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Systems Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salas O'Brien

Security Systems Design Engineer

Monroe, NJ · On-site +1

$105K - $130K/yr

Security Systems Design Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our ...

Apple

Instrument Systems Design Engineer

San Diego, CA

$134K - $245K/yr

We are looking for an engineer to design, develop and deploy calibration and test instrumentation systems for Apple's world class products. This engineer will work closely with cross-functional ...

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Systems Design Engineer information

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$49.5K

$118.6K

$173.5K

How much do systems design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems design engineer in the United States is $118,589.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $137,000.00 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 hardware and software components. They use modeling tools and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system functionality, reliability, and efficiency. 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 $200,000 a year?

Senior systems design engineers, software engineers in specialized fields, and engineering managers often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation can also include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits depending on the company and location.

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior systems design engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in software architecture, and expertise in high-demand industries like technology or finance, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

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.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior systems design engineers, software engineers in specialized fields like AI or cybersecurity, and engineering managers with extensive experience can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities in large or tech-focused companies.
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Systems Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,589 per year, or $57 per hour.
Principal Systems Design Engineer

Principal Systems Design Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

San Jose, CA • On-site

$200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 141 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
THE ROLE:
We are looking for a dynamic, energetic Lead / Principal Systems Design Engineer to join our growing team. As a key contributor to the success of AMD's product, you will be part of a leading team to drive and improve AMD's abilities to deliver the highest quality, industry-leading technologies to market. The Systems Design Engineering team fosters and encourages continuous technical innovation to showcase successes as well as facilitate continuous career development.
THE PERSON:
As a Leader in Systems Design Engineering, you will drive balanced, scalable, and automated solutions. In this high visibility position, your software systems engineering expertise will be necessary towards product development, definition, and root cause resolution.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and implement compilers based on MLIR fused model to execute on NPU/GPU effectively
  • Debugging issues found during the system integration to deliver accurate results
  • Optimize the performance, such as fusion and tiling strategies
  • Working with multiple teams, and tracking test execution to make sure all features are validated and optimized on time

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Programming/scripting skills (e.g. C/C++, Perl, Ruby, Python)
  • Debug techniques and methodologies
  • Extensive knowledge of system architecture, technical debug, and validation strategy
  • Strong analytical/problem-solving skills and pronounced attention to details
  • Must be a self-starter, and able to independently drive tasks to completion

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in electrical or computer engineering

LOCATION: San Jose, California
#LI-DR1
#LI-HYBRID
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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