Hardware Engineer Jobs in California
Hardware Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in semiconductors, consumer electronics, defense systems, and electric vehicles, with openings at every level from entry-level ASIC validation to principal hardware design. The largest hiring clusters are in the San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles, where companies like Apple, Qualcomm, and Northrop Grumman have deep, lasting engineering operations. The most in-demand specialties right now are PCB design, FPGA development, and embedded hardware engineering. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 363+ Hardware Engineer jobs
Ready to Drive the Future?
As part of the global Bertrandt Group, our team of innovators tackles cutting-edge projects across ADAS, Autonomous Driving, Electric Mobility, and Manufacturing Support, transforming complex issues into sustainable, connected solutions.
General Benefits:
- Complete and comprehensive benefits package including Med/Dent/Vision
- Employer paid STD/LTD/Life
- 401k Retirement program
- Generous paid vacation/sick/holidays
- Creativity encouraged in a fun, friendly work environment
Role Overview
Bertrandt is seeking an experienced ADAS Hardware Engineer to support prototype vehicle build-up activities within a workshop/prototype garage environment, with a strong focus on hardware integration, change management, and cross-functional coordination.
This role acts as a technical bridge between customers, workshop operations (foremen and technicians), and engineering teams in Germany, ensuring that hardware-related changes, updates, and improvements are properly defined, designed, and implemented.
The position combines hands-on build-up experience with engineering-level responsibility for hardware design coordination, making it critical for successful execution of prototype and pre-series vehicle projects.
Scope of the Role
- Engineering-focused role with strong connection to hands-on workshop execution
- No direct personnel management responsibility, but technical leadership and coordination role
- Acts as central interface between workshop operations, customers, and engineering teams
- Focus on hardware design coordination, implementation, and integration quality
- Workshop-based role with minimal international travel
Key Responsibilities:
Hardware Engineering & Change Coordination
- Analyze, define, and implement hardware-related change requests from customers
- Evaluate feasibility, impact, and risks of design changes on vehicle systems
- Coordinate hardware modifications including: Wiring harnesses and cable routing, Mechanical components and brackets, ECUs, sensors, and mounting concepts
- Act as the main interface to German engineering teams for CAD design and updates, as well as electrical schematics
- Ensure alignment between customer requirements, parts quality, and engineering implementation internally and with suppliers
Prototype Build-Up & Integration Support
- Support and guide vehicle build-up, retrofits, and hardware updates in the workshop
- Work closely with foremen and technicians to ensure correct implementation of designs
- Validate hardware installations against design intent and functional requirements
- Ensure robust and serviceable integration of ADAS components into prototype vehicles
- Provide hands-on support during critical build phases when required
CAD Design & Coordination
- Coordinate creation and modification of CAD models and drawings with Germany-based teams
- Review and validate: 3D models and installation concepts, Technical drawings and schematics
- Ensure proper documentation of: Build configurations, design changes and design revisions
- Support release and versioning processes for hardware updates
Electrical & Mechanical Integration
- Oversee and support development of wiring harnesses and cable manufacturing solutions with Germany-based teams
- Interpret and validate electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Ensure proper integration of: Power supply concepts, Signal routing and network interfaces (CAN, Ethernet)
- Support mechanical integration including packaging, mounting, and durability considerations
Workshop & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with:
- Workshop Foreman (task coordination & execution alignment)
- ADAS Technicians (implementation & troubleshooting support)
- Customers (requirements, updates, and feedback)
- Engineering teams (Germany) (design and development support)
- Provide technical guidance to technicians during installation and modifications
- Support issue resolution related to hardware design and integration
Documentation & Process Compliance
- Maintain structured documentation of:
- Hardware changes and engineering decisions
- Build configurations and updates
- Technical concepts and releases
- Utilize issue tracking tools (e.g., JIRA) for change tracking and task management
- Ensure adherence to defined change management and release processes
- Support continuous improvement of hardware integration processes
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree in any of the following: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field
- 3+ years of experience in prototype vehicle build, hardware engineering, or vehicle integration
- Strong hands-on experience with prototype or pre-series vehicles
- Familiarity with Mercedes Benz makes & models
- Solid knowledge of:
- Automotive electrical systems and wiring harness
- Mechanical design and vehicle integration principles
- Experience reading and interpreting:
- Electrical schematics
- CAD drawings and 3D models
- Experience coordinating with cross-functional and international engineering teams
- Strong problem-solving and structured working approach
- Excellent communication and coordination skills
- Ability to travel internationally on occasion (i.e. for business travel to Germany)
- Valid California Driver’s License
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in ADAS development or integration environments
- Background in cable manufacturing, harness design, and routing concepts
- Experience with CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX, or similar)
- Familiarity with vehicle networks (CAN, Ethernet) and system interactions
- Experience in OEM or Tier 1 automotive environments
- Understanding of change management and release processes
- Experience using issue tracking tools (e.g., JIRA)
- German language skills OR bilingual English/German
Bertrandt US is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and strictly prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. We consider all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Ready to Drive the Future?
