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Systems Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Orbotech

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$116K - $159K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... design. Surfscan product engineering group is comprised of team members with various subject areas ...

Sandisk

Technologist, Systems Design Engineering

Milpitas, CA

$114K - $156K/yr

... engineering judgment. * Strong understanding of HW-FW-system interactions, with the ability to debug complex issues spanning multiple layers. * Ability to collaborate effectively with design partners ...

New

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$116K - $159K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... design. Surfscan product engineering group is comprised of team members with various subject areas ...

Orbotech

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... The Surfscan system design team is supporting multiple Surfscan engineering programs and products.

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$116K - $159K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... design. Surfscan product engineering group is comprised of team members with various subject areas ...

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... The Surfscan system design team is supporting multiple Surfscan engineering programs and products.

Nvidia

System Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$117K - $160K/yr

We are now looking for a System Design Engineer in the Graphics Product Team. In this role, you will be working with a team of HW/SW engineers to develop NVIDIA GPU/Tegra based products forGPU cards ...

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$159K - $271K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with ...

Nvidia Corporation

System Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

We are now looking for a System Design Engineer in the Graphics Product Team. In this role, you will be working with a team of HW/SW engineers to develop NVIDIA GPU/Tegra based products for GPU cards ...

KLA Corporation

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$159K - $271K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with ...

Revel

Design Systems Engineer, HMI

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

As a Design Systems Engineer, you will own the research, standards, and design foundations that ensure our interfaces communicate clearly, accessibly, and unambiguously-even under stress, fatigue ...

Orbotech

System Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$159K - $271K/yr

KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits ... Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with ...

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All JobsSystems Design Engineer JobsSystems Design Engineer Jobs in California

Systems Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$117K

$171.2K

How much do systems design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems 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 are Systems Design Engineers?

Systems Design Engineers are professionals who develop, integrate, and optimize complex systems that often involve hardware, software, and processes. They work on designing system architectures, specifying requirements, and ensuring that all components function together efficiently. Their role often bridges multiple engineering disciplines, facilitating communication between teams and ensuring that the final product meets technical, business, and user needs. Systems Design Engineers are commonly found in industries like aerospace, automotive, technology, and manufacturing.

What does a System Design engineer do?

A Systems Design Engineer develops and plans complex systems by analyzing requirements, creating architecture, and integrating components to ensure functionality and efficiency. They often use modeling tools, collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams, and focus on scalability, reliability, and performance. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering principles are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Systems Design Engineer, you need a strong background in systems engineering, mathematics, and design principles, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and systems modeling languages like SysML is typically required, along with relevant industry certifications such as INCOSE CSEP. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help facilitate effective collaboration and innovation. These skills ensure the successful design, integration, and optimization of complex systems that meet both technical and client requirements.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, systems engineering, and petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in technology and energy sectors.

How does a Systems Design Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Systems Design Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is a central part of the job. You will regularly interface with hardware engineers, software developers, project managers, and quality assurance teams to ensure that system-level requirements are met. This often involves participating in design reviews, providing technical documentation, and troubleshooting integration issues. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential, as you will help bridge gaps between disciplines to deliver cohesive, functional systems.

What is the difference between Systems Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectSystems Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Systems Engineering, Electrical, or related fields; certifications like INCOSEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning complex systems, often in tech, aerospace, or defense industriesDesigning mechanical components, machinery, or thermal systems in manufacturing or automotive sectors
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, systems integratorsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design

Systems Design Engineers focus on creating integrated systems combining hardware and software, while Mechanical Engineers primarily design mechanical components and systems. Both roles require engineering degrees and often work in related industries, but their core responsibilities and expertise differ significantly.

Is EEe a high paying job?

Systems Design Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. In general, this role offers above-average compensation compared to many engineering fields, especially for those with specialized skills in system architecture, hardware, and software integration.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior systems design engineers, software engineers in specialized fields, and engineering managers with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries often require advanced certifications, expertise in complex systems, and leadership responsibilities within technology or engineering companies.
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Systems Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Design Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,037 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
Sr/Staff Wiring Systems Design Engineer

Sr/Staff Wiring Systems Design Engineer

Joby Aviation

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$139K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate senior engineer to join our team with a focus in Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS), working with electrical, manufacturing, and structural engineers to meet design requirements for functionality, manufacturability, integration, inspectability, and maintenance. The senior engineer will be responsible for designing flight critical wire harness assemblies and electromechanical interconnection systems, as well as creating test plans to characterize, qualify, and validate those designs. This individual must be highly organized and self-driven while possessing a deep understanding of aerospace design standards. This position is exciting and rewarding, as the engineer will promptly see their ideas grow from concept to creation due to the fast pace of Joby Aviation.
Responsibilities
  • Design electromechanical interconnection systems according to aerospace standards
  • Generate 3D CAD for wire routing, clamp locations, and datum markers
  • Author 2D drawings based on 3D design, utilizing industry best practices and general knowledge of GD&T
  • Provide solutions to support and protect wire harnesses
  • Audit wire diagrams and topologies for accuracy against interface control documents

Required
  • B.S. in electrical or mechanical engineering
  • 8+ years of working experience in a relevant industry
  • 2+ years of experience within the aviation industry
  • Excellent problem solving and teamwork skills, working with many people and teams
  • Experience with hands-on design, prototyping, and testing
  • Strong background utilizing PDM
  • Proficiency with CAD, such as Catia, Pro/E, SolidWorks, 3DExperience, etc.
  • Familiarity with EWIS aerospace standards, such as SAE AS50881, AC 43.13 Ch.11, ASTM F2639, etc.

Desired
  • M.S. in electrical or mechanical engineering
  • 10+ years of working experience in a relevant industry
  • Understanding of ERP/MRP/PLM solutions
  • Experience with Catia, specifically using Electrical 3D Design, Electrical 3D Part Design, Electrical Manufacturing Preparation, Assembly Design, Part Design, Generative Shape Design, and Logical to Physical linking

Additional Information
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $139,400 - $237,000/yrThe compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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