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Surveillance Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security Systems Engineer

Boise, ID · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Robert Half Technology is seeking a Security Systems Engineer to support and maintain physical ... Maintain and troubleshoot Video Surveillance Systems (VSS), cameras, recording platforms, and ...

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Surveillance Systems Engineer information

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$50K

$89.5K

$161K

How much do surveillance systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for surveillance systems engineer in the United States is $89,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior surveillance systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in network security, system integration, and project management can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries or leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires years of specialized work, strong technical skills, and sometimes managerial responsibilities.

What are the typical challenges faced by Surveillance Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing security infrastructures?

Surveillance Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new and legacy hardware, maintaining uninterrupted system operation during upgrades, and addressing cybersecurity concerns when integrating advanced technologies. Successful integration requires close collaboration with IT, security, and facilities teams to plan and test deployments, minimizing downtime and disruptions. Staying current with industry standards and proactively addressing potential vulnerabilities are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Surveillance Systems Engineer vs Security Systems Technician?

AspectSurveillance Systems EngineerSecurity Systems Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications like CCDP or CCNPTechnical diploma or certification in security systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and integration of surveillance systems in various settingsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of security hardware
Employer & IndustryTech firms, security companies, government agenciesSecurity service providers, installation companies

Surveillance Systems Engineers focus on designing and developing surveillance solutions, requiring advanced technical skills and certifications. Security Systems Technicians handle installation and maintenance, often with hands-on technical training. Both roles are essential in security infrastructure but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a Surveillance Systems Engineer do?

A Surveillance Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting surveillance and security camera systems. They work with various technologies such as CCTV, IP cameras, video management software, and network infrastructure. Their role often involves assessing security needs, recommending appropriate solutions, and ensuring optimal system performance. These engineers may also provide technical support, conduct system upgrades, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

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

To thrive as a Surveillance Systems Engineer, you need expertise in electronic engineering, networking, and video surveillance technologies, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications such as CCNA or CompTIA Network+. Familiarity with CCTV systems, video management software (VMS), IP networking, and integration tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the design, deployment, and maintenance of reliable surveillance solutions that meet security requirements and client expectations.

What engineers make 300,000 a year?

Senior surveillance systems engineers or cybersecurity engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require expertise in network security, system design, and the use of advanced tools, typically within large organizations or government agencies.

What does a surveillance engineer do?

A surveillance systems engineer designs, installs, and maintains security camera and monitoring systems for various environments. They analyze system requirements, configure hardware and software, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure reliable operation. Knowledge of networking, security protocols, and relevant certifications are often important in this role.

Will AI replace system engineers?

Surveillance Systems Engineers design, install, and maintain security and monitoring systems, often requiring technical expertise and problem-solving skills. While AI can automate certain tasks like data analysis and system monitoring, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human engineers who handle complex troubleshooting, system integration, and customization. AI tools are expected to augment rather than replace the role of system engineers in the foreseeable future.
Who are the top companies hiring for Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs? For Surveillance Systems Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Surveillance Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,500 per year, or $43 per hour.
Maritime Surveillance LFA/CLFA System Design and Operations Analyst

Maritime Surveillance LFA/CLFA System Design and Operations Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

Laurel, MD

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 57 rated research


Job description

Description

Are you looking to be on the cutting edge of new and innovative ways to deploy active sonar capabilities within the Maritime Surveillance domain?

Are you passionate about working with groundbreaking, next-generation technologies?

Do you want to make significant contributions to improve essential U. S. Naval capabilities through test and evaluation, and operations analysis?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join us at APL.

We are seeking a dynamic, creative, and analytical candidate to help us assess the design and influence the capability development of the U.S. Navy's Maritime Surveillance Systems (MSS) Low Frequency Active (LFA), Compact LFA (CLFA), and prototype Deployable Active Systems. We are looking to push the boundaries of system capabilities by providing critical support to the U.S. Navy's Advanced Development, integration and testing community. Your contributions will help us transform data into knowledge, enabling decision makers to make informed choices on the future direction of the Navy's surveillance-based mission systems. You will join a hardworking and expert team of engineers, subject matter experts and software developers in an environment that values creativity and innovation.

As a Maritime Surveillance Systems Engineer/Analyst, you will...

  • Work with system developers and analysis team members to conduct lab-based and at-sea assessment of functional and operational Maritime Surveillance Systems CLFA, LFA and prototype Deployable Active Systems capabilities.
  • Ensure test scope, analysis methodology, appropriate measures of performance and data required to execute analysis are comprehensive.
  • Apply surveillance domain experience to develop new system display concepts, capabilities, and functions to improve system performance.
  • Research, investigate, and experiment with next-generation technologies and look for creative applications in unconventional ways.
  • Apply systems engineering expertise in support of future MSS LFA, CLFA and prototype Deployable Active Systems requirements and capability development to inform impending development direction.
  • Coordinate with analysts to contribute to evaluation of fielded MSS LFA, CLFA and prototype Deployable Active Systems.
  • Liaise between JHU/APL, acquisition sponsors and fleet operational commands to inform future development decision-making and optimize operational utility and MSS LFA, CLFA and prototype Deployable Active Systems employment.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for this position if you...

  • Have earned a US Navy designator, billet classification, or enlisted classification code related to surveillance systems and/or active sonar, or have a B.S. in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related technical field.
  • Have 8+ years of relevant experience with sonar system operations, training, development, testing or similar.
  • Are passionate about applying operational experience and analytical skills in an innovative environment.
  • Have strong interpersonal skills, are skilled at developing relationships across organizational teams and have excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Are proficient at multi-tasking, prioritizing assignments, communicating progress and meeting deadlines.
  • Have participated in system test, delivery, and integration tests at sponsor or operational navy sites.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...

  • Possess a MS degree in Mathematics, Science, or Engineering or equivalent surveillance qualifications.
  • Experience with US Navy developmental and operational test and evaluation.
  • A strong background or previous experience in acoustics analysis.
  • Experience operating active sonar systems or supporting their development.
  • 15+ years of operational experience in the Integrated Undersea Surveillance Systems.
  • Experience conducting reconstruction and analysis of operational data.
  • Led system design, integration and/or test events at sponsor or operational navy sites. 
  • Previous experience with evaluation of U.S. Navy surveillance systems performance.
  • Have an active TS or higher level clearance.

#LI-AG1


About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually