1

Associate Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Provides general guidance and assistance to Associate and Level I Engineers * Other duties as ... Aerospace Systems Engineering Experience is preferred * An understanding of Aircraft Terminology is ...

Systems Engineer II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$79K - $120K/yr

Provides general guidance and assistance to Associate and Level I Engineers * Other duties as ... Aerospace Systems Engineering Experience is preferred * An understanding of Aircraft Terminology is ...

Systems Engineer (Level II)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $127K/yr

The Mid-Level Systems Engineer will be a team player responsible for applying interdisciplinary ... We bring associates aboard with the expectation that they be with Boarhog forever. Our first hire ...

Systems Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$84K - $102K/yr

The Systems Engineer will assist in the design, implementation, administration, and troubleshooting ... Generous associate discount of 30-50% off merchandise online and in-stores * Competitive long term ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 4, 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 are Associate Systems Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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:
Infographic showing various Associate Systems Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.
Systems Engineer II

$79K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Worker Type

Regular


Job Description

Summary
The Systems Engineer IIworks with our Design team to develop a variety of innovative Unmanned Systems for defense and commercial applications. This position will interact with Controls Engineers to allocate requirements and develop architectures to drive simulation models. These development efforts will generally be small focused design teams, which will require engineers to use a range of skills and tools across traditional engineering, computer science, and mathematical disciplines. Because of the nature of the development efforts, the engineer will need to work on a variety of stages of development including requirements definition, concept design, prototyping, detailed design, validation and verification testing.

Position Responsibilities

  • Support in the following:
    • Providing weekly Status of System development progress with requirements burn down
    • Allocating Requirements to Subsystems & Engineering coordination
    • Evaluating System performance thresholds and providing direction
    • Developing Instrumented Flight Test vectors and Data acquisition
    • Definition of system Build in Test for Fault Detection, Isolation, Recovery
    • Definition of ground system warnings, cautions, notifications
    • Assist in Requirements and Specification Reviews
    • Prototyping of autonomous systems and validate designs through a series of purpose designed experiments
  • Support design and analysis tasks using AeroVironment and industry developed tools
  • Provide input for model development and simulation analysis
  • Writes system requirements, system test plans, and assist in validation testing
  • Perform a variety of engineering support activities on R&D projects
  • Document work and assist with the transition of new capabilities, technologies and prototypes into a production development environment.
  • Work on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations requires a review of intangibles
  • Apply company policies and procedures to resolve a variety of issues
  • Work within specific requirements to complete tasks under moderate supervision
  • Provides general guidance and assistance to Associate and Level I Engineers
  • Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

  • Bachelors in Mathematics, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • 2 - 5 years of experience in a systems engineering role (Aerospace systems engineering preferred)
  • Familiarity with C/C++ and Matlab required
  • Familiarity with office software and computer-based productivity tools
  • The ideal candidate will be interested in creating Architectures using Model Based Engineering tools

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

  • Knowledge of Simulink, Ansys and Solidworks is preferred
  • Familiarity with Python or ROS (Robot Operating System) and Aircraft Terminology is preferred
  • An understanding of Control Theory and Transform functions helpful
  • Aerospace Systems Engineering Experience is preferred
  • An understanding of Aircraft Terminology is preferred
  • Exposure to Guidance Navigation and Control Systems along with Modeling Simulation and Control and Model-Based Systems Engineering is helpful but not required
  • Ability to develop and enhance professional expertise
  • Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
  • Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
  • Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others and the company. Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Has effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Physical Demands

  • Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Constant)
  • Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)


Clearance Level

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:

$79,037 - $120,531

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

About AV:

AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.

We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next.

If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data,sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR

U.S. Citizenship required