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Senior Systems Engineer Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Interstates

Senior Project Manager - Energy

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

At Interstates, we're continuing to grow our Energy business and are looking for a Senior Project ... Power generation or behind-the-meter energy systems * Construction and engineering coordination

Interstates

Senior Project Manager - Energy

Brainerd, MN · On-site +1

$135K - $160K/yr

At Interstates, we're continuing to grow our Energy business and are looking for a Senior Project ... Power generation or behind-the-meter energy systems * Construction and engineering coordination

MLCV

Hinckley Laundry Sr Maint Engr $33

Onamia, MN · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

The Opportunity As the Senior Maintenance Engineer, you are responsible for overseeing the installation, repair, and maintenance of all building structures, finishes, fixtures, and machines at our ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pillager, MN

$96K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Heartwood

Human Resources Director

Crosby, MN

$100K - $110K/yr

Heartwood is searching for a Human Resources Director to lead the HR function at our senior living ... Onboarding/recruitment/retention oversight. * HRIS/payroll/benefit administration oversight.

Foxfactory

Service Technician

Baxter, MN · On-site

... engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers ... senior managers. * Respond to customer complaints timely and effectively to meet sales goals.

Fox Factory

Service Technician

Baxter, MN · On-site

... engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers ... senior managers. * Respond to customer complaints timely and effectively to meet sales goals.

FOX Factory, Inc.

Service Technician

Baxter, MN · On-site

... engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers ... senior managers. * Respond to customer complaints timely and effectively to meet sales goals.

All JobsSystems Engineer JobsSenior Systems Engineer JobsSenior Systems Engineer Jobs in Brainerd, MN

Senior Systems Engineer information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$54.8K

$122K

$172.2K

How much do senior systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior systems engineer in Brainerd, MN is $122,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,200.00 and $139,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Senior Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy systems and new technologies, minimizing downtime during migrations, and addressing unforeseen security vulnerabilities. Effective integration requires thorough planning, cross-team collaboration, and detailed testing to avoid disruptions to business operations. Staying current with emerging technologies and adopting best practices for change management are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth implementation.

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

To thrive as a Senior Systems Engineer, you need expertise in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and network administration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field and several years of relevant experience. Familiarity with virtualization platforms, cloud services (like AWS or Azure), automation tools (such as Ansible or PowerShell), and certifications like CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco are often required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you lead initiatives and collaborate effectively across teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring system reliability, scalability, and security in complex IT environments.

What is a senior systems engineer?

A senior systems engineer is an IT (information technology) professional tasked with designing and maintaining network systems and security. Examples include large server or storage systems, computer networks, and mainframes. As a systems engineer, your primary duties are to oversee the daily operations of your facility and lead a team of engineers in designing new systems to replace old ones. You may work for a company that provides engineering services and solutions for other businesses, or you may be part of a large university or other institution's IT department. Skills needed for the career include the ability to work independently, leadership, and analytical problem-solving. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or IT and significant experience in a lower systems engineering position are essential qualifications.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Engineer vs Systems Administrator?

AspectSenior Systems EngineerSystems Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certificationsCompTIA A+, Network+, Microsoft certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting complex systemsManaging daily system operations and user support
Industry UsageIT, technology, enterprise environmentsIT support, small to medium businesses

While both roles involve working with IT systems, Senior Systems Engineers focus on designing and implementing complex infrastructure, whereas Systems Administrators handle routine maintenance and user support. The senior role typically requires more advanced certifications and experience, and often involves strategic planning and system architecture.

More about Senior Systems Engineer jobs

What cities near Brainerd, MN are hiring for Senior Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Senior Systems Engineer job openings:

Senior Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Systems Engineer job openings in Brainerd, MN 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 $122,040 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Senior Project Manager - Energy

