ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Data Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Matter Intelligence

Senior Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$111K - $152K/yr

You will lead mission systems engineering, orchestrate subsystem integration, maintain the ... Ensure the spacecraft, payload, launch vehicle, ground segment, and data systems meet mission ...

Stratolaunch

Systems Engineer

Mojave, CA

Collaborates with the systems engineering, test team responsible engineers, and program leadership ... Architects and optimizes data review methodology, as well as data review and data analysis tools

Giant Magellan Telescope

Systems Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Systems Engineer Element: Systems Engineering Manager: Lead Systems Engineer Type: Full-Time ... Previous experience of Product Data Management systems to manage documentation and maintain ...

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

We need systems engineers who are capable of internalizing the nuances of each deployment and ... Familiarity with Tactical Data Links (TDL), Link 16, including design, integration, and test

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

We need systems engineers who are capable of internalizing the nuances of each deployment and ... Familiarity with Tactical Data Links (TDL), Link 16, including design, integration, and test

ISPA Technology

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA

Systems Engineer Location: San Diego, CA Clearance : Secret ISPA Technology is seeking a Systems ... Extract, analyze, and report technical, programmatic, and financial data to support enterprise ...

Next Step Systems

Senior Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Los Angeles CA Jobs, Senior Systems Engineer, vSAN, NetApp, VAST Data, Microsoft Server, VMware, TCP/IP, DNS, Active Directory, ESXi, vCenter, Infrastructure, Networking, Storage, Cloud, Storage Area ...

Next Step Systems

Senior Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Los Angeles CA Jobs, Senior Systems Engineer, vSAN, NetApp, VAST Data, Microsoft Server, VmWare, TCP/IP, DNS, Active Directory, ESXi, vCenter, Infrastructure, Networking, Storage, Cloud, Storage Area ...

Stratolaunch

Systems Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology ... Collaborates with the systems engineering, test team responsible engineers, and program leadership ...

Stratolaunch

Systems Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. ... We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$54.93 - $68.66/hr

Systems Engineer Full-time Irvine, CA, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with ... Practical experience with model-based tools (e.g., Cameo) and specialized data analysis/engineering ...

Mercury Systems

Systems Engineer II

Cypress, CA · On-site

Experience executing System Engineering activities such as translating stakeholder needs ... From silicon to system scale, Mercury enables customers to accelerate innovation and turn data into ...

Teledyne

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

We're looking for a Systems Engineer who wants to make a real impact-someone who thrives on solving ... Design aircraft data management technologies encompassing embedded databases and digital ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

We're looking for a Systems Engineer who wants to make a real impact-someone who thrives on solving ... Design aircraft data management technologies encompassing embedded databases and digital ...

GALT

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

The candidate will focus on command and control and Tactical Data Link (TDL) systems. The qualified ... Engineering group and customers for new requirements and approaches to meet them o Oversee and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsData Systems Engineer JobsData Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Data Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do data systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for data systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Data Systems Engineers face when integrating new data sources?

Data Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring data compatibility across diverse formats, maintaining data integrity during migration, and managing system performance while integrating new sources. Collaborating closely with data analysts, software developers, and database administrators is key to anticipating and addressing these issues. Successful integration frequently requires thorough testing, robust error handling, and establishing clear data governance protocols to prevent inconsistencies or data loss.

What are Data Systems Engineers?

Data Systems Engineers are professionals who design, build, and maintain the infrastructure and systems that manage and process large volumes of data within an organization. They ensure data flows efficiently between databases, applications, and users, often working with technologies such as databases, data warehouses, and cloud platforms. Their responsibilities include optimizing data pipelines, ensuring data security, and supporting analytics and business intelligence initiatives. Data Systems Engineers collaborate closely with data scientists, software engineers, and IT teams to create reliable, scalable, and secure data environments.

What does a data systems engineer do?

A data systems engineer designs, develops, and maintains the infrastructure for storing, processing, and analyzing large data sets. They work with database systems, data pipelines, and cloud platforms, often using tools like SQL, Python, and Hadoop to ensure data availability, security, and performance. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of data architecture are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Data Systems Engineer, you need strong skills in data architecture, database management, and programming, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like SQL, Python, Hadoop, and cloud platforms, as well as certifications such as AWS Certified Data Analytics or Google Professional Data Engineer, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, collaboration, and analytical thinking help you design robust, scalable data solutions and communicate effectively with stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring data integrity, optimizing system performance, and supporting organizational decision-making.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior data systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in database management, cloud platforms, and programming can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large tech companies. Achieving this level often requires specialized certifications, leadership roles, and a strong track record of project success.

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

AspectData Systems EngineerData Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS, certifications like AWS, AzureBachelor's in CS, certifications like AWS, Azure
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining data infrastructure, systems integrationBuilding data pipelines, ETL processes, data storage solutions
Industry UsageIT, tech companies, large enterprisesTech, finance, healthcare, any data-driven industry

Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, often working in data infrastructure environments. Data Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining data systems, while Data Engineers primarily build and optimize data pipelines. The roles are complementary and often overlap in organizations managing complex data architectures.

Is AI replacing data engineers?

