Systems Engineer: Job Description, Salary and Career Guide

As organizations across industries rely on more sophisticated IT infrastructures, the demand for skilled systems engineers is rising. These professionals are responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining complex, integrated systems that support seamless business operations. From healthcare to manufacturing, systems engineers bridge the gap between technical expertise and operational needs, tackling challenges ranging from network maintenance and data security to software development. 

According to recent data from Glassdoor, systems engineers in the United States earn an average annual salary of $109,882, highlighting just how in-demand this role is. This guide explores what goes into an eye-catching systems engineer job description, what responsibilities and skills to include and how to offer career advancement opportunities and perks that make working for your tech company more desirable. 

What Does a Systems Engineer Do?

Systems engineers build, maintain and optimize complex IT infrastructures to meet organizational needs. Often, they serve as the linchpin that connects different departments and project phases, working seamlessly across all levels of a business to solve critical challenges in network management, data security and systems integration. 

They’re often seen as the Marines of an organization because they’re typically the first people assigned challenging projects, usually work more than 50 hours per week and may travel frequently to oversee system implementations. Expect professional systems engineers to dress in formal business attire since they have an active role in guiding projects and representing management. Here are some tasks you might add to a systems engineer job description:

• Designing and implementing IT systems and infrastructure 
• Analyzing and optimizing system performance
• Troubleshooting hardware and software issues
• Managing system security and data protection
• Coordinating with cross-functional teams
• Providing technical support and guidance

Systems Engineer Job Responsibilities

A systems engineer’s responsibilities span a wide range of complex tasks that can vary based on industry and organization size, including:

• Conducting system analysis and performance tuning: Systems engineers analyze system performance and optimize components for maximum efficiency and reliability.
• Managing and upgrading hardware and software components: Regular updates and proactive upgrades maintain system stability and security.
• Implementing security measures and backup strategies: From data protection protocols to disaster recovery, systems engineers safeguard operations.
• Collaborating with other IT professionals and stakeholders: Systems engineers work closely with cross-functional teams to provide cohesive system integration.
• Designing, implementing and maintaining complex IT systems: Systems engineers build robust infrastructures that meet organizational goals and adapt to changing requirements.
• Providing technical support and troubleshooting: When issues arise, systems engineers act swiftly to diagnose and resolve problems.
• Developing and maintaining documentation for systems and processes: Clear documentation supports system upkeep and knowledge sharing within the organization.
• Staying updated with the latest technological advancements: Continuous learning enables systems engineers to implement cutting-edge solutions.
• Managing system integration and data migration projects: They oversee complex transitions that require careful planning and risk mitigation.
• Conducting risk assessments and implementing disaster recovery plans: Systems engineers develop strategies to address potential failures and build resilience.

Systems Engineer Qualifications and Skills (Education, Experience, Certifications and Licensing Requirements)

The right systems engineer candidate will have a solid educational foundation, hands-on experience, specialized certifications and impressive technical and interpersonal skills. Here are some systems engineer skills and qualifications to look for:

Education

Successful systems engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, systems engineering or a related field. Some companies may prefer candidates with a master’s degree for more advanced roles. 

Experience

Systems engineers typically have between three and five years of experience in IT or systems engineering. They should be proficient with popular operating systems, networking protocols and database management systems as well as have experience with troubleshooting and performance tuning.

Certifications

Some of the most common certifications for systems engineers include:

• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
• Cisco Certified Network Associate
• CompTIA A #43; and Network #43;
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional
• Certified Systems Engineering Professional

Skills

Systems engineers’ skills are a mix of soft skills and technical skills, including:

• Project management
• Risk assessment
• Disaster recovery
• Software development
• Data architecture
• Cloud computing
• Networking
• Scripting
• Communication
• Analytical thinking
• Organization
• Time management

Systems Engineer Potential Projects

Throughout a systems engineer’s career, they may work on a variety of complex and impactful projects across industries, which requires them to be adaptable. From technical implementations to large-scale systems integration, here are examples of projects they might work on:

• Designing and overseeing the integration of propulsion systems, focusing on energy efficiency and compliance with maritime safety standards.
• Developing and implementing automated test setups for semiconductor production to enhance precision and scalability in high-demand environments.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate subsystems in aerospace applications, from avionics to navigation systems.
• Participating in drafting and reviewing proposals, helping secure substantial projects by aligning technical solutions with client needs.

Systems Engineer Salary Expectations

The demand for skilled systems engineers is steadily rising, with an average salary of $109,882 per year. Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in architecture and engineering to grow faster than the average for all jobs from 2023 to 2033. The Bureau projects 195,000 new job openings in these fields each year. The creation of new jobs and the need to replace retiring workers fuels this increase. 

Systems Engineer Work Hours and Benefits

Systems engineers typically follow a Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 schedule, but they may take on evening or weekend hours depending on project demands. Benefits can vary widely, but some common job perks include:

• Flexible schedule: Some industries, such as defense or government roles, may offer 9/80 schedules (with every other Friday off) and rarely require paid overtime, supporting better work-life balance.
• Alternative schedule: In operational roles, such as remote mining, systems engineers may have unique schedules, such as 8/6 (a week on, a week off) or 4 days on/3 off, providing extended time off for work-life flexibility.
• Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off are standard. Some employers offer additional perks such as tuition reimbursement for continuing education, gym memberships and wellness programs, reflecting the growing emphasis on holistic employee well-being in tech roles.

Hire Systems Engineers Today

Since systems engineers are in such high demand, it’s important to dial in your job description, application materials and employer branding to attract the right candidates. Here are some qualities to look for when you start interviewing:

• Certifications that show a desire to continue learning
• Clear communication and collaboration skills
• Technical knowledge and previous work experience

If you’re recruiting systems engineers or other tech professionals, explore Dice’s hiring solutions to streamline your hiring process and build your dream team.