Systems Engineer Salary in San Jose, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Systems Engineer make in San Jose, CA?

The average salary for a Systems Engineer is $144,997 per year in San Jose, CA.

In San Jose, CA, Systems Engineers enjoy a rewarding salary landscape. The average yearly salary for a Systems Engineer in this tech-savvy city is approximately $144,997. This number reflects the high demand for skilled professionals in the area, particularly in the bustling Silicon Valley.


Starting salaries can vary, with entry-level positions earning around $65,020. As Systems Engineers gain experience, their salaries typically rise significantly. For instance, those with a few years of experience can command salaries near $114,651. Mid-career professionals often earn between $131,195 and $164,282.


For those who reach senior-level or specialized roles, the earnings can soar even higher. Salaries can climb to $213,913 and beyond, peaking at around $247,000 for top-tier positions. This range not only highlights the potential for growth in a Systems Engineering career but also underscores the value placed on technical expertise in one of the country’s leading technology hubs.

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What are the highest paying cities for Systems Engineer near San Jose, CA?

Job seekers looking for high-paying Systems Engineer positions near San Jose, CA, should consider Cupertino, which offers the highest average salary at $202,222. Los Gatos and Santa Clara follow closely with impressive salaries of $188,421 and $175,748, respectively. Other cities like Sunnyvale and Menlo Park also provide attractive pay, making this region a great choice for ambitious professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Engineer jobs near San Jose, CA, highlighting Cupertino, CA with the highest at $202,222 and Newark, CA with the lowest at $145,333.
  1. Cupertino, CA
    Average Salary: $202,222
    Working in Cupertino offers exciting opportunities in technology and innovation. With companies like Apple headquartered here, professionals can be part of cutting-edge projects and collaborate with talented teams.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Cupertino, CA


  2. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $188,421
    Los Gatos provides a great environment for those in tech roles. The area is home to Netflix, allowing engineers to work on systems that support streaming services enjoyed by millions.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  3. Santa Clara, CA
    Average Salary: $175,748
    Santa Clara is a hub for technology, filled with opportunities in various industries. Companies like Intel and NVIDIA provide a dynamic atmosphere for engineers to thrive and push the boundaries of innovation.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA


  4. Sunnyvale, CA
    Average Salary: $172,504
    Sunnyvale features a vibrant tech scene with numerous companies like Yahoo and Juniper Networks. Engineers here tackle exciting challenges that impact technology and communication worldwide.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  5. Menlo Park, CA
    Average Salary: $160,033
    Menlo Park is well-known for its connection to Facebook. Professionals here engage in innovative projects that shape social connectivity and enhance user experiences.
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  6. Mountain View, CA
    Average Salary: $156,827
    Mountain View is a leading tech center, home to Google. Being part of this environment allows engineers to work on groundbreaking technology that influences millions of users daily.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Mountain View, CA


  7. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $154,923
    Palo Alto is a prestigious area rich in tech history. With Stanford University nearby, professionals can engage in research and collaborate with startups and established firms alike, driving innovation.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  8. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $150,833
    Saratoga offers a quieter, suburban feel while still being close to tech giants. Here, engineers can enjoy a balanced life while contributing to significant projects with nearby companies.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Saratoga, CA


  9. Stanford, CA
    Average Salary: $146,588
    Stanford's proximity to the university attracts a blend of talent and innovation. Engineers have the chance to participate in research and findings that can lead to profound advancements in technology.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Stanford, CA


  10. Newark, CA
    Average Salary: $145,333
    Newark is part of the growing tech corridor in the Bay Area. Engineers can explore new opportunities as more companies expand their operations, creating a range of possibilities to drive progress.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Newark, CA

What are the best paying companies for Systems Engineer in San Jose, CA?

In San Jose, CA, several companies offer top salaries for Systems Engineers. Palo Alto Networks leads the way with an impressive average salary of $221,140, followed closely by NetApp and Adobe, which pay around $203,167 and $201,950, respectively. Joining these industry leaders can provide both financial rewards and exciting career opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $221,140 and Broadcom with the lowest at $154,625.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $221,140
    Palo Alto Networks focuses on cybersecurity solutions. Systems Engineers here play a vital role in designing and implementing security products. The company operates in different areas of San Jose and promotes innovation in a fast-paced environment.


  2. NetApp
    Average Salary: $203,167
    NetApp specializes in data management and storage solutions. Systems Engineers engage in developing products that help businesses manage their data efficiently. The company has a strong presence in San Jose, working on cutting-edge technology.


  3. Adobe
    Average Salary: $201,950
    Adobe is known for creative software products like Photoshop and Acrobat. Systems Engineers here support the infrastructure for these applications, ensuring they run smoothly. Adobe has several offices in San Jose, fostering a creative and collaborative work environment.


  4. Nutanix
    Average Salary: $198,525
    Nutanix develops cloud computing solutions. Systems Engineers contribute to the design and management of scalable systems. Located in San Jose, Nutanix values teamwork and innovation as it continues to grow in the tech space.


  5. Hewlett Packard Enterprise | HPE
    Average Salary: $196,150
    Hewlett Packard Enterprise provides enterprise technology solutions. Systems Engineers at HPE work on hardware and software systems that drive businesses. HPE has significant operations in San Jose, focusing on making technology accessible to various industries.


  6. Lyten
    Average Salary: $194,000
    Lyten specializes in advanced materials and battery technology. Systems Engineers here help develop and implement technologies that improve energy efficiency. The company is located in San Jose and embraces innovation in an emerging market.


  7. Micron Technology, Inc.
    Average Salary: $188,809
    Micron Technology is a leader in memory and storage solutions. Systems Engineers support the development of these technologies, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. With operations in San Jose, Micron focuses on advanced technology for better user experiences.


  8. Cadence Design Systems
    Average Salary: $174,500
    Cadence Design Systems provides tools for electronic design automation. Systems Engineers here play a crucial role in enhancing software solutions for designers and engineers. The company operates in San Jose, promoting creativity and technical excellence.


  9. Cisco
    Average Salary: $165,375
    Cisco is known for networking hardware and telecommunications equipment. Systems Engineers work on developing systems that ensure connectivity and security. Cisco's strong presence in San Jose makes it a key player in technology innovation.


  10. Broadcom
    Average Salary: $154,625
    Broadcom focuses on semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. Systems Engineers play a key role in product development and optimization. Based in San Jose, Broadcom continuously pushes the boundaries of technology in a competitive market.

There are 3,006 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.
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Systems Engineer
3,006 Job Openings
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