Position
Salary

How much does a Systems Engineer make?

The average salary for a Systems Engineer is $132,067 per year in the US.

Systems Engineers play a key role in many industries. They make sure that complex systems work well. These professionals are in demand and often earn a good salary. On average, a Systems Engineer makes about $132,000 a year. This means they can expect to earn a solid income that supports a comfortable lifestyle.


The salary for Systems Engineers can vary based on experience and location. Those with more years of experience usually earn more. Engineers in certain cities or regions might also see higher salaries. For example, the top 10% of earners in this field make over $200,000 a year. This highlights the potential for growth and advancement in this career.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Engineer?

San Francisco stands out as the top city for Systems Engineer salaries, offering an impressive average of $181,649. This high pay reflects the tech-heavy industry presence in the area. Other notable cities include Fayetteville and Hartford, where Systems Engineers earn over $150,000 annually. Pursuing a Systems Engineer career in these cities can lead to strong financial rewards. Cities like San Diego, San Jose, and Dallas also provide excellent opportunities, with salaries exceeding $148,000. These locations boast thriving tech sectors, which support competitive compensation packages.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Engineer jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $181,649 and Nashville, TN with the lowest at $143,549.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $181,649
    Working in tech as a systems expert offers great chances. Major firms like Google and Salesforce look for skilled pros to manage their complex systems. With its vibrant tech scene, one can find many growth opportunities.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Fayetteland, AR
    Average Salary: $156,432
    In Fayetteville, one can leverage a strong tech background. Companies here are expanding, offering good roles. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a great place for professionals.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Fayetteland, AR


  3. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $154,542
    Hartford has a solid mix of tech firms and insurance giants. These companies need skilled systems experts. The city's historic charm adds to the appeal for new professionals.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Hartford, CT


  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $151,984
    San Diego is a hotspot for tech and defense. Many defense contractors and tech startups seek strong systems talent. The city’s pleasant weather makes daily work enjoyable.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $149,652
    San Jose thrives with tech giants like Apple and Intel. This city offers dynamic roles for systems experts. The area’s innovation and vibrant culture make it attractive for tech pros.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA


  6. Toledo, OH
    Average Salary: $149,241
    Toledo offers a lower cost of living and a friendly community. Local firms and manufacturing plants need systems expertise. This city is perfect for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with good pay.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Toledo, OH


  7. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $149,113
    Dallas is a booming tech hub with many opportunities. Companies here are always on the lookout for skilled systems experts. The city's warm climate and lively culture add to its appeal.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Dallas, TX


  8. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $148,969
    Los Angeles is filled with entertainment and tech firms. These companies need robust systems to run smoothly. The city's diverse culture makes it a vibrant place to work and live.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  9. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $144,064
    Miami’s warm climate and growing tech scene attract many professionals. Companies in finance and tech offer exciting roles. The city’s diverse culture adds to its charm.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Miami, FL


  10. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $143,549
    Nashville is known for its music, but it also has a growing tech scene. Music firms and tech startups offer good roles. The city's welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Nashville, TN

What are the best companies a Systems Engineer can work for?

Companies like OpenAI and Palo Alto Networks offer some of the highest salaries for Systems Engineers. These tech giants provide competitive compensation packages to attract top talent. Another excellent option is Hewlett Packard Enterprise, which also pays well for this role. Competitive salaries can also be found at Apple, BCT LLC, and Nutanix. These companies value their Systems Engineers and reflect this in their pay. Companies like Captivation Software and Waymo also offer attractive compensation for those in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Engineer jobs, highlighting OpenAI with the highest at $314,393 and DCI Solutions with the lowest at $197,917.
  1. OpenAI
    Average Salary: $314,393
    OpenAI focuses on developing artificial intelligence. They offer Systems Engineer roles in San Francisco, California.


  2. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $228,104
    Palo Alto Networks creates cybersecurity solutions. They provide opportunities for Systems Engineers across the United States.


  3. Hewlett Packard Enterprise | HPE
    Average Salary: $227,005
    HPE offers technology solutions and services. Their Systems Engineers work in locations like Houston, Texas, and Austin, Texas.


  4. Apple
    Average Salary: $212,605
    Apple designs consumer electronics and software. They need Systems Engineers in Cupertino, California, and other U.S. locations.


  5. BCT LLC
    Average Salary: $212,117
    BCT LLC provides systems integration and cybersecurity services. They hire Systems Engineers in Northern Virginia.


  6. Nutanix
    Average Salary: $207,279
    Nutanix specializes in cloud computing software. They offer Systems Engineer positions in locations like San Jose, California.


  7. NVIDIA
    Average Salary: $201,817
    NVIDIA creates graphics processing units and AI solutions. They need Systems Engineers in Santa Clara, California.


  8. Captivation Software
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Captivation Software offers cloud and managed services. They hire Systems Engineers in Reston, Virginia.


  9. Waymo
    Average Salary: $198,427
    Waymo develops autonomous driving technology. They employ Systems Engineers in Mountain View, California.


  10. DCI Solutions
    Average Salary: $197,917
    DCI Solutions provides IT and engineering services. They hire Systems Engineers in Fairfax, Virginia.

How to earn more as a Systems Engineer?

A Systems Engineer can increase their earnings through several key strategies. Gaining experience in specialized areas can lead to higher-paying positions. Knowledge in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network management is highly valued. Certifications in these fields also enhance earning potential. Continuous learning and professional development are crucial.

Networking with industry professionals can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional groups, and connecting with peers can lead to higher-paying roles. Moving to areas with a higher demand for Systems Engineers can also boost income. Salary negotiations and seeking promotions within the company are effective ways to earn more. Maintaining a strong performance record can justify salary increases and bonuses.

Below are some factors to consider to increase earnings:

  1. Gain specialized skills and certifications.
  2. Network with industry professionals.
  3. Move to higher-demand areas.
  4. Negotiate salaries and seek promotions.
  5. Maintain a strong performance record.

Currently 1,570 Systems Engineer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Systems Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Systems Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Systems Engineer today.
Position
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Systems Engineer
1,570 Job Openings