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Associate Systems Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Mission Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Associate Mission Systems Engineer to join our Experimental ...

Associate Mission Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Associate Mission Systems Engineer to join our Experimental ...

Associates degree and 10+ years of experience in a Systems Engineering related field; OR bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cloud Computing, or related field and 8+ years of ...

Associates degree and 10+ years of experience in a Systems Engineering related field; OR bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cloud Computing, or related field and 8+ years of ...

... Associate's degree with an additional four (4) years of relevant technology experience plus the ... Systems engineering with Microsoft, Unix, Linux, and Cisco (IOS) operating systems * Microsoft SCCM ...

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 ...

SR Systems Engineer- SATCOM

Seal Beach, CA

$108K - $148K/yr

Associates degree and 14+ years of experience in a Systems Engineering related field; OR bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cloud Computing, or related field and 12+ years ...

SR Systems Engineer- SATCOM

Seal Beach, CA

$108K - $148K/yr

Associates degree and 14+ years of experience in a Systems Engineering related field; OR bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cloud Computing, or related field and 12+ years ...

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Associate Systems Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$44.5K

$88.7K

$141.7K

How much do associate systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate systems engineer in Irvine, CA is $88,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $102,000.00 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 Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA? For Associate Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Associate Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Associate Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Systems Engineer job openings in Irvine, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,701 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Associate Mission Systems Engineer

Boeing

Seal Beach, CA • On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 610 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Associate Mission Systems Engineer

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing Defense Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Associate Mission Systems Engineer to join ourExperimental Systems Group (ESG)located in Seal Beach, CA; with options to work from El Segundo, CA Aurora, CO or Herndon, VA; to support development of new first-of-kind space vehicles and missions. ESG supports a variety of government customers spanning technology domains, and is an extremely fast-paced, responsive development environment delivering new capabilities to customers rapidly and affordably. The ESG portfolio consists of a range of platforms and technologies including the X-37B, the world's first fully autonomous reusable spaceplane, which is continuing to shape the future of space technology while flying its eighth mission.

As a mission systems engineer, you will be expected to lead modelling and simulation efforts and enable your assigned programs' development from early capabilities studies through demonstration. You will serve as a core point of contact for customers and will work directly with subject matter experts across the business to quickly iterate and converge on achievable solutions that meet our customers' needs. Our development timelines are aggressive and you will be asked to develop solutions to previously unsolved problems.

In this role, you will work in multidisciplinary teams to bring concept of operations to fruition in support of our customers' mission objectives. You will work both as an individual contributor and as a team lead. An ideal candidate has a strong technical background across all spacecraft subsystems with particular depth in Attitude Control Systems (ACS)/Guidance Navigation & Control (GNC), spacecraft operations, or mission modeling as well as a strong system

background spanning both space and ground domains. You will need to be able to dive into broad, minimally defined design spaces and effectively lead integrated efforts.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Support technology integration for and development of first-of-kind space vehicles and missions

  • Develop and present review packages to internal and external senior leadership

  • Work proactively and independently in a fast-paced, demanding atmosphere

  • Develop physics-based mission simulations to inform system trade studies and verify system performance

  • Develop mission flight plans/concepts exploringnew and novelastrodynamics approaches

  • Develop and maintain operational mission planning tools

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

BasicQualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement

  • Active U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, or comparable software language

  • Proficiency developing control algorithms, models, and simulations

  • Familiarity with space environments, mission design, and astrodynamics

  • Experience working with cross-functional teams and external customers

  • Experience in spacecraft, launch vehicles, or highly autonomous unmanned systems

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteriaismet as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also 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, anda number ofprograms 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, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Associate (Level 2) Summary Pay Range: $100,300 - $135,700

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires an active U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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