Software Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Software Systems Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in aerospace and defense, semiconductor design, enterprise software, and advanced manufacturing, with openings at every level from junior systems engineer through principal and staff engineer. The largest hiring markets are the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where established employers such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Qualcomm maintain deep engineering workforces. Embedded systems, systems integration, and model-based design are the specialties drawing the most consistent demand across California's defense corridor and Silicon Valley. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 306+ Software Systems Engineer jobs
We are looking for an experienced, communicative Senior Software Engineer to own the data pipelines, internal systems, and APIs that power our real-time manufacturing and R&D operations. What we need from you is deep, production-grade Python expertise and the ability to own a project end-to-end: partnering directly with material engineers, technicians, and hardware engineers to turn ambiguous operational challenges into working production software.
Responsibilities
- Own technical initiatives from inception to delivery: translate operational needs into technical roadmaps, architectural specs, and deployable code.
- Architect and scale end-to-end Python backends, spanning high-throughput event pipelines, internal REST APIs, and automated data processing tools.
- Interface directly with internal clients (production technicians, metrology specialists, and R&D engineers) to diagnose workflow bottlenecks and validate solutions on the floor.
- Optimize database performance and schema design for high-frequency telemetry, process metrics, and traceability data.
- Partner with our front-end engineers to define clean API contracts and data models for operator-facing UI’s.
Requirements
- 4+ years of software engineering experience with production Python as your primary language (experience with industrial protocols like MQTT, Modbus, OPC-UA, or PLCs is a strong plus).
- Proven end-to-end project ownership with the ability to define roadmaps, write specs, and execute code independently (experience working in manufacturing, hardware-in-the-loop, or physical R&D environments is a plus).
- Full-lifecycle Python backend expertise across REST APIs, event/data pipelines, and automation scripts (hands-on experience with FastAPI, Flask, or async processing is a plus).
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to run discovery directly with non-software stakeholders like scientists, technicians, and operations teams (experience scoping technical requirements directly from physical shop-floor workflows is a plus).
- Strong querying skills with schema design fundamentals.
Diamond Foundry is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.
Diamond Foundry Inc. is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable state and federal laws. Our commitment extends to ensuring that our manufacturing and engineering departments adhere to the highest standards of legal and regulatory compliance. Additionally, these departments may have specific physical requirements to ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations. We prioritize the well-being of our employees and strive to create a work environment that promotes both legal compliance and the optimal functioning of our manufacturing and engineering processes.
Manufacturing and Engineering Departments Physical Requirements:
- Use appropriate PPE and follow all safety policies, practices, and procedures.
- This position will often: Sit, stand for long periods, walk, grasp, reach with hands and arms, lift below and above shoulders, bend, twist at the waist, climb, balance, stoop, squat, kneel, crawl, talk, hear, see, use fine finger manipulation, and complete repetitive motions.
- Some tasks may require the use of ladders or stairs
- Some tasks may require driving or the use of foot controls
- Lift/carry and push/pull up to 50 pound
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
We are looking for an experienced, communicative Senior Software Engineer to own the data pipelines, internal systems, and APIs that power our real-time manufacturing and R&D operations. What we need from you is deep, production-grade Python expertise and the ability to own a project end-to-end: partnering directly with material engineers, technicians, and hardware engineers to turn ambiguous operational challenges into working production software.
Responsibilities
- Own technical initiatives from inception to delivery: translate operational needs into technical roadmaps, architectural specs, and deployable code.
- Architect and scale end-to-end Python backends, spanning high-throughput event pipelines, internal REST APIs, and automated data processing tools.
- Interface directly with internal clients (production technicians, metrology specialists, and R&D engineers) to diagnose workflow bottlenecks and validate solutions on the floor.
- Optimize database performance and schema design for high-frequency telemetry, process metrics, and traceability data.
- Partner with our front-end engineers to define clean API contracts and data models for operator-facing UI’s.
Requirements
- 4+ years of software engineering experience with production Python as your primary language (experience with industrial protocols like MQTT, Modbus, OPC-UA, or PLCs is a strong plus).
