applications or systems. They use debugging tools, code reviews, and testing to ensure programs run correctly and efficiently. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, proficiency in programming languages, and a deep understanding of software development processes. Debuggers often collaborate with developers and testers to improve code quality and system stability.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a software debugger?

Software Debuggers spend much of their day analyzing code, identifying bugs or performance bottlenecks, and collaborating with software developers to resolve these issues. They use specialized debugging tools and may review logs, write test cases, or reproduce complex errors reported by users or QA teams. Additionally, they often document their findings, provide recommendations for preventing similar issues, and participate in team meetings to share progress. This role typically involves a blend of independent problem-solving and close coordination with development, QA, and support teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Debugger jobs in California?

The most popular types of Software Debugger jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Software Debugger job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,305 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Entry level & Senior Software Engineer, Core AI Software (Onsite)

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 hours ago


Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 244 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Machine Learning Engineering
General Summary:
As a leading technology innovator, Qualcomm pushes the boundaries of what's possible to enable next-generation experiences and drive digital transformation, creating a smarter, connected future for all. As a Qualcomm AI Software Engineer, you will develop and implement cutting-edge machine learning techniques that enable the efficient utilization of state-of-the-art solutions across various technology verticals.
In this position, you will be responsible for assisting with the software design and development of the Qualcomm AI Stack features within Qualcomm AI Runtime (QAIRT) SDK, specifically Core software including Generative AI Inference Extensions (Genie). You will contribute to the efficient execution of advanced deep neural networks (DNNs), large language models (LLMs), and other modern AI architectures. You will also be responsible for supporting AI stack that optimizes runtime efficiency, latency and power consumption of AI applications running Machine Learning workloads on Qualcomm's low-power AI accelerators.
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your passion for software design and development through your analytical, design, programming, and debugging skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 2+ years of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field and 1+ year of Hardware Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field.
Responsibilities
  • Develop software for the Qualcomm AI Stack SDKs, specifically QAIRT and Genie, to support the execution of the latest generative AI models on Snapdragon platforms.

  • Design and implement core components of Qualcomm AI Stack runtime framework for inference on resource constrained AI systems, operating in low power, small memory footprint platforms

  • Validate, analyze, and optimize the performance and accuracy of software through detailed testing of machine learning use cases.

  • Debug complex issues, perform root cause analysis, and ensure high system reliability

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable AI software solutions.

  • Assist in feature development and application of machine learning techniques into products and AI solutions, enabling customers to do the same.

  • Contribute to a culture of technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the AI Software team.

  • Participate in design and code reviews.

  • Work independently with minimal supervision.

Minimum Qualifications (Must Have)
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.

  • Projects or Internships experience (Entry level) / 2+ years (Senior) of general software development experience.

  • Proficiency in software development using C/C++.

  • Experience with development in a Linux environment.

  • Strong software development skills, including data structure and algorithm design, object-oriented or other software design paradigms, software debugging, and testing.

  • Excellent communication skills (verbal, presentation, and writing).

Preferred Qualifications (Desired)
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

  • 1+ years of experience building embedded software applications.

  • Familiarity with various generative AI model architectures such as LLMs.

  • Strong understanding of hardware acceleration and deployment of generative AI inference at the connected edge.

  • Experience with development in various platforms such as Linux, Android, or Windows.

  • Knowledge of low-level interactions between operating systems (e.g., Linux, Android, Windows) and hardware.

  • Experience with CMake-based build environments.

  • Experience using/integrating Qualcomm AI Stack products (e.g. QNN, Genie).

  • Experience with agile software development practices and git-based SCM.

  • Ability to collaborate across a globally diverse team and manage multiple interests.

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm 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, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$140,800.00 - $211,200.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985