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Consulting Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$54.93 - $68.66/hr

Systems Engineer Full-time Irvine, CA, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with ... Mentor other engineers and act as a consultant to management on technical and project-related ...

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Senior Systems Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer provides customer-facing consulting services, technical expertise, engineering services, and operational support to clients as part of an account team. This role is the ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

For our w2 consultants, we offer a great benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision ... Lead systems engineering, hardware, and software analysis to support the Navy's Key Management ...

Researches and carries out complex systems engineering assignments that result in the introduction ... Acts as consultant to management on technical and project-related matters. Serves as a functional ...

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Consulting Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$68.6K

$98.9K

$123.9K

How much do consulting systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for consulting systems engineer in California is $98,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a consulting systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Consulting Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, network architecture, and IT infrastructure, typically supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications like CCNP or CCIE. Familiarity with enterprise networking hardware, virtualization platforms, and system integration tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and client management skills set top professionals apart by enabling effective collaboration and tailored solutions. These skills and qualifications are essential for designing robust systems, addressing complex client needs, and ensuring successful project delivery.

What is a consulting systems engineer?

A consulting systems engineer helps design medium- to large-scale technology solutions for businesses. As a consulting systems engineer, your job duties involve product design and delivery and include managing the project, addressing technical issues, and defining the scope of the plan for managers and executives. You monitor implementations and assess whether or not they increase productivity and efficiency. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in a technical field, such as computer science, and a few years of related experience working in a dynamic group environment. Interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask are also essential for this job.

What is a consulting systems engineer?

A Consulting Systems Engineer is a technical expert who works with clients to design, implement, and optimize complex IT systems and solutions. They often act as a bridge between sales teams and technical teams, helping to translate business requirements into technical specifications. Consulting Systems Engineers frequently provide pre-sales support, technical presentations, and solution demonstrations, as well as guidance on best practices for deploying and maintaining systems. Their role may span various industries, including networking, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise software.

How does a consulting systems engineer typically collaborate with sales and technical teams during the pre-sales process?

Consulting Systems Engineers often serve as a vital bridge between sales teams and technical stakeholders, translating customer requirements into practical solutions. During the pre-sales process, they work closely with account managers to understand client business needs, deliver technical presentations, and design tailored product demonstrations. They also collaborate with product specialists and engineers to ensure proposed solutions are feasible and align with the client's IT environment. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to quickly adapt to different industries and technical challenges.

What is the difference between Consulting Systems Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectConsulting Systems EngineerNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically certifications like CCNP, Cisco CCIE, or vendor-specific certifications; bachelor's degree in IT or related fieldCertifications such as CCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+; degree in computer science or related field
Work EnvironmentCustomer-facing roles, consulting projects, pre-sales support, often travelNetwork infrastructure management, troubleshooting, and design within organizations or data centers
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, technology vendors, large enterprisesTelecommunications companies, ISPs, enterprise IT departments

The main difference is that Consulting Systems Engineers focus on client consulting, pre-sales, and solution design, often working across multiple projects and environments. Network Engineers primarily manage and maintain network infrastructure within an organization. Both roles require networking certifications but differ in their scope and work setting.

Do consulting systems engineers make good money?

Consulting Systems Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, certifications, and location. They often receive additional compensation through bonuses and benefits, with salaries generally higher than many other IT roles due to specialized skills in systems design, integration, and client consulting.
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What are popular job titles related to Consulting Systems Engineer jobs in CA? For Consulting Systems Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Consulting Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,937 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

$212K - $318K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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 Mission Systems is looking for a Consulting Systems Engineer to support the Systems Engineering organization in San Diego, CA . This position requires on-site support and will be worked out of the Rancho Carmel location

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced System Engineer with strong hands-on experience in system integration, simulation, and testing.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (including software, hardware, and test engineers) to define, capture, and refine system requirements.
  • Develop robust test plans and verification procedures to validate waveform functionality and performance.
  • Analyze system performance data and implement iterative improvements to meet evolving requirements.
  • Document design specifications, test procedures, and performance results in clear and concise technical documentation.
  • Provide technical guidance and support during all stages of development, from concept through production.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging technologies and industry standards to continuously enhance system capabilities.

This position is contingent upon proposal and task award, Clearance and Customer Approval

Basic Qualifications for Consulting Systems Engineer:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in STEM field with 16 years of experience; 14 years with a master's degree; 12 years with a Ph.D.
  • Proven expertise in creating and refining technical requirements and system specifications.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with software and test engineering teams to translate designs into deployable and verifiable solutions.
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex systems and propose timely, cost-effective solutions.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong aptitude for technical documentation and reporting.
  • System analysis and/or integration and test experience
  • Strong work ethic and the ability to work in an integrated product team (IPT) environment
  • Working knowledge of requirements management software
  • Direct experience with Integration and test
  • Prior experience in defense, aerospace, or telecommunications industries.
  • Must have active Government Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Hands-on experience with software-defined radio (SDR) and digital signal processing (DSP) environments.
  • High proficiency with tools required for communication system and network modeling and simulation
  • Background in communications and commercial and military wireless networking technologies
  • Experience developing and presenting technical documentation and briefings to the customer and organization leadership.
  • Ability to obtain Government Special Program Access (SAP)
Primary Level Salary Range: $212,100.00 - $318,100.00The 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