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Associate Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

$80K - $149K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Associate, Systems Engineering Job Code: 42102 Job Location: Onsite at our Canoga ... We are currently seeking a Specialist Systems Engineer to join our team, focused on specifying ...

Denken Solutions, Inc.

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$93.70/hr

End to End Systems Engineer. * Onsite in Foster City, CA | 5 days in office. * The End-to-End (E2E ... All our associates working with us are expected to embrace our RACE values: R - Results Matter, A ...

Arete Associates

Systems Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

The Systems Engineer will execute multiple aspects of the systems engineering discipline, to include requirements decomposition into software/hardware functions, system performance analysis and trade ...

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All JobsAssociate Systems Engineer JobsAssociate Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Associate Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate systems 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 is an associate systems engineer?

Associate Systems Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems and networks for organizations. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to troubleshoot technical issues, configure hardware and software, and ensure systems run efficiently. These engineers also help with system upgrades, security protocols, and documentation. Their role is vital in supporting IT infrastructure and ensuring smooth technology operations.

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

To thrive as an Associate Systems 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 system administration tools, scripting languages, and certifications like CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco enhances technical proficiency. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure you can efficiently support system infrastructure, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with teams to maintain reliable IT operations.

What is the difference between Associate Systems Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectAssociate Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree; often more certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, support rolesMore complex projects, system design, implementation
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, IT departmentsUsed across industries for system design and maintenance
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level roles, career progressionAdvanced roles, technical expertise

The main difference between an Associate Systems Engineer and a Systems Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Associate Systems Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on support and learning, while Systems Engineers handle more complex system design and implementation tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Systems Engineers usually have more experience and certifications, enabling them to manage advanced projects.

What opportunities for career growth are typically available for an associate systems engineer?

As an Associate Systems Engineer, you'll gain hands-on experience with system configurations, troubleshooting, and working closely with senior engineers. Over time, this foundational role often leads to advancement opportunities such as Systems Engineer, Senior Systems Engineer, or specialized paths in network, cloud, or security engineering. Many organizations provide mentorship, training, and certification support to help you expand your technical expertise and take on greater responsibilities. Proactive learning and collaboration within your team can significantly accelerate your career trajectory in this field.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Associate Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Associate Systems Engineer

Systems Planning and Analysis

San Diego, CA

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

SPA's Sea Land Air (SLA) Division supports a diverse portfolio of national security government clients, including the Undersea Enterprise, the Navy Surface Community, the Navy MPTE Enterprise, the Air Force, Army, DoW Agencies, DARPA, international clients including the Canadian Navy and Australian Defence Force.  Our primary objective is to provide timely, objective and analytic assessments that integrate the policy, operational, technical, programmatic and acquisition aspects of our clients' challenges.

Leveraging both in-domain and cross-domain expertise to maximize our clients' success, SLA Division acts as trusted agents to senior decision-makers and key leaders and excels at providing data driven analytic insights, systems engineering, strategies and plans that address current and emerging challenges to national security.

SPA's Operations Research and C5ISR Analysis (ORCA) Group develops and employs simulation system products in support of operations, experimentation, and the acquisition analysis process. ORCA analysts and engineers apply Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE) principles and use commercial and proprietary modeling and simulation tools to evaluate warfighting effectiveness and provide recommendations for investments to solve real-world problems. Candidates must be able to work independently and as part of a team; training will be provided. #KS

Responsibilities

The ORCA group is seeking a talented Associate Systems Engineer to join our growing team. The successful candidate will participate in project teams to:

  • Assist in the analysis of the performance of DoW programs and systems.
  • Conduct data collection and specification reviews.
  • Assist in the design and develop system-of-systems models using commercial and proprietary MBSE tools and execute modeling and simulation analysis.
  • Perform post-processing data analysis and interpretation.
  • Assist in the preparation of deliverables to include presentations and written reports of findings and recommendations.
  • Participate in customer meetings and briefings.
Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's level degree in an Engineering discipline from an accredited university
  • Ability to work full-time on-site in San Diego, CA at SPA and Client sites
  • 0 to 3 years professional experience
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoW Top Secret clearance with SCI access

Desired:

  • Data analysis experience using modeling and simulation (M&S) tools via academia, industry, government, or military service
  • Ability to demonstrate effective written and verbal communication and presentation skills; a short technical presentation will be part of the interview process
  • Ability to be collaborate within and across project teams
  • Ability to develop and apply logical and methodical analytic approaches to problem solving
  • Familiarity or experience with commercial MBSE tools (e.g. Cameo, MagicDraw, Sparks EA)
  • Active DoW Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. California, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $75,000.00/Yr. - USD $90,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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