Pineda made his professional debut in the Mexican Primera División in 2002–2003 season playing for Pumas UNAM in a 0–1 defeat against Morelia.

On May 24, 2010, the press revealed that Pineda would play for Cruz Azul in The Centenario 2010 Tournament, which was confirmed by Sport Director Alberto Quintano.

Following his release, Pineda joined Seattle Sounders FC of Major League Soccer on a preseason trial.

In June 2006, he was selected by coach Ricardo Lavolpe, to be part of the 23 man Mexican squad to play in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Tournament in Germany.

After announcing his retirement from football and his intention of becoming a coach,[6] Pineda joined Univision, working as a soccer analyst for the American Spanish-language national broadcast network.

On January 20, 2017, Pineda rejoined Seattle Sounders FC as an assistant coach on Brian Schmetzer's staff.

[7] He signed a contract extension with the club in March 2021, following an off-season interview with D.C. United for their head coach vacancy.

[8][9] On August 12, 2021, Pineda was appointed head coach at Major League Soccer club Atlanta United FC.

Since his family had achieved US citizenship, Pineda felt it was in their best interest to stay in this country and not return to Mexico after retirement.