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System Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Design Engineer

Dublin, CA · On-site

$117K - $161K/yr

Senior Systems Design Engineer Location: Dublin, CA (Onsite) Key Requirements: * Advanced degree in ... Strong background in system design, integration, verification & validation * Preferably with ...

IP Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

IP Design Engineer Work Location: 100% Remote Interview: Via MS Teams Client is looking for someone ... Integrate third-party IP cores into FPGA systems, create custom RTL wrappers, and interface with IP ...

... Systems Design Engineer will be part of a dynamic, fast pace team developing some of the most challenging laser sources. This is an experimentalist role with experience in designing and building ...

Systems Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... Systems Design Engineer will be part of a dynamic, fast pace team developing some of the most challenging laser sources. This is an experimentalist role with experience in designing and building ...

Systems Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... Systems Design Engineer will be part of a dynamic, fast pace team developing some of the most challenging laser sources. This is an experimentalist role with experience in designing and building ...

Regional Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Design Engineer acts as a technical contributor and client advocate, balancing security ... Design physical security solutions, including product selection and system application, under ...

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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.
What job categories do people searching System Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for System Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for System Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most System Design Engineer job openings:
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.
Hardware System Design Engineer, Retail and Event Product Design

Hardware System Design Engineer, Retail and Event Product Design

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Will you help us design the next generation of Apple products that integrate innovative technologies and provides excellent customer experience and seamless user interaction? Our team has developed and shipped a long list of products and merchandisers within retail space across the world. This includes specially designed MagSafe chargers and USB-C cables, security products, charging infrastructures and more...Apple is seeking a Hardware System Design Engineer for Retail and Event Product Design. We are searching for a driven and hardworking electrical engineer to work on electrical system design and develop hardware solutions for Apple product merchandisers. The successful candidate will join a detail-oriented team who works towards perfection and specialized in providing the best possible customer experience with newly announced products.
You will become part of a hands-on development team that nurtures engineering excellence and creativity. On the team you will engage with a rewarding variety of responsibilities.
Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field plus 5+ years of relevant industry experienceStrong Electrical Engineering fundamentals with experience in prototyping, hardware bring-up, bench instrumentation and validationExperience in detailed EE design, EE schematics entry and layoutExperience with digital hardware design such as micro-controllers and digital interfacesExperienced with HW and FW integration, specially USB-C, PD controllers and MicroPython Advanced Hands-On Lab & Debugging Skills
Master's or PhD degreeExperience with USB, UART, I2C, SPI, JTAG, etc.Experience with high volume consumer products and manufacturing processSystem HW product design experience working with cross functional partners - EMC, de-sense and coexistenceElectrical system leadership or management experienceProven track record of working in fast paced innovative work environment.Strong analytical/problem solving skills and ability to guide critical decisions Strong communication skills and outstanding ability to work well cross-functionally.

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976