As part of the global Bertrandt Group, our team of innovators tackles cutting-edge projects across ADAS, Autonomous Driving, Electric Mobility, and Manufacturing Support, transforming complex issues into sustainable, connected solutions.
General Benefits:
- Complete and comprehensive benefits package including Med/Dent/Vision
- Employer paid STD/LTD/Life
- 401k Retirement program
- Generous paid vacation/sick/holidays
- Creativity encouraged in a fun, friendly work environment
Role Overview
Bertrandt is seeking an experienced ADAS Hardware Engineer to support prototype vehicle build-up activities within a workshop/prototype garage environment, with a strong focus on hardware integration, change management, and cross-functional coordination.
This role acts as a technical bridge between customers, workshop operations (foremen and technicians), and engineering teams in Germany, ensuring that hardware-related changes, updates, and improvements are properly defined, designed, and implemented.
The position combines hands-on build-up experience with engineering-level responsibility for hardware design coordination, making it critical for successful execution of prototype and pre-series vehicle projects.
Scope of the Role
- Engineering-focused role with strong connection to hands-on workshop execution
- No direct personnel management responsibility, but technical leadership and coordination role
- Acts as central interface between workshop operations, customers, and engineering teams
- Focus on hardware design coordination, implementation, and integration quality
- Workshop-based role with minimal international travel
Key Responsibilities:
Hardware Engineering & Change Coordination
- Analyze, define, and implement hardware-related change requests from customers
- Evaluate feasibility, impact, and risks of design changes on vehicle systems
- Coordinate hardware modifications including: Wiring harnesses and cable routing, Mechanical components and brackets, ECUs, sensors, and mounting concepts
- Act as the main interface to German engineering teams for CAD design and updates, as well as electrical schematics
- Ensure alignment between customer requirements, parts quality, and engineering implementation internally and with suppliers
Prototype Build-Up & Integration Support
- Support and guide vehicle build-up, retrofits, and hardware updates in the workshop
- Work closely with foremen and technicians to ensure correct implementation of designs
- Validate hardware installations against design intent and functional requirements
- Ensure robust and serviceable integration of ADAS components into prototype vehicles
- Provide hands-on support during critical build phases when required
CAD Design & Coordination
- Coordinate creation and modification of CAD models and drawings with Germany-based teams
- Review and validate: 3D models and installation concepts, Technical drawings and schematics
- Ensure proper documentation of: Build configurations, design changes and design revisions
- Support release and versioning processes for hardware updates
Electrical & Mechanical Integration
- Oversee and support development of wiring harnesses and cable manufacturing solutions with Germany-based teams
- Interpret and validate electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Ensure proper integration of: Power supply concepts, Signal routing and network interfaces (CAN, Ethernet)
- Support mechanical integration including packaging, mounting, and durability considerations
Workshop & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with:
- Workshop Foreman (task coordination & execution alignment)
- ADAS Technicians (implementation & troubleshooting support)
- Customers (requirements, updates, and feedback)
- Engineering teams (Germany) (design and development support)
- Provide technical guidance to technicians during installation and modifications
- Support issue resolution related to hardware design and integration
Documentation & Process Compliance
- Maintain structured documentation of:
- Hardware changes and engineering decisions
- Build configurations and updates
- Technical concepts and releases
- Utilize issue tracking tools (e.g., JIRA) for change tracking and task management
- Ensure adherence to defined change management and release processes
- Support continuous improvement of hardware integration processes
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree in any of the following: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field
- 3+ years of experience in prototype vehicle build, hardware engineering, or vehicle integration
- Strong hands-on experience with prototype or pre-series vehicles
- Familiarity with Mercedes Benz makes & models
- Solid knowledge of:
- Automotive electrical systems and wiring harness
- Mechanical design and vehicle integration principles
- Experience reading and interpreting:
- Electrical schematics
- CAD drawings and 3D models
- Experience coordinating with cross-functional and international engineering teams
- Strong problem-solving and structured working approach
- Excellent communication and coordination skills
