▼7%
$129,723
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$102k
MEDIAN
$130k
90%
$172k
The average salary for a Principal Systems Engineer is $129,723 in 2025
Base Salary
$102k - $172k
Bonus
$0 - $5k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $4k
Total Pay
$103k - $174k
Is Average Experienced Principal Systems Engineer with Systems Engineering Skills Salary in San Diego, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Systems Engineers?
▲23%
What Do Principal Systems Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Systems Engineer
Medical
100%
Dental
100%
Vision
100%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Systems Engineers
Male
100.0%
This data is based on 3 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Systems Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Systems Engineers in San Diego?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Systems Engineer in San Diego is $172k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Systems Engineers in San Diego?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Systems Engineer in San Diego is $102k / year
How can Principal Systems Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Systems Engineer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Systems Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Systems Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.