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Systems Engineer Level 3 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Systems Engineer Level 3 information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do systems engineer level 3 jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer level 3 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 is a systems engineer level 3?

A Systems Engineer Level 3 is an experienced professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex IT systems and networks within an organization. They typically lead technical projects, troubleshoot advanced issues, and provide guidance to junior engineers. Level 3 engineers are expected to have deep expertise in systems architecture, security, and integration, as well as strong problem-solving skills. Their role often involves collaborating with other departments to ensure systems meet business requirements and operate efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a systems engineer level 3?

To thrive as a Systems Engineer Level 3, you need advanced expertise in systems architecture, network administration, troubleshooting, and a relevant bachelor's degree or higher in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with enterprise operating systems (Windows, Linux), virtualization platforms, cloud services, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, or Microsoft certifications are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative problem-solving skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex IT infrastructures that support organizational goals and ensure operational reliability.

What are some key challenges a systems engineer level 3 might face when managing large-scale infrastructure projects?

As a Systems Engineer Level 3, you may encounter challenges such as integrating legacy systems with new technologies, ensuring high system availability, and managing complex troubleshooting across distributed environments. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—including network engineers, software developers, and cybersecurity professionals—can also present communication and project alignment hurdles. Staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies and compliance standards is essential to effectively address these challenges and drive successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Systems Engineer Level 3 vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystems Engineer Level 3Network Engineer
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Juniper JNCIA
Work EnvironmentData centers, enterprise IT teams, cloud environmentsNetwork operations centers, enterprise networks, service providers
ResponsibilitiesDesign, implement, troubleshoot systems and serversDesign, configure, troubleshoot network infrastructure
Industry UsageIT services, technology firms, large enterprisesTelecommunications, ISPs, large organizations

Systems Engineer Level 3 and Network Engineer roles share certifications and work environments but focus on different technical areas. Systems Engineers primarily handle systems and server infrastructure, while Network Engineers specialize in network design and troubleshooting. Both roles are vital in enterprise IT, often collaborating to ensure seamless technology operations.

What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs in California?

For Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs?

Cities in California with the most Systems Engineer Level 3 job openings:

Infographic showing various Systems Engineer Level 3 job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Systems Test Engineer Level 2 /3

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 370 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking a Systems Test Engineer Level 2 / 3 for the development and ongoing support of new and existing designs used in surface ship and submarine propulsion and power generation systems for the US Navy based out of Sunnyvale, CA. The successful candidate will be collaborative, open, transparent, and team-oriented with a focus on team empowerment & shared responsibility, flexibility, continuous learning, and a culture of automation.
The successful candidate will support current and future system testing for launcher programs for developmental and currently deployed launcher systems and maintain the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously. Perform
functional analysis, scheduling analysis, detailed trade studies, requirements allocation/verification and interface definition studies to translate customer requirements into test requirements and test plans. Perform activities for system
integration, installation, test, operation, maintenance and disposal. Develop test system architecture, develop test plans and procedures, execute testing in accordance with these plans and procedures, and communicate test results.
The ideal candidate has the ability to multi-task and balance multiple projects simultaneously. You enjoy working collaboratively and have strong written and verbal skills. You demonstrate strategic big picture thinking and sound
decision making.
Travel is occasional, consisting of visits to customer for technical reviews, meetings for test planning, and test conduct.
Travel may increase in frequency as system test activity increases during actual test events (30%).
This position can be filled at an Engineer Systems Test or Principal Engineer Systems Test level.
This position is full time onsite at Sunnyvale, CA campus.
This requisition may be filled at a Systems Engineer Level 2 or a Systems Engineer Level 3 based on qualifications listed below:
Basic Qualifications Systems Engineer Level 2:
Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with 2+ years of relevant work; experience, or a Masters degree in a STEM discipline with 0+ years of relevant work experience
Exposure to test plans and procedures for mechanical systems
Experience participating in test meetings
Exposure to test reports
Exposure to requirement verification
Proficient with MS Office
Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain a Secret clearance
Basic Qualifications Systems Engineer Level 3:
Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with 5+ years of relevant work; experience, or a Masters degree in a STEM discipline with 3+ years of relevant work experience
Exposure to test plans and procedures for mechanical systems
Experience participating in test meetings
Exposure to test reports
Exposure to requirement verification
Proficient with MS Office
Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain a Secret clearance
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with 5+ years of relevant work experience, or a Masters degree in a STEM discipline with 3+ years of relevant work experience
Experience creating test plans and procedures for mechanical systems
Experience participating in test meetings
Experience writing test reports
Experience with requirement verification
Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939