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Software Engineer Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a ML Software Engineering Intern, you'll work alongside experienced hardware engineers to build ... They should also be excited to adapt, learn quickly, and grow in a fast-paced startup environment.

Be Seen First

... startup that's building the infrastructure behind some of the world's most advanced artificial ... Collaborate closely with software engineers, AI researchers, and technical leadership to solve ...

Senior Software Engineer Location: San Francisco (hybrid, 3 days in-office; NYC option depending on ... High About the Company The Company is a small, fast-paced startup in the Creator Tech industry. The ...

Senior Software Engineer Location: San Francisco (hybrid, 3 days in-office; NYC option depending on ... High About the Company The Company is a small, fast-paced startup in the Creator Tech industry. The ...

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Prior startup or founding experience is a plus About the Role Design, build, and operate features ... software, new grads considered * Proficiency in Python or TypeScript, plus SQL * Clear ...

Senior Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer will help architect and scale the core systems that power the platform ... moving startup environments with high ownership and autonomy • Strong product intuition and ...

Position Overview We are seeking a Software Engineer with strong programming fundamentals. You'll ... Experience working in fast-paced startup environments. * Prior experience in EDA, semiconductor, or ...

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $280K/yr

We are growing revenue like crazy and looking to hire a couple founding software engineers to help ... Experience as an early-stage startup engineer or founder. * Experience with TypeScript, React ...

AI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$230K - $280K/yr

San Jose, CA Salary: $230K - $280K An AI startup is hiring Mid and Senior Python Software Engineer to join a small, high-impact team building the next generation of AI-powered products. This is an ...

They are seeking a Software Engineer to develop user interfaces for DeFi applications, ensure ... of startup experience. • 60-hour work week, daily 4-hour overlap with Pacific Time. • ...

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

About the Role As a Software Engineer , you will build the infrastructure that allows us to do high ... Competitive equity compensation at a seed stage startup While this represents our expected range ...

They are seeking a Software Engineer to develop user interfaces for DeFi applications, ensure smart ... of startup experience. • 60-hour work week, daily 4-hour overlap with Pacific Time. • ...

AI Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$230K - $280K/yr

San Jose, CA Salary: $230K - $280K An AI startup is hiring Mid and Senior Python Software Engineer to join a small, high-impact team building the next generation of AI-powered products. This is an ...

Senior Software Engineer

Union City, CA · On-site

$139K - $184K/yr

Company Description Third Wave Automation is a rapidly growing startup that has demonstrated its ... Third Wave Automation is looking for a strong Software Engineer who is able to lead development of ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Engineer Startup information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do software engineer startup jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer startup in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the software engineer startup position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer in a startup environment, you need solid programming skills, a problem-solving mindset, and a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with agile methodologies, cloud platforms, version control (like Git), and rapid prototyping tools is highly valued, and startup engineers may also benefit from exposure to full-stack development. Adaptability, effective communication, and the ability to work independently in uncertain environments are standout soft skills. These competencies enable engineers to rapidly iterate on products, effectively collaborate across small teams, and contribute to the dynamic demands of a growing company.

What is a software engineer startup?

A Software Engineer Startup job involves developing, testing, and maintaining software in a fast-paced, early-stage company. Engineers in startups often wear multiple hats, working on both backend and frontend development, infrastructure, and sometimes even product decisions. The role requires adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with limited resources. Unlike larger companies, startup engineers may need to prototype quickly, iterate based on user feedback, and contribute to the overall growth strategy. This position is ideal for those who enjoy dynamic environments and taking ownership of projects.

What can I expect from the daily work environment as a software engineer at a startup?

Working as a Software Engineer at a startup typically means you'll be part of a small, agile team where roles and responsibilities can shift quickly based on company needs. You'll often participate in daily stand-ups, collaborate closely with founders or product leads, and have the opportunity to contribute ideas beyond your core coding tasks. The pace is usually fast, and you'll likely wear multiple hats, working on everything from prototyping new features to troubleshooting production issues. This hands-on, collaborative atmosphere provides excellent opportunities for skill growth, creative problem-solving, and making a visible impact on the company's direction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Startup jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Engineer Startup jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Software Engineer Startup jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Engineer Startup job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Software Engineer - All Levels

Allen Control Systems

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$94K - $332K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer 

Company Overview:

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing an autonomous gun turret using advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely detect, track, and neutralize enemy drones.

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders’ successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Robotics Software Engineer, very proficient in C++ or Python coding. We are hiring across multiple experience levels, including:

  • Associate Software Engineer

  • Software Engineer

  • Senior Software Engineer

  • Staff Software Engineer

  • Senior Staff Software Engineer

    Please note that your title and level will be determined based on your experience, skills, and the scope of responsibility appropriate for the role.
    What You'll Do:

  • Design, develop, and maintain high-performance software applications using C++ or Python.

  • Optimize and enhance existing software for efficiency, scalability, and reliability.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, computer vision, and software engineers.

  • Implement best practices in software engineering, including code reviews, unit testing, and documentation.

  • Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve software defects and performance issues.

  • Work with modern development tools, version control systems (Git), and CI/CD pipelines.

  • Develop algorithms and data structures to solve complex computational problems.

  • Ensure security and compliance standards are met in software development.

What You'll Need:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

  • Strong proficiency in C++ (C++11/14/17/20) and Python.

  • Experience working with robotics and/or autonomous systems.

  • Experience with multi-threading, concurrency, and performance optimization.

  • Familiarity with software development methodologies and design patterns.

  • Knowledge of system programming, memory management, and debugging tools.

  • Experience with version control systems (Git) and agile development practices.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

  • Professional experience in software development preferred.

You'll Stand Out:

  • Experience with GPU programming (CUDA, OpenCL) or parallel computing.

  • Knowledge of networking protocols and distributed systems.

  • Exposure to machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) or scientific computing.

  • Experience with DevOps tools (Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD pipelines)

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary

  • ACS Equity Package

  • Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

  • Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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Compensation Range: $94K - $332K