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System Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Design Engineer

Dublin, CA ยท 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 ยท 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 30, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, systems, or electrical engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in technology companies or executive positions.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

System Design Engineers can start their careers at any age, as the role values skills, experience, and continuous learning. Many engineers transition into the field later in life, often bringing valuable perspectives and expertise. Age is generally not a barrier if you have relevant technical skills and a strong understanding of system architecture and design tools.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, systems, and hardware engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in technology and finance sectors.

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 does a System Design engineer do?

A System Design Engineer develops and plans complex systems by analyzing requirements, creating architecture diagrams, and selecting appropriate components. They often use modeling tools and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system functionality, reliability, and efficiency throughout the design process.
What cities in California are hiring for System Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most System Design Engineer job openings:
Senior System Design Engineer

Senior System Design Engineer

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข On-site

$122K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Build system hardware products around GPU and Tegra SoC.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to balance product cost, performance, and schedule under architect guidance.

  • Drive initial test and bringup, lead debug efforts, create schematics, supervise PCB layout and system validation, and handle documentation for product release.


Job description

What You'll be Doing:
  • Build system hardware products around GPU & Tegra SoC.
  • Collaborate with cross-function team to pursue the balance of product cost, performance, and schedule under the guidance of system architects and product architects.
  • Drive initial test and bringup, lead the debug efforts.
  • Create schematic, supervise PCB layout and system validation.
  • Handle documentation required to release the product to manufactures and partners.
  • Optimize/invent circuits, functions for better performance, and lower cost.
  • Improve the design flow together with the infrastructure team.

What We Need to See:
  • B.S or M.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
  • 3+ years of proven experience.
  • Have strong analytical skills including past experience in PCB design and review.
  • Experience with using lab tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers.
  • Possess a nurtured knowledge of Linux, and be very comfortable working in various Linux environments as well as with Windows OS's
  • Strong verbal and written skills.

NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working with us. If you're creative and autonomous, we want to hear from you!
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 136,000 USD - 212,750 USD.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until January 20, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993