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System Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tactical Engineering & Analysis

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... System Engineering Management Plan, Interface control documents, version description documents, fault tree assessments. Participate in the systems engineering life-cycle by supporting and assisting ...

Apply Early

Tactical Engineering & Analysis

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... System Engineering Management Plan, Interface control documents, version description documents, fault tree assessments. Participate in the systems engineering life-cycle by supporting and assisting ...

Apply Early

Sapsol Technologies Inc

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Transport Engineering, or a related field. * Strong understanding of railway systems and operations: locomotives, EMUs, DMUs, high-speed and freight ...

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All JobsSystem Engineering JobsSystem Engineering Jobs in California

System Engineering information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do system engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineering in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by System Engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

System Engineers often collaborate with professionals from software development, hardware design, quality assurance, and project management. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these teams, as each may use different technical jargon and have distinct priorities. System Engineers must bridge these gaps, translating requirements and constraints to all stakeholders while balancing technical feasibility with project timelines. Developing strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving can help overcome these challenges and lead to successful project outcomes.

What is system engineering?

System engineering is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. It involves understanding and defining customer needs, translating them into system requirements, and creating solutions that span hardware, software, and processes. System engineers coordinate across various disciplines, ensuring that all parts of a project work together efficiently and effectively. Their work is crucial in industries such as aerospace, defense, IT, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between System Engineering vs Network Engineering?

AspectSystem EngineeringNetwork Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like INCOSE, PMPBachelor's in Computer Science or related, Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP)
Work EnvironmentDesigning and integrating complex systems across industriesDesigning, implementing, and maintaining computer networks
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, defense, ITTelecommunications, IT services, enterprise networks
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for technical scope and certificationsFocuses on network infrastructure and security

System Engineering and Network Engineering share overlapping skills in technical certifications and work environments, but differ in focus. System Engineers design complex systems across various industries, while Network Engineers specialize in network infrastructure. Both roles are vital in technology and engineering sectors, often requiring similar credentials but serving distinct functions.

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

To thrive as a System Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or engineering, along with expertise in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and integration. Familiarity with operating systems (like Linux and Windows), scripting languages, cloud platforms, and certifications such as CompTIA, AWS, or Microsoft Certified: Azure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication, and collaboration skills help system engineers excel in cross-functional teams and resolve complex technical challenges. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure reliable, scalable, and secure IT infrastructure that meets organizational needs.
What cities in California are hiring for System Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most System Engineering job openings:
System Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.
Systems Engineer

Systems Engineer

Tactical Engineering & Analysis

San Diego, CA • On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

The Systems Engineer is responsible for the integration, configuration, troubleshooting, and installation of systems hardware, software, and related infrastructure in support of the Naval Tactical Grid (NTG) team within Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC). This role ensures that the hardware and software systems and infrastructure are successfully integrated prior, during, and after deployment. This position may also require travel to ensure the installation of systems for each test cycle is completed thoroughly and accurately following project guidelines.


CORE FUNCTIONS / JOB DUITES

Able to perform the following with supervision:

Assist in designing, developing, and testing computer systems, including hardware, software, and networking components.

Integrate multiple systems, hardware, and software components to ensure seamless functionality.

Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve system issues (bugs), as needed.

Work closely with cross- functional teams, including software development, test/QA, technical support, technical writing, system architects, configuration management, and all levels of program management.

Maintain accurate and up to date documentation of system designs, System Requirement Document (SRD), System Requirement Specification (SRS), software user manuals, configurations, requirement traceability matrices, risk assessments, System Engineering Management Plan, Interface control documents, version description documents, fault tree assessments.

Participate in the systems engineering life-cycle by supporting and assisting with key activities across all phases, including requirements analysis, system design and architecture, implementation and integration, testing and verification, documentation, troubleshooting and maintenance, and collaboration.

Research and systems engineering methodologies, tools, and best practices; stay updated on industry trends and support in the training of junior members of the team.


SKILLS & ABILITIES

Basic knowledge of the following:

Networking concepts and protocols

Switches and Routers

Windows and Linux servers

One or more programming languages

IEEE standards, systems integration and design principles

Requirement Management Tools


EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Science in STEM field Required

Network+ Preferred

Linux+ Preferred

CCNA Preferred


TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

General office environment

Computer/Equipment lab


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

May be expected to lift up to 25 lbs

Frequent use of keyboard and typing

Frequent sitting and standing


WORK SCHEDULE

9/80

The ability to work non-standard work hours and schedules in support of project requirements.


PAY RANGE

$100,000.00 to $ $125,000.00 annually, DOE


U.S. Citizenship is Required


SECURITY CLEARANCE

Candidates must have an active clearance OR the ability to obtain a US Government security clearance and will be subject to a US security background investigation (i.e. favorable background investigation / credit score). Additional eligibility requirements for access to various levels of classified information may also be required. An active security clearance is highly desirable.


Tactical Engineering & Analysis, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Minority/Female/Disability/Protected Veteran Employer


Job Posted by ApplicantPro