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Systems Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Comet

Manager, Systems Engineering

San Jose, CA · On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

To complement our team, we are looking for a customer- and teamoriented individual for our division Plasma Control Technologies at the San Jose site as a Manager, Systems Engineering For over 75 ...

Waymo

Director, Systems Engineering

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$323K - $410K/yr

S. states. Waymo's Systems Engineering team works together to blend software and hardware systems in groundbreaking new ways. We set the high performance standards that ensure our vehicles run ...

Waymo

Director, Systems Engineering

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$323K - $410K/yr

S. states. Waymo's Systems Engineering team works together to blend software and hardware systems in groundbreaking new ways. We set the high performance standards that ensure our vehicles run ...

LLNL

Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$227K - $288K/yr

We have an opening for a Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager to lead and advance the cryogenic operations and engineering capabilities that support the successful fielding of all NIF targets. You ...

LLNL

Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$227K - $288K/yr

We have an opening for a Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager to lead and advance the cryogenic operations and engineering capabilities that support the successful fielding of all NIF targets. You ...

LLNL

Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$227K - $288K/yr

We have an opening for a Cryogenic Systems Engineering Manager to lead and advance the cryogenic operations and engineering capabilities that support the successful fielding of all NIF targets. You ...

L3HHCM20

$80K - $149K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Associate, Systems Engineering Job Code: 35582 Job Location: Canoga Park, CA or Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 9/80 Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and ...

PlusAI

Systems Engineering Intern

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$19 - $65/hr

The Systems and Safety team is responsible to support development of agentic tooling for Systems Engineering (SE) applications including systems level analysis, requirements derivation and test plan ...

L3HHCM20

$106K - $197K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Specialist, Systems Engineering Job Code: 37981 Job Location: Canoga Park, CA or Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 9/80 Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked ...

PlusAI

Systems Engineering Intern

Santa Clara, CA

$16 - $95/hr

This exciting opportunity within the Systems Engineering team at Plus will focus on continuously define, track and analyze operational performance metrics to quantify Safety of the Intended Function ...

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All JobsSystems Engineering JobsSystems Engineering Jobs in California

Systems Engineering information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$140.2K

$193.4K

How much do systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineering in California is $140,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a system engineering degree?

A systems engineering degree prepares individuals for roles involving designing, analyzing, and managing complex systems across industries such as aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and technology. Graduates often work as systems engineers, project managers, or technical analysts, utilizing skills in systems integration, modeling, and tools like MATLAB or CAD. Certifications like INCOSE can enhance career prospects.

How does a Systems Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers play a pivotal role in bridging various departments such as software, hardware, and project management throughout the project lifecycle. They facilitate communication by translating technical requirements between teams, ensuring that all components integrate seamlessly. Regular meetings, documentation reviews, and design sessions are common, and Systems Engineers often serve as mediators to resolve technical conflicts or dependencies. This collaborative environment helps deliver robust and scalable solutions that meet both business and technical goals.

What is systems engineering?

Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. It involves coordinating various engineering disciplines and specialties to ensure that all parts of a project work together efficiently to meet customer needs. Systems engineers use principles from engineering, management, and mathematics to address both the technical and organizational aspects of a project, from initial concept through development, deployment, and maintenance.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior systems engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within large technology companies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced certifications and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

What is the difference between Systems Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectSystems EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Systems Engineering, Electrical, or related fields; often certifications like INCOSEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often PE licensure
Work EnvironmentProject teams, systems integration, interdisciplinary collaborationDesign labs, manufacturing, product development
Industry UsageTechnology, aerospace, defense, ITAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Systems Engineering focuses on designing and managing complex systems across various disciplines, emphasizing integration and lifecycle management. Mechanical Engineering centers on designing and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. While both roles require engineering degrees, their focus areas, work environments, and industry applications differ significantly.

What jobs can system engineers do?

System engineers can work in roles such as systems analyst, network engineer, cybersecurity engineer, or systems architect, focusing on designing, implementing, and maintaining complex systems. They often work with tools like CAD software, scripting languages, and project management methodologies, and may require certifications like INCOSE or CompTIA. These roles are common in industries such as technology, aerospace, defense, and manufacturing.

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 solid background in systems architecture, integration, and problem-solving, often supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, SysML, and requirements management software, as well as certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to excel in multidisciplinary environments. These competencies ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of complex systems that meet organizational goals.

What work does a system engineer do?

A systems engineer designs, develops, and manages complex systems by integrating hardware and software components to ensure functionality, reliability, and performance. They analyze requirements, create technical specifications, and often use tools like modeling software, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Certifications such as INCOSE or Cisco can enhance their expertise, and they typically work in environments that require strong problem-solving and communication skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Systems Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Systems Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Systems Engineering job openings:
Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,209 per year, or $67.4 per hour.
Manager, Systems Engineering

Manager, Systems Engineering

Comet

San Jose, CA • On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Info if you refer a talent: Please ask your referral whether they agree to the submission of their personal data.

To complement our team, we are looking for a customer- and teamoriented individual for our division Plasma Control Technologies at the San Jose site as a

Manager, Systems Engineering

For over 75 years, we have been following our curiosity. It drives us and has made Comet a leading Swiss technology company worldwide. Curiosity and the spirit of research have allowed us to become and remain innovative. For a better and sustainable world.

We develop and produce innovative high-tech components and systems based on X-ray and radio-frequency technology. Our developments make an important contribution to safer, more efficient and more sustainable production, mobility and communication. 

In the Plasma Control Technologies (PCT) division, we manufacture specialized components that are required for the precise control of plasma processes and are used in the production of memory chips or touch screens for sensors, smartphones or tablets.

What You Will Do

  • Lead an experienced best-in-class system architecture team, driving the technical direction of impedance matching network products worldwide.
  • Manage and perform as the key technical interface with customers to determine engineering requirements and build relationships.
  • Directly interface with development teams and project management.
  • Develop innovative high-power RF solutions to solve complex plasma power delivery problems for custom RF auto-match products.
  • Drive continuous improvements into products and products portfolio, while driving multiple product development efforts simultaneously.
  • Drive the industrialization of impedance matching network products and transition into production.
  • Guide application engineers in the field to develop new opportunities for products.

 

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering with an emphasis on RF or equivalent technical expertise.
  • Expertise in systems development of semiconductor manufacturing hardware - plasma high-power RF delivery systems and plasma measurement systems is highly preferred.
  • Proficient in developing relevant mathematical models; statistical & numerical analysis.
  • Experience with direct customer interaction is a must.

 

The target salary range for this job is approximately $200,000 to $230,000 annually.

 

Job summaries account for a range of qualifications, skills, and experience that can be considered. We are committed to making fair and equitable job offers based on a number of factors including but not limited to the job scope, market conditions, and candidate skill level and depth of experience.

Why join us? Break new ground with us:

  • Work on innovative solutions for global technical challenges
  • Benefit from flexible working options
  • Take part in Comet's success through profit sharing
  • Work with international colleagues and grow as a team
  • Enjoy our diverse educational and career opportunities
  • Enjoy a competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision care, tuition reimbursement, a 401(k) plan, and a generous paid-time-off package
     

We are curious about you and look forward to receiving your complete online application and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For this vacancy, we only consider direct applications. Submissions from recruitment agencies will not be considered.

Comet Technologies USA, Inc.
541 E. Trimble Road
San Jose, CA 95131
United States
comet.tech/careers

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