- Proven end-to-end project ownership with the ability to define roadmaps, write specs, and execute code independently (experience working in manufacturing, hardware-in-the-loop, or physical R&D environments is a plus).
- Full-lifecycle Python backend expertise across REST APIs, event/data pipelines, and automation scripts (hands-on experience with FastAPI, Flask, or async processing is a plus).
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to run discovery directly with non-software stakeholders like scientists, technicians, and operations teams (experience scoping technical requirements directly from physical shop-floor workflows is a plus).
- Strong querying skills with schema design fundamentals.
Diamond Foundry is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.
Diamond Foundry Inc. is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable state and federal laws. Our commitment extends to ensuring that our manufacturing and engineering departments adhere to the highest standards of legal and regulatory compliance. Additionally, these departments may have specific physical requirements to ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations. We prioritize the well-being of our employees and strive to create a work environment that promotes both legal compliance and the optimal functioning of our manufacturing and engineering processes.
Manufacturing and Engineering Departments Physical Requirements:
- Use appropriate PPE and follow all safety policies, practices, and procedures.
- This position will often: Sit, stand for long periods, walk, grasp, reach with hands and arms, lift below and above shoulders, bend, twist at the waist, climb, balance, stoop, squat, kneel, crawl, talk, hear, see, use fine finger manipulation, and complete repetitive motions.
- Some tasks may require the use of ladders or stairs
- Some tasks may require driving or the use of foot controls
- Lift/carry and push/pull up to 50 pound
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
See All 306+ Software Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsSoftware Systems Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Software Systems Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Apple31
- Meta17
- Tesla16
- NVIDIA12
- OpenAI11
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software18
- Science & Research10
- Electronics & Hardware10
- Gaming & Esports2
- Transportation & Logistics2
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in software systems engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in systems engineering, computer science, or a related engineering discipline required
- Proficiency in systems modeling languages such as SysML or UML for architecture documentation
- Experience with requirements management tools including DOORS, Jama, or equivalent platforms
- Active DoD security clearance or eligibility to obtain one preferred for defense-sector roles
- Familiarity with model-based systems engineering practices and digital thread workflows
- Experience supporting system verification and validation testing within a California defense or aerospace environment
Software Systems Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a software systems engineer in California?
The most direct path is a bachelor's degree in systems engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science, followed by entry into a junior systems or software engineering role at a California defense contractor, semiconductor company, or enterprise software firm. California does not require a state license specifically for software systems engineers, though Professional Engineer licensure through the California Board for Professional Engineers can strengthen candidacy for senior roles. Building experience with systems modeling, verification, and integration is the key differentiator.
How much do software systems engineers make in California?
Software systems 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 software systems engineers in California?
Employers hiring software systems engineers in California right now include Apple, Meta, and Tesla, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's concentration of aerospace primes, defense contractors, and semiconductor firms means demand runs consistently across Southern California's defense corridor and the Bay Area's technology sector.
Which California cities have the most software systems engineer jobs?
San Francisco, Sunnyvale, and Palo Alto are the California cities with the most software systems engineer openings. The Bay Area's density of enterprise software and semiconductor employers drives volume in the north, while Los Angeles and San Diego reflect the strength of Southern California's aerospace and defense industry, where major program offices and engineering centers are based.
Are there remote software systems engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely software-focused roles, because systems engineering often involves hardware integration, lab testing, and program reviews that require on-site presence. About 53% of software systems engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with remote options concentrated in requirements analysis, architecture documentation, and model-based design work that does not depend on physical lab access.
How can I get hired as a software systems engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a new-graduate rotational or associate engineering program at a large California defense or aerospace employer, where candidates cycle through systems integration, test, and requirements disciplines before specializing. Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin all run structured early-career programs with California sites that hire new graduates. Adjacent roles such as systems test engineer, integration and test technician, or requirements analyst are common lateral starting points. A degree in systems or electrical engineering, even without work experience, is the primary qualifying credential.
Where can I find and apply to software systems engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to software systems engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly.
See All 306+ Software Systems Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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