Systems Engineer Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Systems Engineer make?

The average salary for a Systems Engineer is $127,790 per year in the US.

A Systems Engineer plays a key role in designing, managing, and maintaining complex systems. This profession offers a rewarding salary that reflects the skills and expertise required. On average, a Systems Engineer earns around $127,790 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry.

Experienced Systems Engineers often see higher salaries. Entry-level positions may start around $62,500, while those with more than ten years of experience can earn upwards of $228,000. Key factors influencing salary include the complexity of the systems managed and the specific industry, such as technology, healthcare, or finance. Companies in urban areas or tech hubs may also offer higher compensation packages to attract top talent.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Engineer?

Systems Engineers can find some of the best pay in California. Riverside, San Francisco, and San Jose offer the highest salaries. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Engineer jobs, highlighting Riverside, CA with the highest at $162,969 and Des Moines, IA with the lowest at $139,657.
  1. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $162,969
    In Riverside, CA, professionals can work with tech companies and startups. The city offers a mix of projects, from infrastructure to software development. Riverside's growing tech scene provides opportunities for growth.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $159,603
    San Francisco, CA, is a hub for tech giants. Working here means collaborating with some of the world's leading companies. The city offers a dynamic environment with many learning opportunities.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $149,642
    Fresno, CA, has a strong agricultural sector and growing tech industry. Working here offers a mix of traditional and modern projects. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Fresno, CA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $146,373
    San Jose, CA, is known as the Silicon Valley. It is home to many tech companies. Working here means being at the forefront of innovation. The city offers a vibrant community and many networking opportunities.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $145,878
    Los Angeles, CA, offers a diverse job market. Professionals here work on a wide range of projects. The city's entertainment industry also provides unique opportunities for tech integration.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $144,053
    Little Rock, AR, has a growing tech industry. Working here means being part of a supportive community. The city offers a lower cost of living and a friendly work environment.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Little Rock, AR


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $142,134
    San Diego, CA, has a strong tech presence. Professionals here work on cutting-edge projects. The city offers a great quality of life with beautiful weather and outdoor activities.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $141,124
    Hartford, CT, is a hub for insurance and financial services. Working here means being part of a stable industry. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern tech projects.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Hartford, CT


  9. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $139,953
    Boulder, CO, has a vibrant tech scene. Professionals here work on innovative projects. The city offers a high quality of life with beautiful surroundings and outdoor activities.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO


  10. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $139,657
    Des Moines, IA, has a growing tech industry. Working here means being part of a supportive community. The city offers a lower cost of living and a friendly work environment.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA

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

Palo Alto Networks leads the way for Systems Engineers, offering a top salary of $229,886. Apple and Nutanix follow closely, with average salaries of $207,888 and $207,779, respectively. Waymo and Fortinet also provide competitive pay, with averages of $207,579 and $200,895. These companies value skilled Systems Engineers and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Engineer jobs, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $229,886 and Applied Materials with the lowest at $182,093.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $229,886
    Palo Alto Networks offers exciting Systems Engineer roles. They focus on network security and operate globally. Locations include the USA, Europe, and Asia.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $207,888
    Apple provides Systems Engineer positions with a focus on technology and innovation. They have offices worldwide, including the USA, Europe, and Asia.


  3. Nutanix
    Average Salary: $207,779
    Nutanix offers Systems Engineer roles with a focus on cloud computing. They operate in the USA, Europe, and Asia.


  4. Waymo
    Average Salary: $207,579
    Waymo provides Systems Engineer jobs with a focus on autonomous vehicles. They operate in the USA and are expanding globally.


  5. Fortinet
    Average Salary: $200,895
    Fortinet offers Systems Engineer roles with a focus on cybersecurity. They have offices in the USA, Europe, and Asia.


  6. PwC
    Average Salary: $198,123
    PwC provides Systems Engineer positions with a focus on consulting and technology. They operate in the USA, Europe, and Asia.


  7. DCI Solutions
    Average Salary: $186,429
    DCI Solutions offers Systems Engineer roles with a focus on IT services. They operate in the USA and Europe.


  8. DCCA
    Average Salary: $185,600
    DCCA provides Systems Engineer positions with a focus on government services. They operate in the USA.


  9. Zoox
    Average Salary: $184,526
    Zoox offers Systems Engineer roles with a focus on autonomous vehicles. They operate in the USA.


  10. Applied Materials
    Average Salary: $182,093
    Applied Materials provides Systems Engineer positions with a focus on semiconductor manufacturing. They operate in the USA, Europe, and Asia.

How to earn more as a Systems Engineer?

A Systems Engineer can find many ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, professionals can enhance their skills and market value. This leads to higher salary opportunities. Networking with industry leaders and staying updated on technology trends can open doors to better-paying positions.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Systems Engineer:

  1. Certifications: Gaining certifications in specialized areas can boost earning potential. Certifications show expertise and dedication to the field.
  2. Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Working on diverse projects can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
  3. Skills: Developing advanced technical skills can increase value. Skills in emerging technologies can set a Systems Engineer apart.
  4. Education: Higher education can lead to better job opportunities. A master’s degree or specialized training can open doors to higher-paying roles.
  5. Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities. Attending industry events and connecting with peers can result in higher-paying positions.

Currently 2,371 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
Overview
Systems Engineer
2,371 Job Openings