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Software Quality Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Be part of the engineering team, focused on testing software and frameworks used to develop Apple's next generation human interface devices! Description Testing is focused on macOS and iOS frameworks ...

Be part of the engineering team, focused on testing software and frameworks used to develop Apple's next generation human interface devices! Description Testing is focused on macOS and iOS frameworks ...

Be part of the engineering team, focused on testing software and frameworks used to develop Apple's next generation human interface devices! Description Testing is focused on macOS and iOS frameworks ...

Software Quality Engineer I - Hybrid

Irvine, CA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Software Quality Assurance Engineer I is an entry-level individual contributor within the Software Quality Assurance organization. The role is primarily focused on supporting software quality ...

Software Quality Engineer I - Hybrid

Irvine, CA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Software Quality Assurance Engineer I is an entry-level individual contributor within the Software Quality Assurance organization. The role is primarily focused on supporting software quality ...

Software quality engineer (US)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$132K - $258K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a software quality engineer at WRITER, you'll play a critical role in shaping the reliability, performance, and trustworthiness of our AI-powered work orchestration platform. You'll be at the ...

Embedded Software Quality Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Introduction to the role The DUV Software Group at Cymer is seeking a talented Software Quality Assurance Engineer with experience-and enthusiasm-for complex, real-time control systems. In this role ...

Embedded Software Quality Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Introduction to the role The DUV Software Group at Cymer is seeking a talented Software Quality Assurance Engineer with experience-and enthusiasm-for complex, real-time control systems. In this role ...

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Showing results 21-40

Software Quality Engineer information

See California salary details

$18

$47

$77

How much do software quality engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for software quality engineer in California is $47.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.74 and $54.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Software Quality Engineer vs Software Tester?

AspectSoftware Quality EngineerSoftware Tester
Primary FocusEnsuring overall quality, process improvement, and defect preventionIdentifying bugs and verifying software functionality
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping quality strategies, automating tests, collaborating with teamsExecuting test cases, reporting bugs, manual testing
Required SkillsTesting tools, automation, quality assurance processesManual testing, test case execution, defect tracking
Work EnvironmentCollaborative, cross-functional teams in software developmentPrimarily testing teams or QA departments

While both roles focus on software quality, Software Quality Engineers take a broader approach, emphasizing process improvement and automation, whereas Software Testers mainly focus on executing tests and identifying bugs. The roles often overlap but serve different stages of the quality assurance process.

How does a software quality engineer typically collaborate with development and product teams to ensure high-quality releases?

As a Software Quality Engineer, you’ll work closely with developers and product managers throughout the software development lifecycle. Regular collaboration involves participating in sprint planning, reviewing requirements, designing test cases, and providing feedback on user stories. You’ll also be responsible for communicating defects clearly, suggesting improvements, and validating fixes, ensuring everyone is aligned on quality goals. This close teamwork ensures that issues are caught early and that the final product meets both technical and user expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software quality engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Quality Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, test methodologies, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools (like Selenium or JUnit), bug tracking systems (such as Jira), and scripting languages is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong communication are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure software products meet high standards for reliability and functionality, reducing defects and improving user satisfaction.

What is a software quality engineer?

Software Quality Engineers are professionals responsible for ensuring that software products meet established quality standards before they are released to customers. They design and execute tests, identify bugs or issues, and collaborate with developers to resolve problems. Their work helps prevent defects, enhances user satisfaction, and ensures the reliability and safety of software applications. Software Quality Engineers may use automation tools and manual testing methods to validate functionality, performance, and security.
More about Software Quality Engineer jobs

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

The most popular types of Software Quality Engineer jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Software Quality Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Quality Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Software Quality Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Software Quality Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Quality Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,648 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Software Quality Engineer

Apple

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Be part of the engineering team, focused on testing software and frameworks used to develop Apple's next generation human interface devices!
Description
Testing is focused on macOS and iOS frameworks that drive unique UI experiences. Interface with low-level software and provide data to processing pipelines. An ideal candidate is a motivated individual who independently follows up on bugs, collaborates with developers to resolve issues and can understand and discuss technical problems with other QE engineers, development partners and program managers.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree
Experience programming in Python and one other object-oriented programming language (Objective C, Swift, Java)
Experience in testing & debugging UI frameworks
Skilled in bug hunting and identifying regressions
Familiarity with continuous integration and scheduling systems
Familiarity with cloud services and data processing
Preferred Qualifications
MS or PhD in SW/CS/EE or related degrees
Knowledge of Mac systems and MacOS/iOS or UNIX variant
Track record of shipping great consumer products
Previous experience with software measurement tools to analyze performance and memory usage
Ability to thrive in uncertain, rapid project schedules, being able to quickly shift priorities and maximize testing time
Strives to innovate and try new things, incorporating continuous improvement of testing methods

What Apple employees say

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976