- Ability to travel internationally on occasion (i.e. for business travel to Germany)
- Valid California Driver’s License
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in ADAS development or integration environments
- Background in cable manufacturing, harness design, and routing concepts
- Experience with CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX, or similar)
- Familiarity with vehicle networks (CAN, Ethernet) and system interactions
- Experience in OEM or Tier 1 automotive environments
- Understanding of change management and release processes
- Experience using issue tracking tools (e.g., JIRA)
- German language skills OR bilingual English/German
Bertrandt US is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and strictly prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. We consider all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
See All 363+ Hardware Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Hardware Engineer JobsHardware Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Hardware Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Apple77
- NVIDIA20
- Amazon16
- FieldAI13
- Broadcom12
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware156
- Technology & Software132
- Artificial Intelligence24
- Banking & Financial Services15
- Manufacturing15
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in hardware engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a closely related field
- Hands-on experience with PCB layout, schematic capture, or FPGA development
- Proficiency with hardware design tools such as Cadence, Altium, or Mentor Graphics
- Familiarity with signal integrity analysis, power delivery, and high-speed digital design
- Experience with lab instruments including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and spectrum analyzers
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills with firmware, software, and manufacturing teams
Hardware Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a hardware engineer in California?
Most hardware engineers in California enter the field with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering from a California university or accredited program. There is no state-issued license required to work as a hardware engineer in California, unlike licensed engineering disciplines such as civil or mechanical. However, earning a Professional Engineer credential through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists strengthens candidacy for senior or safety-critical roles.
How much do hardware engineers make in California?
Hardware engineers in California earn a median of about $185,180 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $126,590 for the lowest 10% to over $281,210 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire hardware engineers in California?
Employers hiring hardware engineers in California right now include Apple, NVIDIA, and Amazon, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's concentration of semiconductor, defense, and consumer electronics companies makes it one of the deepest hardware engineering hiring markets in the country.
Which California cities have the most hardware engineer jobs?
Cupertino, Sunnyvale, and San Jose have the most hardware engineer openings in California. The Bay Area dominates due to the density of semiconductor and consumer electronics headquarters, San Diego is driven by Qualcomm, defense contractors, and wireless hardware firms, and Los Angeles draws demand from aerospace, defense, and emerging electric vehicle companies operating throughout the greater metro.
Are there remote hardware engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Hardware engineering is inherently hands-on, requiring access to lab equipment, prototypes, and manufacturing floors, which limits remote arrangements. About 13% of hardware engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, with the most remote-eligible work concentrated in design review, simulation, and documentation phases rather than bring-up or validation work.
How can I get hired as a hardware engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a hardware engineering internship or new-graduate program at a large California employer. Companies like Apple, Broadcom, and Northrop Grumman run structured new-grad rotations for candidates with relevant coursework and project portfolios. Adjacent entry points include roles in hardware test engineering, lab technician positions, or electronics manufacturing support at California contract manufacturers. A strong capstone project, open-source PCB design portfolio, or hands-on work through a university IEEE chapter gives candidates a concrete edge over applicants with only coursework.
Where can I find and apply to hardware engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to hardware engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries including semiconductors, defense, consumer electronics, and electric vehicles. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly.
See All 363+ Hardware Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Hardware Engineer Jobs