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 1,983+ Software Systems Engineer jobs
INTRODUCTION
The Software Systems Engineering team is responsible for defining SW development processes and ensuring that all safety-critical software meets a high safety bar for production vehicles.
In this role, you will design and implement methodologies, tools, and processes for safety-critical software that will revolutionize transportation in the 21st century. Borrowing principles from avionics, automotive, and other safety-critical industries, you will work with software engineers throughout the Zoox software org, ranging from state-of-the-art AI Autonomy software, all the way to highly-critical RTOS and middleware components.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and employ formal languages and models to describe intended software/system behaviors.
- Leverage third-party or build in-house tools to generate formal design and validation tests.
- Implement and integrate tools to verify that software/systems behave as intended.
- Integrate analysis and verification into existing processes, workflows, tools, and other infrastructure.
- Lead various systems engineering activities that are essential for a successful launch of safety-critical software on a self-driving vehicle.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in computer science, electrical engineering, robotics, aerospace, or related fields and 7+ years of experience.
- Strong problem-solving, leadership, and mentoring skills in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment.
- Strong formal methods background with good understanding of logic, formal languages, automata theory, and model checking.
- Experience applying modeling and analysis techniques to software systems.
- Strong programming skills in Python and C++ in real-time safety-critical applications and programming language fundamentals, object-oriented programming, memory management, performance, etc.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Contributed to formal methods research and/or implementations.
- Shipped software products to market in production automobiles, aircraft, spacecraft, or other systems that require safety-critical software in embedded hardware.
- Experience with standards such as DO178, ISO26262, SPICE or ASPICE, ISO12207, IEC61508, EN50128, etc.
COMPENSATION
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
ABOUT ZOOX
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.
A FINAL NOTE:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.
INTRODUCTION
The Software Systems Engineering team is responsible for defining SW development processes and ensuring that all safety-critical software meets a high safety bar for production vehicles.
In this role, you will design and implement methodologies, tools, and processes for safety-critical software that will revolutionize transportation in the 21st century. Borrowing principles from avionics, automotive, and other safety-critical industries, you will work with software engineers throughout the Zoox software org, ranging from state-of-the-art AI Autonomy software, all the way to highly-critical RTOS and middleware components.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and employ formal languages and models to describe intended software/system behaviors.
- Leverage third-party or build in-house tools to generate formal design and validation tests.
- Implement and integrate tools to verify that software/systems behave as intended.
- Integrate analysis and verification into existing processes, workflows, tools, and other infrastructure.
- Lead various systems engineering activities that are essential for a successful launch of safety-critical software on a self-driving vehicle.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in computer science, electrical engineering, robotics, aerospace, or related fields and 7+ years of experience.
- Strong problem-solving, leadership, and mentoring skills in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment.
- Strong formal methods background with good understanding of logic, formal languages, automata theory, and model checking.
- Experience applying modeling and analysis techniques to software systems.
- Strong programming skills in Python and C++ in real-time safety-critical applications and programming language fundamentals, object-oriented programming, memory management, performance, etc.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Contributed to formal methods research and/or implementations.
- Shipped software products to market in production automobiles, aircraft, spacecraft, or other systems that require safety-critical software in embedded hardware.
- Experience with standards such as DO178, ISO26262, SPICE or ASPICE, ISO12207, IEC61508, EN50128, etc.
COMPENSATION
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
ABOUT ZOOX
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.
A FINAL NOTE:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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 1,983+ Software Systems Engineer Jobs in California
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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
- Apple296
- NVIDIA144
- Qualcomm92
- Amazon55
- Rivian46
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware682
- Technology & Software677
- Consulting & Professional Services126
- Automotive119
- Manufacturing116
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, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 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?
Santa Clara, San Jose, and Sunnyvale 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 12% of software systems engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 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 1,983+ 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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