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Microsystems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer - USA Remote

Raleigh, NC · Remote

$119K - $157K/yr

At Leica Microsystems, we have been shaping the future for over 175 years with groundbreaking ... The Senior Software Engineer is part of a team transforming surgeons' experience from an analog ...

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Microsystems Engineer information

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$10

$47

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How much do microsystems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for microsystems engineer in the United States is $47.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $60.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Microsystems Engineer, you need strong expertise in microfabrication, semiconductor physics, and materials science, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD tools, MEMS simulation software, and cleanroom processes is often required, as well as relevant certifications or hands-on laboratory experience. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise design and manufacturing of microscale devices, enabling innovation and reliability in advanced technology applications.

What is the difference between Microsystems Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectMicrosystems EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microsystems, Electrical, or Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, semiconductor companies, MEMS manufacturingPower plants, electronics manufacturing, design firms
Industry UsageSemiconductor, MEMS, nanotechnologyElectronics, power systems, telecommunications
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Microsystems Engineers focus on designing and developing micro-scale devices like MEMS, often requiring specialized knowledge in microsystems technology. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems and components across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Microsystems Engineers typically work more in research and microfabrication environments, whereas Electrical Engineers may work in power, electronics, or communication sectors.

How much does a micro engineer make?

A Microsystems Engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in semiconductor fabrication or embedded systems may earn higher salaries. Certifications and working in high-demand industries can also influence compensation.

What are Microsystems Engineers?

Microsystems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test miniaturized devices and systems, often at the micro- and nano-scale. Their work involves integrating mechanical, electrical, and sometimes biological components into compact systems, such as sensors, actuators, or microchips. They collaborate across disciplines to create technologies used in electronics, healthcare, automotive, and aerospace industries. Their expertise helps improve the performance and functionality of products by making them smaller, faster, and more efficient.

How does a Microsystems Engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during the development process?

Microsystems Engineers often work closely with professionals from various disciplines, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, materials scientists, and software developers. Collaboration is key throughout the design, prototyping, and testing stages to ensure seamless integration of micro-scale components into larger systems. Regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional problem-solving sessions are common, allowing Microsystems Engineers to contribute their expertise while learning from others. This multidisciplinary environment not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable opportunities for skill development and career growth.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as senior software engineers, aerospace engineers, or certain executive-level engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, or energy.

What does a microsystems engineer do?

A microsystems engineer designs, develops, and tests miniature electronic and mechanical systems, such as sensors, actuators, and integrated circuits. They often work with cleanroom environments, utilize CAD software, and have knowledge of materials science and microfabrication techniques to create small-scale devices used in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Microsystems Engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like RF design or chip fabrication, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often found in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, and defense, where complex systems and cutting-edge technology are involved.
More about Microsystems Engineer jobs
Distinguished Systems Engineer for Embedded Microsystems Architecture and Design

Distinguished Systems Engineer for Embedded Microsystems Architecture and Design

Draper

Cambridge, MA

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The Embedded Microsystems and Sensors Group at Draper is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to develop and manage requirements, architecture, interface documentation, and system specifications for systems in mission domains such as: embedded secure communications, advanced electronics miniaturization, edge processing and computing, trustworthy secure platforms, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.
This role will involve working across a multi-disciplinary team (including external and internal stakeholders) innovating new microelectronics system solutions over the full system development lifecycle.
The group has multidisciplinary proficiencies in secure systems architecture, hardware security and resilience, software security and resilience, system validation and accreditation, sensor development and validation, and cryptography.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities.
Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems.
Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams (greater than 10 people). Aligns team towards program goals and builds trust within the team.
Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Systems Engineering.
Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field
Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth.
Identifies risks common among multiple programs/technology areas/etc. and develops and executes mitigation strategies for them.
Works to improve operations at the enterprise level. Identifies areas for improvement within the organization and uses positive collaboration practices to achieve change.
Actively mentors and seeks opportunities to build depth for their area of expertise. Recognizes strengths and weaknesses in others and gives thoughtful, constructive feedback.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Highly-organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Practical experience with simulation-based performance analysis.
Practical experience with the systems engineering process.
Roles may require proficiency with modeling and simulation, computer language coding, descriptive modeling (e.g. SysML), STPA, and/or other engineering analysis tools
Knowledge of GN&C, avionics architectures, fault tolerance, cyber/security, comms/encryption, threat modeling or other technologies may be required as defined in the summary.
Education
Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field. Masters degree or higher preferred.
Experience
10-15+ years experience as systems engineer or related role.

Additional Job Description:

A successful candidate will be motivated to build deeper expertise in both the core mission domains and underlying microsystems technology. This position will provide exposure to a wide range of advanced technologies (including inertial sensors, imagers, precision electronics, and advanced algorithms) as well as provide growth opportunities in the development of capabilities to address challenges in national security. Additionally, a successful candidate will be able to seamlessly join project teams that collaborate by sharing thoughts and opinions of individuals from a diverse set of experience and viewpoints in order to create the best possible technical solution.

  • Experience maintaining traceability between requirements and system architecture & design work products
  • Technical depth in fields relevant to electronics development, embedded systems, embedded software, or packaging miniaturization such as:
    • Possess a broad understanding of microprocessors, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and real-time software & firmware needed to enable solutions.
    • Have experience with serial digital data interfaces (e.g. SPI, RS422, Ethernet) used to interconnect distributed and modular avionics.
    • Understand power electronics, A/D, D/A, clock and timing electronics that support and interface with the digital electronics.
  • Be able to work with thermal analysis and reliability experts in developing solutions.
  • Expertise in full life-cycle systems engineering (architecture, design, development, integration, approval, and deployment) of security technologies and components within cyber-physical systems and systems-of-systems
  • Strong presentation skills and the ability to articulate complex technical ideas to both internal and external stakeholders
  • Strong set of interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated experience of fostering a culture of inclusion in the workplace
  • Experience in the development of System Security documentation per Government requirements
  • Experience planning and leading Systems Engineering Technical Reviews
  • Experience working with modern data bus / electrical interfaces for flight/space systems
  • Experience in writing innovative R&D proposals to commercial and government sponsors
  • An understanding of the fundamentals of cryptographic key management, public key infrastructure, and NSA's Key Management Infrastructure, and the applications of cryptology
  • Be familiar with the unique aspects of space avionics: environmental testing (MIL-STD-810), radiation hardening, and EMI/EMC considerations (MIL-STD-461).

Applicants selected for this opportunity will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Secret Clearance is preferred.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$100,000.00 - $275,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.