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Systems Integration Test Engineer Jobs in California

The Role As an Integration & Test Engineer, you'll be the last line of defense for all operations ... Collaborate with design and systems engineers to define test plans with pass/fail criteria for ...

Lead the integration, bring-up, and testing of hardware and software subsystems throughout the ... Years of experience in system integration and/or test engineering for aerospace applications ...

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Systems Integration Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$64.1K

$155K

$165.3K

How much do systems integration test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems integration test engineer in California is $154,986.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $164,800.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Systems Integration Test Engineer do?

A Systems Integration Test Engineer is responsible for ensuring that different components of a system work together as intended. They design, plan, and execute tests that validate the integration of hardware, software, and network elements in complex systems. Their work helps identify and resolve compatibility or functionality issues before deployment. This role often involves collaborating with development, quality assurance, and engineering teams to ensure system reliability and performance.

What is the difference between Systems Integration Test Engineer vs Software Test Engineer?

AspectSystems Integration Test EngineerSoftware Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or Computer Science, certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, ISTQB certification common
Work EnvironmentHardware and software integration labs, manufacturing environmentsSoftware development teams, testing labs, virtual environments
Industry UsageElectronics, aerospace, automotive, telecommunicationsIT, software development, app development
Common Search IntentUnderstanding roles in system integration and testingTesting software applications and features

The main difference is that Systems Integration Test Engineers focus on verifying the integration of hardware and software systems, ensuring components work together seamlessly. Software Test Engineers primarily test software applications for bugs and performance. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping industries, but their focus areas and environments differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Systems Integration Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Integration Test Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, software/hardware integration, and testing methodologies, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with test automation tools, scripting languages (such as Python or Bash), and requirements management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and clear communication skills help you collaborate effectively and troubleshoot complex integration issues. These skills ensure seamless system performance, timely defect identification, and successful deployment of integrated solutions.

What are common challenges faced by Systems Integration Test Engineers during large-scale project deployments?

Systems Integration Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple teams, managing complex dependencies, and ensuring compatibility among various hardware and software components. Large-scale deployments require robust test planning and adaptability, as unforeseen issues can arise when integrating different systems. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial to address integration bugs quickly and to keep the project timeline on track. Collaborating closely with development, QA, and operations teams helps ensure a smooth integration and successful deployment.
What are popular job titles related to Systems Integration Test Engineer jobs in California? For Systems Integration Test Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Systems Integration Test Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Systems Integration Test Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Systems Integration Test Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Systems Integration Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Systems Integration Test Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $154,986 per year, or $74.5 per hour.
Systems Integration and Test Engineer V / VI

Systems Integration and Test Engineer V / VI

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA

$192K - $212K/yr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Role Summary

At Zone 5 Technologies, Systems Integration & Test Engineers lead the development and execution of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) environments and drive the integration, bring-up, and validation of new technologies and features across programs.

This role is highly hands-on while operating at the system level, working across cross-functional teams to mature, integrate, test, and troubleshoot complex avionics, systems, and subsystems prior to production and flight.

Senior and Principal engineers define integration strategy, system architecture, and test philosophy, ensuring alignment from requirements through validation.  You will lead complex integration efforts, own system-level performance and readiness, and serve as the technical authorities responsible for delivering flight-ready capability.

In this role, you are expected to operate with extreme ownership, working effectively across disciplines in a leadership-driven environment, balancing technical execution with strategic direction and team influence.

Responsibilities

Integration Strategy & HITL Architecture

  • Define and architect HITL environments across programs
  • Establish integration standards, processes, and validation strategies
  • Lead complex system integration across avionics, software, and hardware
  • Ensure traceability from requirements to validation

Model-Based & System Validation Leadership

  • Oversee system-level modeling and simulation strategies
  • Guide control validation, system behavior analysis, and verification
  • Drive integration of models into embedded systems

Avionics & System Architecture

  • Define system architectures and interface standards
  • Lead protocol validation, timing architecture, and data flow design
  • Resolve complex cross-system integration challenges

Mechanical & Environmental Integration Oversight

  • Guide packaging strategies for SWaP and thermal constraints
  • Ensure system-level integration viability across environments

Ground & Flight Test Leadership

  • Lead integration test campaigns and readiness reviews
  • Define test plans, success criteria, and risk mitigation strategies
  • Serve as key technical authority during flight test operations

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering
  • 8-15+ years of experience in aerospace integration/test
  • Deep expertise in embedded systems and system architecture
  • Proven experience leading integration efforts or teams

Preferred

  • Extensive SIL / HIL development experience
  • Flight test leadership experience
  • Experience with complex UAV or autonomous systems
  • Strong background in system architecture and verification

Leveling Signals

  • Owns system-level integration strategy
  • Leads teams and cross-functional efforts
  • Defines processes, not just executes them
  • Trusted technical authority across programs

Pay Range:

Level V - $171k - $191k

Level VI - $192k - $212k