What's the difference between systems engineer and systems administrator?

Systems engineers focus on design, architecture, and implementation of new systems. Systems administrators focus on day-to-day maintenance and operations. Engineers typically earn more and handle more complex projects.

What salary can systems engineers expect?

Systems engineer salaries range from $85k for mid-level to $160k+ for senior engineers. Defense, government, and large enterprises pay the most.

What skills do systems engineer jobs require?

Linux and Windows Server, virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), automation (Ansible, Puppet), networking, and scripting. Systems thinking and troubleshooting are essential.

1,163+ JobsUpdated Mar 24, 2026

Systems Engineer Jobs

Systems engineers design, implement, and maintain the IT infrastructure that organizations depend on. These positions bridge hardware, software, networking, and cloud - ensuring systems are reliable, secure, and scalable. It's a senior-track alternative to systems administration.

Get AI-Matched Jobs

Salary Range

$50k – $230k

Top Companies

Leidos, SAIC, telesat, Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, Booz Allen Hamilton, Amentum +33 more

Job Types

88% Full Time, 10% Contract, 2% Internship

Top Locations

Washington, District of Columbia, CA, Arlington, Toronto, Ontario

Work Model

82% On-Site, 18% Hybrid

Experience Levels

52% Mid Level, 22% Senior, 12% Junior

We found 1,163 systems engineer jobs currently hiring in locations including Washington, District of Columbia, CA, Arlington. Salaries range from $50k to $230k based on experience, location, and company size. Work arrangements include On-Site (82%), Hybrid (18%). Top employers include Leidos, SAIC, telesat and 36 other companies.

Companies Hiring for Systems Engineer Jobs

Leidos3 jobs

SAIC3 jobs

telesat2 jobs

Stockhouse Publishing Ltd2 jobs

Booz Allen Hamilton2 jobs

Amentum2 jobs

+33 more companies hiring. Sign up to see all.

Career Path & Salary Progression

Intern

Salary varies

2 jobs

Junior

$75k–$115k

6 jobs

Mid Level

$80k–$134k

26 jobs

Senior

$120k–$155k

11 jobs

Lead

Salary varies

2 jobs

Staff

Salary varies

1 job

Latest Jobs Added

Senior Network Engineer - Remote

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Systems Engineer Jobs

Companies Hiring for Systems Engineer Jobs

Career Path & Salary Progression

Latest Jobs Added

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AI Systems Engineer and Solutions Architect

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