▼23%
$161,718
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$124k
MEDIAN
$162k
90%
$189k
The average salary for a Senior Systems Engineer is $161,718 in 2025
Base Salary
$124k - $189k
Bonus
$5k - $17k
Profit Sharing
$5k - $33k
Total Pay
$126k - $222k
Is Average Experienced Senior Systems Engineer with Systems Engineering Skills Salary in San Jose, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Senior Systems Engineers?
What Do Senior Systems Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Senior Systems Engineer
Medical
88%
Dental
82%
Vision
82%
None
12%
Gender Breakdown for Senior Systems Engineers
Male
81.8%
Female
18.2%
This data is based on 11 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Senior Systems Engineers
What is the highest pay for Senior Systems Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Senior Systems Engineer in San Jose is $189k / year
What is the lowest pay for Senior Systems Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Senior Systems Engineer in San Jose is $124k / year
How can Senior Systems Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Senior 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 Senior Systems Engineer that oversees more junior Senior Systems Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.