Interstates

Brainerd, MN • On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Interstates rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Take Charge of Your Career at Interstates
At Interstates, we don't just show up to work, we show up for each other. From our headquarters in Iowa to job sites across the country, we're doing award-winning electrical, controls, automation, and OT work that powers industrial facilities for clients here in the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're bending conduit, wiring panels, writing code, supporting projects, or helping things run behind the scenes, you'll be part of a crew that works hard, shares laughs, and takes pride in doing quality work. We believe in building strong teams, doing the right thing, and making a difference in the communities where we live. If you want to grow and do meaningful work, you'll feel at home here.
We're looking for someone who wants to help build something.
Not just manage projects. Not just maintain client relationships. Build a market.
At Interstates, we're continuing to grow our Energy business and are looking for a Senior Project Manager who wants to play a major role in shaping where it goes next. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in ownership, sees opportunities before others do, and wants to help establish the vision, relationships, and operational foundation for long-term growth.
We're looking for someone who can:
  • Build strong, lasting client relationships
  • Create trust through execution and accountability
  • Help drive growth within the energy market
  • Lead complex industrial energy projects with confidence
  • Influence strategy while staying close to operations
  • Help establish how Interstates shows up in the energy space for years to come

What You'll Do
As a Senior Project Manager - Energy, you'll lead complex industrial and energy-related projects from kickoff through commissioning and closeout.
You'll help:
  • Lead full lifecycle project execution including planning, execution, forecasting, and turnover
  • Manage projects involving power generation systems, SCADA integration, and behind-the-meter energy solutions
  • Coordinate across construction, engineering, OT, and automation teams to keep projects aligned
  • Drive accountability around scope, schedule, budget, and project performance
  • Identify project risks early and proactively solve issues before they escalate
  • Manage client communication, project reporting, and stakeholder alignment
  • Support commissioning, FAT/SAT testing, and operational readiness activities
  • Lead change management efforts including scope adjustments and financial impacts
  • Improve project delivery standards, tools, reporting, and operational processes
  • Mentor project managers and coordinators across teams

This role requires someone who can operate strategically while also staying close to execution details.
What Makes This Role Different
  • You'll help shape the future direction of our Energy business
  • You'll lead highly integrated projects across multiple business units
  • You'll help establish processes, standards, and operational structure as the market grows
  • You'll work directly with clients to build long-term partnerships and trust
  • You'll have visibility across construction, engineering, OT, and operational teams
  • You'll influence process improvement and project delivery standards company-wide
  • You'll be trusted to solve problems, lead people, and drive outcomes

What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who takes ownership, communicates clearly, and performs well in high-accountability environments.
  • 7+ years of project management experience in industrial, automation, infrastructure, or energy-related environments
  • Experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects
  • Strong understanding of project financials, forecasting, scheduling, and resource management
  • Ability to lead across teams and influence without direct authority
  • Strong communication and client relationship skills
  • Comfortable navigating ambiguity, competing priorities, and operational challenges
  • Experience with ERP systems, scheduling tools, and project reporting platforms

Bonus if you have experience with:
  • SCADA systems or industrial automation projects
  • Power generation or behind-the-meter energy systems
  • Construction and engineering coordination
  • Process improvement or operational standardization initiatives
  • PMP certification or equivalent project management credentials

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or related field preferred
  • Equivalent industry experience will also be considered
  • Industrial, manufacturing, energy, automation, or EPC project experience strongly preferred

Location & Travel
This position can be based remotely, with preference toward candidates located near our offices in:
  • Omaha, NE
  • Sioux Center, IA
  • Sioux Falls, SD
  • Fort Collins, CO

Travel is expected approximately 25% of the time based on project and client needs.
Compensation
Expected compensation range for this role is approximately $135,000-$160,000+, based on experience, project background, and overall fit for the role.
Interstates Describes Its Culture as Family-Like
  • Caring co-workers treat each other like family
  • Be treated like an individual, not just a number
  • Flexible schedules support work/life balance
  • Team events, lunches, and social activities
  • Opportunities to give back through community involvement

Our Why
  • Providing opportunities for our people
  • Making a difference with our clients
  • Pursuing a better way

Benefits of Working at Interstates
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan + Company Match
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay
  • Flexible Schedule
  • Bonus Incentives and Merit Increases
  • Career Coaching and Development
  • Advancement Opportunities

If you're looking for a role where you can help shape a growing market, lead meaningful energy projects, and build lasting client partnerships while influencing the future direction of the business - we'd love to connect.
What You Should Know Before You Apply
Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.
Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.

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