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Systems Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

Giant Magellan Telescope

Systems Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Systems Engineer Element: Systems Engineering Manager: Lead Systems Engineer Type: Full-Time Location: Pasadena, CA Job Summary Reporting to the Lead Systems Engineer, the successful candidate will ...

Vast

Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA

Vast is looking for a Systems Engineer , reporting to the Vice President of Flight Safety and Mission Assurance, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and ...

Vast

Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$112K - $159K/yr

Vast is looking for a Systems Engineer , reporting to the Vice President of Flight Safety and Mission Assurance, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and ...

Salient Motion

Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Develop and maintain systems engineering deliverables required for formal design reviews (PDR, CDR) and customer submittals - including interface control documents, system descriptions, and ...

Next Step Systems

Senior Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer, Los Angeles, CA We have an opening available for a Senior Systems Engineer. The Senior Systems Engineer is a member of a team of Senior Systems Engineers and is an expert in ...

Salient Motion

Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Develop and maintain systems engineering deliverables required for formal design reviews (PDR, CDR) and customer submittals - including interface control documents, system descriptions, and ...

New

Next Step Systems

Senior Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer, Los Angeles, CA We have an opening available for a Senior Systems Engineer. The Senior Systems Engineer is a member of a team of Senior Systems Engineers and is an expert in ...

Red Cup IT Inc

Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

We are looking for an MSP Systems Engineer who is responsible for maintaining, supporting, and improving client IT environments across on-premises and cloud infrastructure, ensuring high availability ...

Red Cup IT, Inc.

Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

We are looking for an MSP Systems Engineer who is responsible for maintaining, supporting, and improving client IT environments across onpremises and cloud infrastructure, ensuring high availability ...

GPL Technologies

Systems Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Systems Engineer At GPL Technologies, our mission is to provide powerful, reliable, and innovative technology services and leadership to creative companies by combining specialized industry expertise ...

GPL Technologies

Systems Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

Systems Engineer At GPL Technologies, our mission is to provide powerful, reliable, and innovative technology services and leadership to creative companies by combining specialized industry expertise ...

GPL Technologies

Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Systems Engineer At GPL Technologies, our mission is to provide powerful, reliable, and innovative technology services and leadership to creative companies by combining specialized industry expertise ...

GPL Technologies

Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Systems Engineer At GPL Technologies, our mission is to provide powerful, reliable, and innovative technology services and leadership to creative companies by combining specialized industry expertise ...

Chipton Ross

Systems Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$115/hr

Job #219169 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Systems Engineer for a contract opportunity in Palmdale, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * Candidate must hold an active secret clearance ...

Chipton Ross

Systems Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$105/hr

Job #219115 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Systems Engineer for a contract opportunity in Palmdale, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * 10+ years of Experience Integrating and/or ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Systems Engineer, Connectivity

Brea, CA · Hybrid

$112K - $169K/yr

The Systems Engineer performs system-level engineering work supporting the company's SATCOM and In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) product lines, including requirements definition and verification, system ...

RAVE Aerospace LLC

Systems Engineer, Connectivity

Brea, CA · On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

The Systems Engineer performs system-level engineering work supporting the company's SATCOM and In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) product lines, including requirements definition and verification, system ...

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All JobsSystems Engineer JobsSystems Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Systems Engineer information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$58.4K

$138.8K

$182.2K

How much do systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer in Pasadena, CA is $138,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,900.00 and $171,300.00 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 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 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.

Is a systems engineer a high paying job?

Systems engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other technical roles, with compensation varying based on experience, certifications, and location. They often work in industries such as technology, aerospace, and defense, where specialized skills and knowledge of tools like network systems and software are valued. Advanced certifications and experience can lead to higher pay levels in this field.

Is a systems engineer a stressful job?

Systems engineers often face stressful situations due to tight deadlines, complex problem-solving, and the need for high reliability in systems. The role can involve long hours and on-call responsibilities, especially during system outages or critical updates, but it also offers opportunities for problem-solving and technical growth.
More about Systems Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA?

The most popular types of Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA?

For Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Systems Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Systems Engineer job openings:

Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineer job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,766 per year, or $66.7 per hour.

