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Senior System Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Senior Automation Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

This role serves as a system-level integrator, ensuring mechanical, controls, and process elements ... The Senior Automation Engineer supports projects from early design review through implementation ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Madison, WI

$104K - $137K/yr

This role serves as a system-level integrator, ensuring mechanical, controls, and process elements ... The Senior Automation Engineer supports projects from early design review through implementation ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Madison, WI

$104K - $137K/yr

This role serves as a system-level integrator, ensuring mechanical, controls, and process elements ... The Senior Automation Engineer supports projects from early design review through implementation ...

Senior Research Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$105K - $144K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Research Engineer to join our Research & Innovation team. This role is ... You bring deep expertise in building energy systems and enjoy tackling complex engineering ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI

$101K - $132K/yr

Monitor system performance, drive continuous improvement projects, and communicate technical issues, timelines, and workarounds to stakeholders. Required Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in ...

Senior Software Engineer

Oregon, WI · On-site

$131.25 - $175/hr

We're looking for a Senior Software Engineer who enjoys solving hard problems, writing clean and maintainable code, and building systems that become foundational to how an organization operates. The ...

Senior Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$123K - $162K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer designs, builds, and maintains the technical systems and application infrastructure that power high-quality, human-centered information experiences. This role is ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior System Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$55.8K

$124.3K

$175.4K

How much do senior system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior system engineer in Madison, WI is $124,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $142,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior System Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSenior System EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNABachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like Cisco CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems and infrastructureDesigning, deploying, and managing network infrastructure and security
Industry UsageIT, technology, enterprise environmentsTelecommunications, IT, enterprise networks
Common Search/ComparisonSenior System Engineer vs Network Engineer

While both roles require networking knowledge and certifications, Senior System Engineers focus on overall system architecture and integration, whereas Network Engineers specialize in network infrastructure and security. The roles often overlap but serve different core functions within IT teams.

What is a senior system engineer?

Senior System Engineers are experienced IT professionals responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and maintaining complex computer systems and networks within an organization. They play a critical role in ensuring the stability, security, and scalability of IT infrastructure. Their tasks often include troubleshooting system issues, optimizing performance, overseeing upgrades, and mentoring junior engineers. Senior System Engineers typically collaborate with other IT teams and departments to support business objectives and technological needs.

What are some common challenges faced by senior system engineers when managing large-scale IT infrastructure projects?

Senior System Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with cross-functional teams, ensuring system scalability, and maintaining high availability during upgrades or migrations. Managing complex environments requires balancing security, performance, and compliance, all while minimizing downtime. Effective communication and proactive planning are crucial to successfully navigating these challenges and delivering robust solutions that meet organizational needs.

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

To thrive as a Senior System Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of system architecture, network administration, and troubleshooting, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field and several years of experience. Familiarity with tools like VMware, Linux/Windows servers, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and certifications such as CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you lead teams and handle complex technical challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring system reliability, security, and efficient operation in dynamic IT environments.

How much money does a senior system engineer make?

A senior system engineer typically earns between $90,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have specialized skills in network infrastructure, scripting, and certifications like Cisco or Microsoft, which can influence salary levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Senior System Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Senior System Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior System Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,326 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Systems Engineer - Lighting & Control Systems

ETC

Middleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Ready to build your career with a company that invests in your growth? ETC is looking for a Systems Engineer to join our Lighting Systems Engineering team at our global headquarters in the Middleton, WI office. This is an exciting opportunity to work on impactful projects while collaborating with a team that values innovation, curiosity, and problem-solving.
Our ideal candidate holds a technical Bachelor's degree, preferably in Electrical Engineering, and brings a strong sense of ownership to their work. You are self-motivated, thrive working independently, communicate clearly, and enjoy tackling complex challenges with creative solutions.
At ETC, we believe great work starts with great support. That is why we offer excellent health benefits starting day one, a generous time-off package, and a fun, casual, and relaxed work environment where people genuinely enjoy what they do.
Interested in learning more or ready to apply? Visit www.etcconnect.com/careers to explore this opportunity and take the next step in your career with ETC.
Representative Responsibilities:
  • Performs assigned project tasks under direct supervision of more senior-level engineers
  • Participates in the development effort under the direction of management and more senior team members
  • Makes design modifications or improvements to development projects with supervision
  • Maintains project reference documentation
  • Develops test and verification procedures
  • May be involved in continuing engineering maintenance and manufacturing floor support of existing products
  • Provides task completion time estimates
  • Attends identified training classes
  • Participates as a team member, works effectively in a team environment
  • Becomes familiar with tools and applications utilized by department
  • Learns department and corporate policies, procedures and plans
  • Design and fully test custom products to project specification
  • Generates bills of materials and electricals for non-standard products
  • Informs Manufacturing of the most current project specifications
  • Acts as a custom product resource for customers and ETC employees
  • Provides engineering support to Project Management, Tech Services and Manufacturing
  • Trains internal personnel on the proper use of ETC custom products as required
  • Researches and implements solutions to engineering and/or production issues
  • Assists Systems Engineer II on various tasks
  • Software configuration of ETC and third-party equipment to meet the needs of the project
  • Provide assistance to R&D in development of new product as required
  • Engineers international projects
  • Participates in managing the Application Engineering Helpdesk
  • Assists in Workshop classes if required
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Completes special projects and assignments in a positive and timely manner
  • Travel to job sites as required

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Technical Bachelor's Degree
  • All levels of previous job-related experience will be considered
  • Demonstrates good written/verbal skills
  • Has good grasp of grammar and sentence structure for technical writing
  • Listens/gives constructive feedback
  • Good group interaction skills
  • Ability to follow directions and project plans
  • Demonstrates ability to solve problems of limited scope and perform root cause analysis
  • Analyzes data using standard, straightforward methods
  • Grasps technical concepts and asks for clarification and direction when needed
  • Ability to implement designs for well-defined blocks
  • Understands and applies accepted engineering principles and practices
  • Assists with design or modification of a product, service, or process
  • Knowledge of electrical systems, electrical standards and codes
  • Knowledge of basic electronics
  • Familiar with network topology
  • Basic CAD skills
  • Able to use small hand, power and testing tools