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Associate System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

System Engineer

Monterey, CA · Hybrid

$85K - $95K/yr

System Engineer Target Salary: $85K to $95K LOCATION: DLIFLC, 1759 Lewis Road, Monterey, CA 93944 ... Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate Required to Start Qualifications: * I AT Level II ...

Associate Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space, and Security (BDS ... Ground and System Level Integration& Test * Develop detailed test procedures and conduct ...

Associate Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space, and Security (BDS ... Ground and System Level Integration& Test * Develop detailed test procedures and conduct ...

Associate Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space, and Security (BDS ... Ground and System Level Integration& Test * Develop detailed test procedures and conduct ...

System Engineer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

System EngineerTarget Salary: $85K to $95KLOCATION: DLIFLC, 1759 Lewis Road, Monterey, CA ... Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate Required to Start Qualifications:IAT Level II ...

Associate Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space, and Security (BDS ... Ground and System Level Integration& Test * Develop detailed test procedures and conduct ...

Associate Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space, and Security (BDS ... Ground and System Level Integration & Test * Develop detailed test procedures and conduct ...

System Engineer 2

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$77.14 - $84.03/hr

As an Associate or Mid‑Level C‑17 Systems Engineer, you will support the C‑17 airplane programs, with a focus on services and modernization efforts. In this role, you will contribute to the ...

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Associate System Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate system engineer in California is $81,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate system engineer?

To thrive as an Associate System Engineer, you need a solid understanding of computer systems, networking, and operating systems, often backed by a relevant degree such as computer science or information technology. Familiarity with scripting languages, virtualization platforms, and certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this position. These skills ensure smooth system operations, quick issue resolution, and successful collaboration within IT teams.

What are some common challenges faced by associate system engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Associate System Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex technical issues, adapting to rapidly changing technologies, and balancing multiple priorities. To overcome these hurdles, it’s important to develop strong problem-solving skills, seek guidance from senior engineers or mentors, and stay updated through continuous learning. Effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as developers and network administrators, also help in resolving issues more efficiently and contribute to professional growth.

What is the difference between Associate System Engineer vs Network Support Engineer?

AspectAssociate System EngineerNetwork Support Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+Bachelor's in IT or related, certifications like Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems and infrastructureMonitoring, troubleshooting, and supporting network issues
Employer & Industry UsageIT companies, tech firms, and enterprise organizationsTelecom, internet service providers, and corporate IT departments

While both roles support IT infrastructure, Associate System Engineers focus on system setup and maintenance, whereas Network Support Engineers specialize in network troubleshooting and support. The roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ based on system versus network focus.

Is an associate system engineer an entry-level job?

Yes, an associate system engineer is typically considered an entry-level position that involves supporting and maintaining IT systems, often requiring basic knowledge of networking, operating systems, and troubleshooting. It is suitable for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience in the field.

What does an associate system engineer do?

An associate system engineer supports the design, implementation, and maintenance of IT systems and infrastructure. They troubleshoot technical issues, assist with system upgrades, and often work with tools like network hardware, operating systems, and monitoring software under supervision to gain experience and develop technical skills.

What is the salary of an associate system engineer?

The salary of an associate system engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the company's size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with relevant certifications or skills in systems administration and networking can earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate System Engineer jobs in California?

For Associate System Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate System Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate System Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate System Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate System Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate System Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Associate Systems Engineer / Systems Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

San Diego, CA • On-site

$76K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is seeking an Associate Systems Engineer / Systems Engineer as an individual contributor within a multi-disciplinary engineering team. Responsibilities include conducting research, writing requirements, developing models, defining interfaces and performing analysis while working within an Integrated Product Team (IPT) structure to drive the development of new program requirements, refine existing program requirements, and influence the pursuit of future technologies and capabilities.
The selected candidate will collaborate across the engineering disciplines and technology areas to integrate and communicate technical capabilities and analyses with internal stakeholders and external customers across Modernization and Sustainment efforts.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Perform requirements development, allocation, verification/validation planning and manage interface definition efforts.
  • Write complex specifications, interface control documents, and engineering reports.
  • Support interface/communication with program, functional and subsystem leads.
  • Maintain Systems Engineering artifacts following proper configuration management procedures.
  • Coordinate with key stakeholders to ensure proper verification and validation of Systems Engineering artifacts
  • Possess strong interpersonal and leadership skills with excellent communications skills to support coordination across IPTs and with external customers.
  • Solicit input from various stakeholders and team members to synthesize data and communicate findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

This position may be filled at either the Associate Systems Engineer (Level 1) OR Systems Engineer (Level 2).
Basic Qualifications:
  • Associate Systems Engineer (Level 1) - Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline AND 0 years of related professional/military experience in Systems Engineering, OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline.
  • Systems Engineer (Level 2) - Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline AND 2 years of related professional/military experience in Systems Engineering, OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline AND 0 years of related professional/military experience in Systems Engineering.
  • Ability to obtain a DOD Secret clearance
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
  • Experience with Python or other scripting language

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with requirements development and verification planning
  • Familiarity with Systems Engineering tools, such as DOORS and Cameo
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
  • Experience with software development
  • Experience with HW/SW integration testing
  • Experience with Agile execution
  • Active DoD Secret or Top Secret Clearance
  • Active/current SAP clearance (any SAP)

Primary Level Salary Range: $62,300.00 - $112,700.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $76,200.00 - $137,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939