Systems Engineer

Giant Magellan Telescope

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Title: Systems Engineer
Element: Systems Engineering
Manager: Lead Systems Engineer
Type: Full-Time
Location: Pasadena, CA
Job Summary
Reporting to the Lead Systems Engineer, the successful candidate will provide Systems Engineering (SE) support to the Science Instrument Teams throughout all phases of development. This includes reviewing Science Instrument Team deliverables prior to major gate reviews and providing guidance on SE processes to ensure consistency, traceability, and alignment with project SE standards. The engineer will track non-compliances, work with teams to develop dispositions, and present SE processes and expectations at Science Instrument reviews.
The candidate will collaborate with the Science Instrument Teams to update their Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Requirement Documents, and associated change requests. The candidate will also support the development of Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) plans for each Science Instrument, ensuring that lower-level verification activities properly support System-Level AIVC objectives. This will require regular coordination with the Systems Engineering organization and the Assembly, Integration, Verification, and Commissioning (AIVC) team.
This position plays a key role in maintaining system-level consistency across Science Instruments by ensuring that interfaces, requirements, and verification artifacts meet programmatic and technical expectations. The selected candidate will also prepare technical reports and present them in their area of responsibility at project reviews and conferences.
The candidate will periodically update the GMT Product Tree and work with the project to agree on naming conventions for product deliverables. This includes coordination with the subsystems to update higher level deliverables and ensuring that the product names are consistent across the project documents.
Job Duties
  • Provide Systems Engineering (SE) support to the Science Instrument Teams throughout all development and construction phases.
  • Collaborate on Science Instrument Team deliverables in preparation for major gate reviews, ensuring alignment with project standards and SE best practices.
  • Provide guidance and recommendations to Science Instrument Teams about Systems Engineering processes including change control, hazard analysis (HA), risk management, requirements and interface management, verification and validation (V&V), to ensure consistency, traceability, and compliance with program requirements.
  • Track non-compliances and collaborate with Science Instrument Teams to develop appropriate dispositions.
  • Present SE processes, expectations, and findings during Science Instrument reviews.
  • Collaborate with teams to update Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Requirements Documents, and process associated change requests.
  • Support the development of Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) Plans for each Science Instrument.
  • Work closely with the Systems Engineering (SE) and the Assembly, Integration, Verification, and Commissioning (AIVC) teams to ensure lower-level verification activities properly support overall AIVC objectives.
  • Periodically update the GMT Product Tree and work with the project to agree on naming conventions for product deliverables.

Essential Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
  • A minimum of a BS degree in Physics, Engineering, or an equivalent technical discipline
  • A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with systems engineering for electro-opto-mechanical systems or large astronomical observatories with similar complexity
  • Experience with subsystem level integration and testing of complex systems
  • Experience writing subsystem level integration and test procedures
  • Previous experience of Product Data Management systems to manage documentation and maintain configuration control of systems
  • Flexibility to work outside of core business hours and travel to GMTO member locations, vendor premises, and the GMT site in Chile when necessary to accomplish goals
  • Excellent communication skills, capable of writing clear technical documents and presenting to stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a group setting with our international partners
  • Demonstrated critical thinking
  • Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to handle multiple competing priorities

Desired Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
  • M.S. degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline
  • Experience with space or ground-based optical/infrared telescopes or relatable systems
  • High-level, direct, expertise with systems engineering tools and processes appropriate to the development of large (6-10m) optical/IR telescopes and/or astronomical science instruments
  • Knowledge and experience executing systems engineering efforts according to international standards e.g., INCOSE (International Council On Systems Engineering), ISO (International Organizational Standards)/ IEC (International Electrical Technical Commission 15288:2008) (establishes a common framework for describing the life cycle of systems)
  • Develop and maintain system level technical budget and requirements flow down to Science Instrument for image quality, pointing, flexure, and optical alignment.
  • Travel to GMTO member locations, vendor premises, and the GMT site in Chile when necessary to accomplish goals.

Working Conditions
Hybrid office environment. Travel as needed by the project.
Direct Reports
No direct reports.
Featured Benefits
  • Medical insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance

Hiring Range
$115,000- $165,000
The salary for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, and training.

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