C Software Engineer Jobs in California
C Software Engineer jobs in California are in strong demand, concentrated in defense and aerospace, embedded systems, automotive technology, and high-performance computing, with openings at every level from entry-level to principal and staff engineer. The largest hiring hubs are the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where employers such as Northrop Grumman, Qualcomm, and Apple maintain deep engineering organizations with persistent need for C expertise. Systems programming, real-time operating systems, and firmware development are the most sought-after specialties across these markets. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Overview
ArcGIS Pro is a powerful geographic information system (GIS) software used to analyze, visualize, and share spatial data, addressing real-world challenges. As a key member of our Desktop Architecture team, you will have the opportunity to work on extensive software infrastructure and frameworks, quickly adapt to established coding patterns, and contribute to enhancing performance, reliability, and security.
In this role, you will apply your expertise in C/C++, operating systems, security, debugging, and performance profiling to develop robust software frameworks, resolve complex issues, and collaborate with senior engineers on innovative features that enhance system performance and reliability.
We are committed to fostering an environment where team members can take ownership of their work and make a meaningful impact. You will engage in rapid iterations, learning from feedback and metrics to align with the mission and goals of our users.
Responsibilities
- Develop, enhance, and maintain extensive C/C++ software frameworks
- Diagnose and resolve defects utilizing debugging and profiling tools
- Leverage your knowledge of operating system internals to contribute to a secure and robust software design
- Work alongside senior engineers to design and implement innovative features
- Stay informed about technical trends and actively engage in learning across a broad range of topics, including software architecture, encryption, optimization, machine learning, computer hardware, and the business of software, to enhance your contributions to the team
Requirements
- 2+ years of demonstrated experience in C/C++ software development
- Understanding and experience with software testing patterns and fundamentals
- Strong grasp of operating systems concepts and computer security fundamentals
- Proficiency in debugging, troubleshooting, and performance analysis
- Awareness of technical trends and a keen interest in a broad range of topics, including software architecture, encryption, optimization, machine learning, computer hardware, and the business of software
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or STEM related field
Recommended Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of Windows operating system internals
- Familiarity with C# and UI frameworks such as WPF or WinForms
- Understanding of COM, IPC, threading, and concurrency
- Familiarity with x64 or ARM assembly language
- Master's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or STEM related field
The Company
At Esri, diversity is more than just a word on a map. When employees of different experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and cultures come together, we are more innovative and ultimately a better place to work. We believe in having a diverse workforce that is unified under our mission of creating positive global change. We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a destination but an ongoing process. We are committed to the continuation of learning, growing, and changing our workplace so every employee can contribute to their life's best work. Our commitment to these principles extends to the global communities we serve by creating positive change with GIS technology.
If you don't meet all of the preferred qualifications for this position, we encourage you to still apply!
Esri is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email askcareers@esri.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Esri Privacy Esri takes our responsibility to protect your privacy seriously. We are committed to respecting your privacy by providing transparency in how we acquire and use your information, giving you control of your information and preferences, and holding ourselves to the highest national and international standards, including CCPA and GDPR compliance.
See All 47 C Software Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find C Software Engineer JobsC Software Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
C Software Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Esri8

- HAZEN AND SAWYER7

- Environmental Systems Research Institute4

- Figma2

Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software25
- Consulting & Professional Services12
- Manufacturing3
- Electronics & Hardware2
- Aerospace & Defense1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in C software engineer jobs across California.
- Proficiency in C programming with experience in systems or embedded development
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering
- Experience with real-time operating systems such as FreeRTOS, VxWorks, or Linux kernel
- Familiarity with hardware-software integration, debugging tools, and low-level memory management
- Knowledge of version control systems such as Git and collaborative development workflows
- Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and performance optimization techniques
C Software Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a c software engineer in California?
Most c software engineers in California enter the field with a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related discipline. California does not require a state-issued license specifically for software engineers, though some roles in aerospace, defense, or safety-critical systems may require security clearances or employer-specific certifications. Building a portfolio of C projects, contributing to open-source systems software, and targeting California's large embedded and systems engineering employers strengthens a candidate's position significantly.
How much do C software engineers make in California?
C software engineers in California earn a median of about $174,410 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $105,060 for the lowest 10% to over $272,670 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire c software engineers in California?
Employers hiring c software engineers in California right now include Esri, HAZEN AND SAWYER, and Environmental Systems Research Institute, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's concentration of defense contractors, semiconductor companies, and consumer electronics firms means demand for C expertise is spread across a wide range of established engineering organizations.
Which California cities have the most c software engineer jobs?
The cities with the most c software engineer openings in California are Redlands, Irvine, and San Jose. The Bay Area draws the highest volume because of its density of semiconductor and systems software companies, while Los Angeles and San Diego reflect California's large aerospace and defense contracting base, where C programming is a core engineering requirement.
Are there remote c software engineer jobs in California?
Yes, and more than many engineering specialties, because C development for non-hardware-dependent applications can be done entirely remotely. About 36% of c software engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting the role's strong software component. Work involving hardware-in-the-loop testing, lab equipment, or classified systems is most likely to require on-site presence.
How can I get hired as a c software engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to new-grad software engineer roles at California-based defense and semiconductor companies, which run structured internship-to-hire and rotational engineering programs for candidates without professional experience. Employers such as Northrop Grumman and Qualcomm recruit directly from California university engineering programs. Lateral entry from adjacent roles in IT, QA engineering, or technical support is also common. A strong GitHub portfolio featuring low-level C projects, contributions to open-source firmware, or university capstone work in embedded systems gives candidates a clear edge.
Where can I find and apply to c software engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to c software engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries. Find roles that fit your experience and location and apply directly to each one.
See All 47 C Software Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find C Software Engineer Jobs