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Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

End to End Systems Engineer. * Onsite in Foster City, CA | 5 days in office. * The End-to-End (E2E) Feature and Homologation team brings systems engineering focus and discipline to client mobility-as ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Apply systems engineering principles and best practices across the full lifecycle of a technical program, from concept to disposal. * Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using ...

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly Potential for Remote Work:

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly Potential for Remote Work:

Systems Engineer

Granite Bay, CA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Systems Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract opportunity located in Crane, IN. Job Responsibilities: * Apply systems engineering principles across requirements ...

Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

Systems Engineer

Granite Bay, CA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Systems Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting Systems Engineer contract opportunity. Job Responsibilities: * Apply systems engineering principles across requirements ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON ...

Systems Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$64.90/hr

Job #219153 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Systems Engineer for a contract opportunity in Anaheim, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) Experience with all aspects of SEIT and product ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$66.67/hr

Lead system engineering, hardware, and software analysis to support the Navy's Key Management project portfolio. * Define and apply systems engineering processes to develop systems that meet customer ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON ...

Showing results 21-40

Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer 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?

Systems engineers are professionals who design, integrate, and manage complex systems throughout their life cycles. They work across various industries, ensuring that all aspects of a project or system—hardware, software, processes, and people—work together efficiently and effectively. Systems engineers coordinate between different engineering teams, address technical and organizational challenges, and ensure requirements are met. Their role often involves both big-picture thinking and attention to detail to deliver reliable and scalable solutions.

What does a systems engineer do?

The role of a systems engineer varies based on the company they work for, but in every industry systems engineers use computerized systems to keep track of all the moving parts within their organizations. The term systems engineer usually refers to a computer systems engineer, which combines several disciplines to create, purchase, and install a computer system that suits the needs of each particular client. They will also work in a hands-on manner during the installation, acquisition, testing, and implementation phases of the project. Duties typically include making recommendations for scalability, troubleshooting any problems that arise during the use of the system, reviewing a company’s security requirements, and recommending security measures to allow the company to avoid compromising any sensitive data.

What is the difference between Systems Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystems EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Juniper JNCIA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and managing IT systems and infrastructureDesigning, configuring, and maintaining network hardware and connectivity
Industry UsageIT, technology, enterprise solutionsTelecommunications, IT, networking service providers
Common TasksSystem integration, troubleshooting, server managementNetwork setup, routing, switching, security

While both roles involve technical expertise in IT infrastructure, Systems Engineers focus on overall system architecture and integration, whereas Network Engineers specialize in network hardware, connectivity, and security. Understanding these differences helps employers and professionals align skills with job requirements.

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

To thrive as a Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and integration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with operating systems (like Linux and Windows), virtualization platforms, scripting languages, and certifications such as CompTIA, Cisco (CCNA), or Microsoft (MCSA) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the design, implementation, and maintenance of reliable, scalable systems critical for organizational operations.

How does a systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers often serve as a bridge between various technical and non-technical teams, including software developers, network specialists, project managers, and end users. Throughout a project, they participate in requirements gathering, design reviews, and integration testing, ensuring that each component fits seamlessly within the overall system. Effective communication and documentation are crucial, as Systems Engineers must translate complex technical concepts into actionable tasks for diverse stakeholders. This collaborative approach not only streamlines problem-solving but also helps deliver robust, scalable solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Full-time

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Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

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Job description


SAIC is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to join our Technical Engineering and Design Department in support of our United States Air Force customer. This position is on-site in San Diego, CA.
Responsibilities:
  • Apply systems engineering principles and best practices across the full lifecycle of a technical program, from concept to disposal.
  • Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies (e.g., SysML, UPDM, DoDAF).
  • Lead the definition, decomposition, and management of system requirements, ensuring traceability and alignment with program objectives and stakeholder needs.
  • Conduct trade studies, analyses of alternatives, and risk assessments to inform key technical decisions and mitigate program risks.
  • Define and manage system interfaces, ensuring interoperability and integration between system components.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, and test engineers, to ensure a cohesive and integrated system design.
  • Support system integration, verification, and validation activities to ensure the system meets all requirements and is fit for purpose.
  • Prepare and present technical documentation, system models, and briefings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Work with program management to ensure technical solutions are developed on schedule and within budget.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to the continuous enhancement of the systems engineering discipline within the program.

Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in a relevant technical field such as Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Computer Science.
  • 5+ years of progressive experience in systems engineering on complex technical or aerospace/defense programs.
  • Demonstrated expertise in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) with proficiency in tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler, Sparx EA, or Rhapsody.
  • Strong understanding of the entire systems engineering lifecycle, from requirements analysis to system deployment and support.
  • Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, JAMA).
  • Familiarity with architecture frameworks such as DoDAF, UPDM, or UAF.
  • Proven track record in conducting trade studies, risk analysis, and interface control.
  • Excellent problem-solving, critical-thinking, and analytical skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with a diverse team.
  • INCOSE certification (e.g., CSEP, ASEP) is highly desirable.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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