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Systems Engineer Level 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Systems Engineer Level 3 information

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer level 3 in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 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.

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What cities are hiring for Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs?

Cities with the most Systems Engineer Level 3 job openings:

What states have the most Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs?

States with the most job openings for Systems Engineer Level 3 jobs include:

Infographic showing various Systems Engineer Level 3 job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Systems Engineer - Level 2 or 3 (AHT)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 542 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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 Space Systems, Multi-Domain Operations, and Missile Defense Integration Business Unit (BU) has an exciting career opportunity for a Systems Engineer - Level 2 or 3 to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. With positions in Colorado Springs, CO and Schriever Space Force Base.

Position Overview:

The Systems Engineer - Level 2 or 3 will support a growing portfolio of programs or IRADs that focus on missile defense, space, and intelligence and will support various modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) project teams performing systems engineering across the entire "systems engineering vee".

Essential Functions:

  • Define, analyze, and manage system requirements and architecture, ensuring traceability from stakeholder needs to subsystem designs.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop, integrate, and troubleshoot system solutions that meet cost, schedule, and performance objectives.
  • Plan and execute system-level verification and validation, including test planning, procedures, execution, and documentation of results.
  • Prepare and maintain key technical documentation (e.g., specifications, interface definitions, design descriptions, and test reports).

Seeking candidates who find satisfaction in working on challenging and diverse assignments in collaborative settings across all levels.

This requisition may be filled at a higher grade based on qualifications listed below.

This requisition may be filled at either a Systems Engineer - Level 2 or a Principal Systems Engineer - Level 3.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Basic Qualifications for Systems Engineer - Leve 2: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and2 years of related work experience, or a Master's Degree in STEM and 0-2 years of related work experience.
  • Basic Qualifications for Principal Systems Engineer - Level 3: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and5 years of related work experience, or a Master's Degree in STEM and 3 years of related work experience, or 1 year of related work experience with a PhD in STEM.
  • Applicants must have a current, active in-scope U.S. Government issuedSecretsecurity clearance at the time of application, which is required to start
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% to support business needs
  • Experience translating customer needs into a mature baselined set of requirements
  • Extensive experience developing a fully traceable system architecture utilizing the Systems Modeling Language (SysML)
  • Experience with formal verification and validation processes
  • Comfortable communicating technical information to technical and non-technical customers
  • Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a team setting
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • A current active in-scope U.S. Government issued Top Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility
  • Master's Degree in Systems Engineering
  • Experience supporting multiple programs across a portfolio in various stages of the systems engineering life cycle.
  • Experience using the Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration, and Modeling (AFSIM), Ansys Systems Tool Kit (STK), or a similar mission-level modeling and simulation framework
  • Experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar programming languages for data analysis
  • Experience in CAMEO, Magic Draw, DOORS, or other requirement management tools
  • Experience with Atlassian tools like Cameo and Jira
  • Experience mentoring and developing junior-level engineers
  • Experience supporting proposals for capture efforts
  • Experience conducting trade studies and familiarity with trade study methodologies
  • Experience with formal verification and validation processes
  • Experience using MBSE architectural frameworks, such as DODAF/MODAF (or UPDM) or UAF
  • Experience using agile development methodologies
  • Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) Graduate Certificate
  • INCOSE ASEP/CSEP/ESEP certification
  • Object Modeling Group (OMG) Certified Systems Modeling Professional (OCSMP) Model Builder Fundamental Certification
Primary Level Salary Range: $83,400.00 - $125,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00The 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