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Software Systems Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Work with System and Software engineers to develop software architecture models. * Support Verification and Validation of software product to ensure all integrated CSCIs function as intended.

Systems Architect

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$190K - $300K/yr

As a Systems Architect at Reliable Robotics, you will be a part of the Systems team and will report ... Experience certifying flight critical systems, hardware, and software via ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO-254 ...

Senior Networking Software Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $206K/yr

NVIDIA is looking for a brilliant Software & Systems Architect to join the NIC Software/Firmware Architecture group. The role involves defining the next-generation DPU/SmartNIC architecture and ...

Systems Architect

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$258K/yr

Understanding of software development methodologies and structured approaches to system development ... Experience in big data architecture and technology is preferred. * Experience in web services ...

Staff Systems Architect

Pleasanton, CA · Hybrid

$270K/yr

The team works across software architecture, controls development, software processes ... Systems engineers collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, manufacturing ...

System Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$258K/yr

Firestorm is building the next generation of uncrewed aircraft and advanced manufacturing systems. As a System Architect, you will own the end-to-end software system architecture, ensuring coherent ...

Systems Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$258K/yr

Design, configure, improve, and maintain Data Center and IT/Software Engineering Laboratory ... Develop and implement information technology system architecture for integration of multiple ...

Rack Systems Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$285K/yr

Overview We are hiring a Rack Systems Architect to define and deliver rack-scale compute systems ... Collaborate with software and firmware teams on rack management, telemetry, observability, and ...

Optical Systems Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$284K/yr

You will be responsible for architecting and implementing new optical hardware and software platforms in collaboration with our Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering and Software Development ...

Optical Systems Architect

San Jose, CA · On-site

$147K - $274K/yr

You will be responsible for architecting and implementing new optical hardware and software platforms in collaboration with our Systems Architecture, Systems Engineering and Software Development ...

Principal Software Systems QA Architect Description - This role is responsible for providing guidance for the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex software systems that meet specific ...

Expert-level, system-architect knowledge of full-stack software design, development, and integration in real-time mission operations or comparable high-availability environments * Proven leadership ...

Autonomy Systems Architect

Concord, CA · On-site

$265K/yr

Joby Aviation is focused on designing and developing novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. The Autonomy Architect will own the systems architecture and interact with key teams to ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Systems Architect information

See California salary details

$56

$70

$101

How much do software systems architect jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for software systems architect in California is $70.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61.92 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Software Systems Architect vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware Systems ArchitectSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS or related, often with certifications like TOGAFBachelor's or Master's in CS or related, coding certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning system architecture, collaborating with stakeholdersWriting, testing, and maintaining code
Industry UsageUsed in enterprise and large-scale system developmentUsed across startups, tech companies, and software firms

The Software Systems Architect focuses on designing overall system structures and ensuring scalability, while the Software Engineer implements and maintains the codebase. Both roles require technical expertise, but the architect's role is more strategic and design-oriented, whereas the engineer's role is more hands-on with coding and development tasks.

How does a software systems architect typically collaborate with development and operations teams during a project lifecycle?

A Software Systems Architect plays a central role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams by establishing clear technical guidelines, system requirements, and architectural standards. Throughout the project lifecycle, they facilitate regular meetings to align on system design, integration points, and performance expectations. They also provide support during implementation by reviewing code and ensuring architectural consistency, and they work closely with operations to address scalability, deployment, and maintenance considerations. This collaborative approach ensures the final product meets both business objectives and technical quality standards.

What does a software systems architect do?

A Software Systems Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the overall structure of complex software systems. They create high-level architectural plans, select appropriate technologies, and ensure that the system's components work together efficiently. Their role involves collaborating with stakeholders, developers, and engineers to translate business requirements into technical solutions while ensuring scalability, security, and maintainability. Software Systems Architects play a crucial role in guiding the technical direction of projects and making key decisions that affect the system’s performance and future growth.

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

To thrive as a Software Systems Architect, you need deep knowledge of software design principles, system integration, and architecture frameworks, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Mastery of tools like UML, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and familiarity with architectural frameworks such as TOGAF or Zachman, along with relevant certifications, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set outstanding architects apart. These competencies are essential to create scalable, secure, and efficient systems that align with business goals and technical requirements.

Do software systems architects make a lot of money?

Software systems architects typically earn high salaries due to their specialized skills in designing complex software infrastructure and their experience in the field. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, but they generally rank among the higher-paying roles in software development. Certifications and knowledge of tools like cloud platforms and enterprise architecture can also influence compensation.
What are popular job titles related to Software Systems Architect jobs in CA? For Software Systems Architect jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Software Systems Architect job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,103 per year, or $70.7 per hour.

Distinguished Engineer - Data Center System Software Architect

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 242 rated software companies


Job description

NVIDIA data center systems, such as DGX and HGX, have become core to NVIDIA's rapidly growing enterprise and cloud provider businesses. These platforms bring together the full power of NVIDIA GPUs, NVIDIA NVLink, NVIDIA InfiniBand networking, NVIDIA Grace CPUs, and a fully optimized NVIDIA AI and HPC software stack. We're looking for a strong technical architect to own the end-to-end architecture of these products, at the system software level.

Including firmware, kernel drivers, operating systems, and user mode drivers. You will work with component leads internally and engage with industry leading cloud service providers on taking these products to market.

What you'll be doing:

  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for major customers, leading technological discussions, defining KPIs, gathering requirements, and addressing complex technical queries.

  • As a system software architect, lead technical innovation and strategic collaborations with major hyperscalers to architect next-generation data center products.

  • Align NVIDIA's roadmap with major customers' requirements through direct engagement.

  • Develop and drive adoption of new technologies and protocols.

  • Make critical technical decisions in ambiguous situations, mitigating risks through left-shift strategies.

What we need to see:

  • Deep expertise in scalable and performant server system architecture, focusing on SW/HW interfaces.

  • Extensive experience with complex system software for accelerators (GPUs, DPUs, FPGAs).

  • Mastery of system firmware (SBIOS, OpenBMC), embedded systems, and Linux kernel internals.

  • Proficiency in Out-of-Band and In-Band management architectures, device management protocols (e.g., MCTP, PLDM, SPDM, RDE) and system management protocols (Redfish, IPMI).

  • Extensive knowledge of networking technologies and protocols, including TCP/IP, Ethernet, InfiniBand, as well as advanced switching and routing concepts

  • Experience collaborating with platform security experts to define tradeoffs between security and ease of use.

  • Demonstrated success in leading complex, cross-functional projects to completion, showcasing the ability to influence and achieve results without direct authority in large-scale, collaborative environments. Demonstrable experience in implementing left shift strategy to de-risk program execution.

  • BS or MS degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience).

  • 20+ years in the area of System architecture and design.

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Knowledge of cloud and cluster level deployment and management systems. Participation and contributions in standards bodies such as OCP and DMTF.

  • Familiarity with NVIDIA HPC programming models and libraries (CUDA, cuDNN, DOCA)

  • Knowledge of enterprise storage architectures and distributed parallel processing paradigms

NVIDIA is leading the way in groundbreaking developments in Artificial Intelligence, High-Performance Computing and Visualization. The GPU, our invention, serves as the visual cortex of modern computers and is at the heart of our products and services. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people on the planet working for us. If you're creative, passionate and self-motivated, we want to hear from you!

NVIDIA's invention of the GPU in 1999 fueled the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern deep learning - the next era of computing - with the GPU acting as the brain of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can perceive and understand the world. Today, we are increasingly known as "the AI computing company." We're looking to grow our company and establish teams with the most thoughtful people in the world. Are you ready to change the next generation of computing? Join us at the forefront of technological advancement.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 320,000 USD - 488,750 USD.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until August 8, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993