AI is automating certain tasks within data engineering, such as data cleaning and pipeline management, but it does not replace the need for data engineers. Data engineers are essential for designing, building, and maintaining complex data systems, and their expertise in tools like SQL, Python, and cloud platforms remains critical for managing data workflows and ensuring data quality.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior data systems engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cloud platforms, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large organizations, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Data Systems Engineer jobs in California? For Data Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Systems Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Data Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
Data Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Systems Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer

Matter Intelligence

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$111K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Matter Intelligence
Welcome to Matter, where we are building the future of vision AI: pairing a world-first sensor that sees molecular chemistry, temperature, and 3D shape with a Large World Model that will be the most powerful intelligence engine for our physical world. This system doesn't just see what something looks like; it understands everything from a single pixel. We call this Superintelligent Vision.
You'll join a team that has delivered technologies to Mars for NASA/JPL, co-founded and led infrastructure for OpenAI, designed cutting-edge sensors for U.S. Defense, and invented core algorithms for spectral and 3D imaging. We've come together to build the next infrastructure for vision and intelligence in the physical world.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer to own the end-to-end technical architecture, integration, and mission assurance of a complete remote-sensing space system. This role is the technical authority ensuring all mission elements-from payload through spacecraft, launch, ground, and operations-come together coherently to deliver transformative Earth-observation capability.
You will lead mission systems engineering, orchestrate subsystem integration, maintain the technical baseline, drive major design and verification decisions, and guide the engineering team across the full lifecycle. Your work will directly shape mission feasibility, performance, and long-term operational success.
Key Responsibilities
Mission Architecture & Systems Leadership
  • Serve as the top technical authority for an integrated remote-sensing space mission.
  • Define and maintain mission architecture, technical baseline, and system-of-systems design from concept through operations.
  • Lead mission-level trade studies, performance modeling, and system analyses (SNR/radiometric budgets, pointing/jitter, downlink/data budgets, etc.).
  • Establish mission-level CONOPS for deployment, commissioning, calibration, tasking, autonomous ops, and contingencies.
  • Ensure the spacecraft, payload, launch vehicle, ground segment, and data systems meet mission requirements.

Requirements, Budgets & Interface Management
  • Own requirements definition, flowdown, allocation, and verification across all mission elements.
  • Develop and manage system budgets (power, mass, thermal, pointing, link, data volume, reliability, etc.).
  • Define and validate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) across payload, spacecraft, ground, and external partners.
  • Coordinate closely with subsystem leads to ensure alignment and uncover cross-system issues early.

Integration, Test & Verification (IV&V)
  • Lead spacecraft and payload integration planning with a focus on clean, testable interfaces.
  • Develop system-level V&V plans including simulation, hardware testing, environmental qualification, and operational validation.
  • Oversee payload, spacecraft, and ground system integration and test operations.
  • Drive anomaly resolution with rigor, ensuring root-cause closure and prevention of recurrence.

Operations Integration
  • Collaborate with mission operations engineers to define autonomy, tasking, data handling, and commissioning procedures.
  • Ensure the mission design supports operational automation, low-latency data flows, and robust health & safety monitoring.
  • Lead and support Mission Readiness Rehearsals.

Team Leadership
  • Identify mission-level risks early, propose mitigations, and guide engineering execution.
  • Partner with program management to align technical progress with schedule, budget, and customer needs.
  • Communicate technical decisions clearly to leadership, partners, and external stakeholders.
  • Mentor junior engineers to grow high-functioning mission-systems capability.

What Success Looks Like
  • A coherent mission architecture enabling performance, schedule, and cost targets.
  • Clean, well-defined interfaces across payload, spacecraft, ground, and operations.
  • Technical risks are understood and mitigated before they threaten mission success.
  • A coordinated engineering team executing confidently across disciplines.
  • A remote-sensing system that delivers high-quality data on orbit.
Strategy & Leadership
  • Applies first-principles thinking to preserve agility while ensuring engineering rigor.
  • Operates with high integrity, intelligence, and energy.
  • Intuitively understands how architecture choices propagate across subsystems.
  • Brings clarity and decisiveness to complex engineering decisions.
Engineering & Product Excellence
  • Acts as a systems-level thinker with deep technical credibility.
  • Engages cross-functionally with optics, spacecraft engineering, ground systems, and AI teams.
  • Ensures mission-level performance is validated through modeling, testing, and real-world operations.
Operational Excellence
  • Anticipates integration, testing, and operations bottlenecks and resolves them early.
  • Maintains disciplined documentation and configuration control.
  • Embeds reliability, testability, and operational readiness into mission design.
Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.
  • 12+ years in spacecraft or remote-sensing systems engineering
  • Demonstrated leadership on multi-disciplinary spacecraft or payload development programs.
  • Deep understanding of spacecraft subsystems (GN&C, power, thermal, avionics, comms, propulsion, data handling).
  • Proven experience with systems architecture, requirements flowdown, modeling, and interface management.
  • Hands-on experience with integration & test, design verification, and environmental qualification.
  • Experience with on-orbit operations, commissioning, or anomaly resolution.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership skills.

Preferred
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field.
  • Experience building or operating EO/IR, hyperspectral, SAR, or other remote-sensing missions.
  • Familiarity with simulation environments (Python/MATLAB) or mission modeling tools.
  • Experience in rapid development or startup environments.
  • Experience contributing to technical proposals (NASA, DoD, SBIR, commercial).

Location
This role is based in El Segundo, CA, with onsite presence required (temporary remote flexibility may be considered). Ability to travel to San Francisco Bay Area or El Segundo offices as needed.
ITAR Requirements
To comply with U.S. export regulations, applicants must be one of the following:
  • A U.S. citizen or national
  • A lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
  • Eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State

Employee Offerings & Benefits
At Matter, we believe in rewarding high performance and providing the support you need to thrive. Our compensation and benefits package includes:
  • Compensation: Competitive total package based on experience.
  • Equity: Early-stage equity package so you share directly in Matter's growth and success.
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Growth: Opportunities to expand into leadership, strategic accounts, or cross-functional roles as we scale.

Who You Are
You are a mission-driven technical leader who thrives at the intersection of engineering complexity, high-stakes decisions, and building real hardware that flies. You think holistically, communicate clearly, and elevate the entire engineering team around you.

Apply