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Systems Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Escalate to and/or collaborate with Senior Systems Engineers when necessary * Adhere to communication standards and enter detailed notes on all support tickets * Contribute to division initiatives ...

The role requires collaboration with HW digital designers and architects, products, radio, analog designers, and SW/FW engineers, to define and specify the wireless systems. You will get to work with ...

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Systems Engineer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$58.5K

$139.1K

$182.6K

How much do systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer in Santa Rosa, CA is $139,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $171,700.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Systems Engineer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $139,088 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Systems Engineering SME

Novato, CA • On-site, Remote

QinetiQ
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) / Robotics Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide technical leadership and systems engineering expertise in support QinetiQ robotics programs. The successful candidate will support the development, integration, testing, fielding of robotic systems and unmanned ground systems.
The SME will serve as a trusted technical advisor to government and industry stakeholders, contributing to system architecture, requirements development, technology assessments, integration planning, and technical evaluations for advanced autonomous and remotely operated ground systems.
Responsibilities
  • Provide systems engineering expertise throughout the planning, development, integration, testing, deployment of UGV programs.
  • Support requirements analysis, systems architecture development, interface definition, and engineering trade studies.
  • Evaluate the integration of mobility, power, communications, sensing, navigation, autonomy, payload, and mission-support subsystems.
  • Develop and review system requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), specifications, engineering analyses, and technical documentation.
  • Support system integration activities, verification and validation (V&V), developmental testing, and operational test planning.
  • Conduct technical risk assessments and recommend mitigation strategies throughout the program life-cycle.
  • Participate in technical reviews, design reviews, working groups, and customer briefings.
  • Support configuration management and requirements traceability activities.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, government laboratories, contractors, and external partners.
  • Assess emerging technologies and recommend approaches to improve capability, reliability, maintainability, and life-cycle support.
  • Prepare technical reports, white papers and proposals.
  • Mentor engineers and provide technical guidance across multiple projects.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience supporting defense systems engineering programs, including experience with unmanned or robotic systems.
  • Secret Clearance Required; #qinetiqclearedjob
  • Demonstrated knowledge of systems engineering principles across the full system life-cycle.
  • Experience supporting the integration of complex hardware and software systems.
  • Experience with requirements management, interface management, technical reviews, and engineering documentation.
  • Strong analytical, technical writing, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with government and contractor stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in an engineering or related technical discipline.
  • Experience supporting U.S. DoD acquisition, science and technology (S&T), or rapid capability development programs.
  • Experience with autonomous systems, robotic platforms, or unmanned ground vehicles.
  • Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) methodologies and digital engineering practices.
  • Experience with systems integration laboratories, field testing, or prototype development.
  • Active U.S. Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.
  • Systems engineering lifecycle processes
  • UGV platform integration
  • Autonomous and remotely operated systems
  • Robotics and mechatronic systems
  • Sensor integration
  • Power and energy systems
  • Navigation and positioning technologies
  • Communications and network architectures including MOSA
  • Software and hardware integration
  • Requirements management
  • Verification and validation
  • Technical risk management
  • Reliability, maintainability, and lifecycle engineering
  • Test planning and engineering evaluation

Pay Transparency
The salary range for this role is $150,000 - $200,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Company EEO Statement
Accessibility/Accommodation:
If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.