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System Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Instructional System Designer

Petaluma, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The Instructional Systems Designer will work with subject matter experts, trainers, and stakeholders to design, develop, implement, and evaluate effective learning solutions for the US Coast Guard.

We are looking for a digital-hardware system-designer to join our System-Architecture team. You will work in a multi-technology environment and will contribute to shaping and defining the digital ...

Senior Systems Designer

Fresno, CA

$97K - $103K/yr

The Senior Systems Designer II, will assume a leadership role within our dynamic design team, bringing extensive experience and advanced expertise to the forefront of our electrical projects. In this ...

Senior Systems Designer

Fresno, CA

$97K - $103K/yr

The Senior Systems Designer II, will assume a leadership role within our dynamic design team, bringing extensive experience and advanced expertise to the forefront of our electrical projects. In this ...

Senior Systems Designer

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$78K - $122K/yr

The Senior Systems Designer II, will assume a leadership role within our dynamic design team, bringing extensive experience and advanced expertise to the forefront of our electrical projects. In this ...

Staff Product Designer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$250K - $313K/yr

We care about your systems thinking, and your track record of shipping - not your degree ... Designers own problems end to end and bring their own work to life: you'll prototype with AI tools ...

Position Overview The Plumbing Designer is responsible for developing detailed plumbing system layouts and construction drawings for residential, multifamily, and commercial building projects. This ...

We are seeking skilled DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) Designers and Senior Designers to join our team. In this role, you will design and generate DAS/ERRCS/low-voltage RF system drawings, perform ...

We are seeking skilled DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) Designers and Senior Designers to join our team. In this role, you will design and generate DAS/ERRCS/low-voltage RF system drawings, perform ...

We are seeking skilled DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) Designers and Senior Designers to join our team. In this role, you will design and generate DAS/ERRCS/low-voltage RF system drawings, perform ...

We are seeking skilled DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) Designers and Senior Designers to join our team. In this role, you will design and generate DAS/ERRCS/low-voltage RF system drawings, perform ...

We are seeking skilled DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) Designers and Senior Designers to join our team. In this role, you will design and generate DAS/ERRCS/low-voltage RF system drawings, perform ...

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System Designer information

See California salary details

$69.6K

$94K

$115.5K

How much do system designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for system designer in California is $94,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,900.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a System Designer do?

A System Designer is responsible for planning, creating, and specifying the architecture and components of complex systems, often in the fields of IT, engineering, or software development. They analyze requirements, design system structures, and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure the final product meets both technical and business needs. Their work includes creating diagrams, documentation, and models to guide the development team. System Designers play a crucial role in ensuring that systems are efficient, scalable, and reliable.

What is the salary of a System Designer?

The salary of a System Designer typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in system architecture and design tools may earn higher compensation.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in specialized fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes executive or leadership responsibilities.

What is the role of a System Designer?

A System Designer is responsible for creating and planning the architecture of complex systems, including hardware, software, and network components. They analyze requirements, develop design specifications, and collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to ensure the system functions efficiently and meets project goals. Proficiency in modeling tools and understanding of system integration are essential skills for this role.

What does a System Design do?

A System Designer is responsible for creating the architecture and structure of complex software or hardware systems, ensuring they meet functional and performance requirements. They analyze user needs, develop system specifications, and collaborate with engineers and developers using tools like UML diagrams and modeling techniques. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of system components are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a System Designer, you need strong analytical skills, a background in computer science or engineering, and experience with system architecture and requirements analysis. Familiarity with modeling tools like UML, CASE tools, and knowledge of software development methodologies are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help System Designers effectively translate complex requirements into practical solutions. These skills are crucial for creating robust, scalable systems that meet organizational needs and ensure project success.

What are some common challenges System Designers face when working on complex projects?

System Designers often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration between various subsystems, effectively communicating requirements to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, and managing changing project specifications. Balancing performance, scalability, and security needs while staying within budget and time constraints can also be demanding. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, adaptability, and proactive collaboration with cross-functional teams throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between System Designer vs Software Engineer?

AspectSystem DesignerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; often certifications in system architectureBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; certifications in programming or development
Work EnvironmentDesigning system architecture, collaborating with stakeholders, planning infrastructureWriting, testing, and maintaining code; implementing features based on designs
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, system integrators, consulting firmsSoftware development firms, tech startups, IT departments

While both roles require a strong technical background, System Designers focus on planning and structuring entire systems, whereas Software Engineers implement and develop software components based on those designs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What job categories do people searching System Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for System Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for System Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most System Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various System Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,029 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Instructional System Designer

Mayvin, Inc

Petaluma, CA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Mayvin is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Instructional Systems Designer to join our team at the United States Coast Guard. This is an on-site position, and the successful candidate will collaborate closely with our experts at the US Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma. The Instructional Systems Designer will work with subject matter experts, trainers, and stakeholders to design, develop, implement, and evaluate effective learning solutions for the US Coast Guard.

Salary Range: $75,000 - $80,000 annually

Must successfully pass a SSBI background investigation

Must be a U.S. Citizen

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct analysis of learning needs, audience, and performance gaps to determine the most effective learning solutions for the Coast Guard
  • Design and develop instructional materials, such as course outlines, lesson plans, learning objectives, assessments, and training materials, using various instructional design models and tools
  • Collaborate with subject matter experts, trainers, and stakeholders to ensure accuracy and relevance of instructional materials and to ensure that materials align with the Coast Guard's policies and regulations
  • Utilize various instructional technologies, such as learning management systems, authoring tools, and multimedia software, to develop interactive and engaging learning experiences for Coast Guard personnel
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of learning solutions and make recommendations for improvements based on feedback and data from Coast Guard personnel and trainers
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest trends, best practices, and technologies in instructional design and adult learning theory, as well as in the Coast Guard's training programs and policies

Required Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Instructional Design, Education, or a related fieldย orย five yearsโ€™ documented experience in a related field may be substituted for the educational requirement
  • Must possess a minimum of two yearsโ€™ experience using the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) process in the development of courses and training interventions
  • Must be proficient in using the following software applications: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and computer graphics programs
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate with Coast Guard personnel and trainers at all levels
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an on-site team environment while adhering to Coast Guard regulations and standards

About Mayvin

Mayvin is more than a workplaceโ€”itโ€™s a community built on innovation, ingenuity, and impact.ย ย Enjoy outstanding benefits and amenities, a truly supportive work environment, and continuous opportunities for professional growth. Your contributions are recognized and rewarded, andโ€”most importantlyโ€”your voice matters. Here, you're treated with the dignity and respect you deserve.

Mayvin is proud to support the national security mission of the United States through exceptional service to the Departments of War, Homeland Security, and Justice. Join us in solving the nation's toughest challengesโ€”because at Mayvin,ย #PeopleMatterย and it's time toย #ReimagineYourMission.