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System Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

Fluid System Design Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a level II, Sr-, or Staff-level Fluid System Design Engineer to support design, integration, testing, and maintenance of Talon-A hypersonic ...

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer (E)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications System Design Engineers are core to KLA's technology, while we do not currently have an opening, we are always building our System ...

Joby Aviation

Electrical System Design Engineer

Concord, CA · On-site

$118K - $205K/yr

Overview Joby is seeking a highly motivated Electrical System Design Engineer who will own the design and construction of electrical and avionic systems for Autonomous Aircraft, located primarily at ...

Joby Aviation

Electrical System Design Engineer

Concord, CA · On-site

$118K - $205K/yr

Overview Joby is seeking a highly motivated Electrical System Design Engineer who will own the design and construction of electrical and avionic systems for Autonomous Aircraft, located primarily at ...

PsiQuantum

Senior System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$121K - $166K/yr

The Senior Systems Design Engineer is a hands-on role which drives and supports design and execution of electro-optic systems. This engineer will work in the System Design team and collaborate cross ...

PsiQuantum

Senior System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$121K - $166K/yr

The Senior Systems Design Engineer is a hands-on role which drives and supports design and execution of electro-optic systems. This engineer will work in the System Design team and collaborate cross ...

PsiQuantum

Senior System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$119K - $163K/yr

The Senior Systems Design Engineer is a hands-on role which drives and supports design and execution of electro-optic systems. This engineer will work in the System Design team and collaborate cross ...

Nvidia

Senior System Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$122K - $167K/yr

Build system hardware products around GPU & Tegra SoC. * Collaborate with cross-function team to ... Improve the design flow together with the infrastructure team. What We Need to See: * B.S or M.S ...

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All JobsSystem Design Engineer JobsSystem Design Engineer Jobs in California

System Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$117K

$171.2K

How much do system design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for system design engineer in California is $117,037.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a System Design Engineer?

A System Design Engineer is a professional responsible for creating and overseeing the architecture and integration of complex systems, often combining hardware, software, and network components. They work on the conceptualization, design, and implementation phases to ensure that all parts of a system function together effectively. Their duties typically include requirements analysis, system modeling, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver reliable and scalable solutions. System Design Engineers are crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and telecommunications. Their work ensures that products and systems meet technical specifications and user needs.

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

To thrive as a System Design Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as a BS or MS in engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (e.g., INCOSE) are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. Mastering these skills ensures that complex systems are designed efficiently, meet client requirements, and integrate seamlessly within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by System Design Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

System Design Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, managing unforeseen technical constraints, and balancing performance with cost. Effective communication with cross-functional teams is essential to align requirements and mitigate risks early in the design process. Adaptability and thorough testing are key to overcoming integration issues and delivering robust, scalable solutions.
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What cities in California are hiring for System Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most System Design Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to System Design Engineer jobs in CA? For System Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Design Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,037 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
Fluid System Design Engineer

Fluid System Design Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a level II, Sr-, or Staff-level Fluid System Design Engineer to support design, integration, testing, and maintenance of Talon-A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience. This position will include evaluation of a broad range of technical data.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Contribute to the development, build, and test of propulsion flight and ground hardware
  • Perform structural, fluid, and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies
  • Create component and assembly drawings for flight and ground test hardware
  • Create and maintain work instructions to install flight hardware onto vehicles
  • Assist mechanics in integrating all components and assemblies onto the aircraft and/or ground systems
  • Order materials and components, as required
  • Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing
  • Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking
  • Maintain inventory tracking of critical propulsion components
  • Manage supplier relations with key vendors
  • Technical ownership of clean rooms
  • Manage engineering release schedule in conjunction with shop planning
  • Track vehicle propulsion configuration
  • Review and release drawings, work instructions, analysis reports, etc.
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Lead
  • Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, mechanical design, structural engineering, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience
  • Experience with fluid-mechanical component design and stress analysis
  • Experience with 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies
  • Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
  • Ability to work on their own initiative
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions
  • Experience leading a team of engineers
  • Knowledge of oxygen systems and oxygen cleanliness
  • Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer Skills:
  • Computer Aided Design tools
  • MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer Skills:
  • Computer Aided Design tools - Solidworks
  • Programming - Matlab or Python
  • Familiarity with configuration management systems - Jira (preferred)
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Level II ($101,000-$146,500): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Sr-level ($120,500-158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Staff-level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • Position based in Mojave, CA
  • Travel, as needed, to support the department; travel estimated to be <5%

#LI-onsite
#LI-AM1
Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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