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Switch Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Firmware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

Perform firmware validation, software installation, configuration, and switch bring‑up activities ... Maintain accurate engineering documentation, issue tracking records, validation reports, and test ...

Broadcom's Core Switching Group builds the high-speed Ethernet silicon and software behind hyper-scale, and AI/ML data centers. As an Applications Engineer, you will work directly with users and ...

Sr. Firmware Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160 - $180/hr

Sr. Firmware Engineer Date: Jun 8, 2026 Location: San Jose, California, United States Company ... Perform firmware validation, software installation, configuration, and switch bring-up activities ...

Role: Network Engineer Location: Ventura, California (4 days onsite) Let's create our future ... Lead the migration from legacy Cisco platforms to Catalyst 9K series switches across campus and ...

Staff - Principal, Software Engineer, SDK

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$148K - $199K/yr

Responsibilities : • Own the SDK architecture for Eridu's custom switch ASICs, including HAL, abstraction layers, API models, and feature programming workflows. • Design and implement key ...

Showing results 41-60

Switch Engineer information

See California salary details

$57

$61

$65

How much do switch engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for switch engineer in California is $61.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59.86 and $63.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a switch engineer?

A Switch Engineer is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting telecommunications switching systems. They ensure network switches operate efficiently, manage configurations, and resolve connectivity issues. This role involves working with hardware and software components to optimize performance and support telecommunications infrastructure. Switch Engineers collaborate with network teams to enhance communication systems and prevent service disruptions.

What does a switch engineer do?

Day-to-day, a Switch Engineer is responsible for configuring, monitoring, and maintaining network switches to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This can include troubleshooting hardware or software issues, performing upgrades and patches, and responding to network faults or outages. Switch Engineers often collaborate closely with network architects, field technicians, and support teams to implement new technologies and resolve escalated issues. Regular documentation and reporting are also part of the role to track network health and support ongoing improvements.

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

To thrive as a Switch Engineer, you need strong knowledge of telecommunications networks, switching protocols, and troubleshooting methodologies, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields. Familiarity with network management systems, VoIP technologies, and certifications like CCNA or Juniper JNCIA are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining network reliability, resolving complex technical issues, and ensuring seamless connectivity within large-scale communication infrastructures.

Infographic showing various Switch Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,526 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Vice President of Engineering - Optical Circuit Switch (OCS)

II-VI UK, Ltd.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Define and drive the OCS technology and product roadmap
  • Lead system-level design of large-scale optical fabrics
  • Build and lead a multi-disciplinary engineering organization in different countries and different locations.
  • Deliver OCS platforms from concept to production
  • Engage with hyperscale customers and ecosystem partners
  • Drive innovation and IP strategy
  • Ensure manufacturing scalability and operational excellence
Education & Experience
  • Build and lead a world‑class, multi-disciplinary engineering organization across:
  • Photonics / optical design
  • ASIC / control electronics
  • Firmware and system software
  • Mechanical and packaging engineering
  • Deliver OCS platforms from concept through prototype, qualification, and high‑volume production.
  • Establish best practices in design for manufacturability (DFM), test, and reliability engineering.
  • Foster a culture of innovation and execution.
Skills Engineering Execution
  • Build and lead a world‑class, multi-disciplinary engineering organization across:
  • Photonics / optical design
  • ASIC / control electronics
  • Firmware and system software
  • Mechanical and packaging engineering
  • Deliver OCS platforms from concept through prototype, qualification, and high‑volume production.
  • Establish best practices in design for manufacturability (DFM), test, and reliability engineering.
  • Foster a culture of innovation and execution.
Customer & Ecosystem Engagement
  • Serve as the primary technical executive interface to hyperscale customers (e.g., cloud and AI infrastructure providers).
  • Translate system-level requirements (e.g., topology, bandwidth scaling, reconfiguration time) into product specifications.
  • Collaborate with partners across the ecosystem (optics, fiber, packaging, and system vendors).
Innovation & Differentiation
  • Drive innovation in:
    • High‑radix and high density OCS architectures
    • Low‑loss optical paths and packaging
    • Fast and scalable switching control planes
  • Build and manage IP strategy and patent portfolio in optical switching technologies.
Physical Requirements
  • Minimal physical activity: There is little to no need for heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or manual labor.
  • Computer use: Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse for communication, project management, and collaboration tools.
  • Travel: Some travel may be required for client meetings, conferences, or site visits, but this is not a core part of the job.
Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.

  • Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
  • Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
  • Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
  • Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
  • Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.

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