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Theoretical Computer Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

pony.ai

Software Engineer Intern - Generalist

Fremont, CA · On-site

$7.0K - $10K/mo

Strong foundation in mathematics and theoretical computer science, such as linear algebra, calculus, graph theory, computational geometry, combinatorial optimization algorithms, stochastic processes ...

pony.ai

Software Engineer Intern - Generalist

Fremont, CA · On-site

$7.0K - $10K/mo

Strong foundation in mathematics and theoretical computer science, such as linear algebra, calculus, graph theory, computational geometry, combinatorial optimization algorithms, stochastic processes ...

pony.ai

(Senior) Software Engineer - Evaluation

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $250K/yr

Strong foundation in mathematics and theoretical computer science, such as linear algebra, calculus, graph theory, computational geometry, combinatorial optimization algorithms, stochastic processes ...

pony.ai

(Senior) Software Engineer - Evaluation

Fremont, CA · On-site

$120K - $250K/yr

Strong foundation in mathematics and theoretical computer science, such as linear algebra, calculus, graph theory, computational geometry, combinatorial optimization algorithms, stochastic processes ...

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All JobsTheoretical Computer Science JobsTheoretical Computer Science Jobs in California

Theoretical Computer Science information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$125K

$168.8K

How much do theoretical computer science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for theoretical computer science in California is $124,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $151,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is theoretical computer science?

Theoretical computer science is a branch of computer science that focuses on understanding the fundamental principles and mathematical foundations of computation. It includes areas such as algorithms, computational complexity, automata theory, and formal languages, often requiring strong mathematical and analytical skills. Professionals in this field analyze the limits of what computers can solve and develop models to improve computational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Theoretical Computer Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Theoretical Computer Science, a strong background in mathematics, algorithms, and computational theory is essential, usually backed by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with formal verification tools, mathematical modeling software, and programming languages like Python or C++ is often required. Critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective written communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital for developing rigorous proofs, articulating complex concepts, and contributing meaningful insights to the field.

What is the highest paying job in computer science?

In computer science, roles such as machine learning engineer, data scientist, and software architect tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions typically require advanced skills in algorithms, programming, and sometimes specialized certifications or experience with large-scale systems.

What are typical responsibilities for someone working in Theoretical Computer Science?

Theoretical Computer Science professionals often spend their days conducting original research, developing new algorithms, and analyzing computational problems from a mathematical perspective. They may collaborate closely with other researchers in interdisciplinary teams, attend academic conferences, and contribute to scholarly publications. While much of the work is individual and highly focused, regular interaction with collaborators and the broader academic community is common. This role can also involve mentoring students and engaging in peer review, making it both intellectually stimulating and highly collaborative.

What jobs can you do with theoretical computer science?

Theoretical computer science graduates can pursue roles such as research scientists, algorithm engineers, cryptographers, and data scientists. These positions often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of algorithms, and programming proficiency in languages like Python or C++, with opportunities in academia, industry, and government research labs.

Is computer science dead due to AI?

Theoretical computer science remains a fundamental field that underpins AI development, algorithms, and computational theory. AI advances create new research challenges and job opportunities for computer scientists skilled in areas like algorithms, machine learning, and data structures.

What is a Theoretical Computer Science job?

A Theoretical Computer Science job focuses on studying the fundamental principles of computation, algorithms, complexity, and mathematical models of computing. Professionals in this field work on problems related to computational efficiency, cryptography, machine learning theory, and formal methods. They often conduct research in academia, develop new algorithms, or contribute to cutting-edge technology in industry. These roles typically require strong mathematical skills and expertise in logic, discrete mathematics, and algorithm design.

What are the most commonly searched types of Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California? For Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Theoretical Computer Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Theoretical Computer Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Theoretical Computer Science job openings:
Theoretical Computer Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theoretical Computer Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,954 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Research Scientist

Chai Discovery, Inc

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

About Chai Discovery
Chai is a research lab working on generative models for molecular design. We are building AI infrastructure to engineer new medicines with speed and precision. The world's largest pharmaceutical companies-including Eli Lilly, Pfizer, and Novartis-have started adopting our platform across their organizations.
Our mission is to unlock progress towards better cures and better science, and we see countless interesting problems on the road ahead. We are known for talent density, rigorous research and pace of execution.
Our founders have been at the forefront of this field from the beginning. We are backed by Sequoia, Index, Thrive, General Catalyst, Dimension, OpenAI and others.
About the role
We are hiring research scientists with outlier insight who can drive new avenues for the work we pursue. From pre-training large diffusion models and architecture design, to post-training and inference time scaling, we draw upon the best ideas from within our domain and across the field.
Our models have moved beyond protein structure prediction into real-world therapeutic engineering-and we have only just begun. Our team hails from physics, math, theoretical computer science, computational biology and related disciplines. Everyone is capable and self-sufficient, and everyone helps foster a highly collaborative and collegial environment.
Our view is that executing on a long-term research program requires bringing together the right people, with access to the best resources, aligned towards common objectives. And nothing is more essential to our mission and our business than the progress of our research.
About you
We are looking for researchers driven by impact and foundational progress. We index on sustained focus, rigor and results-people who get obsessed with hard problems and don't give up easily. Folks with a nose for tackling the right questions at the right time, alongside an ample dose of grit and curiosity.
We value academic training, research track record, and proven industry accomplishments; we are also more than willing to make a bet on rising talent. We look for engineering capability as well as literature fluency.
We offer
The opportunity to work at the leading edge of AI research, with world-class people, on a mission that matters. We protect & promote a culture of high velocity and ownership. We offer highly competitive compensation.

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