what is a systems engineer?
A systems engineer ensures the smooth operation of a company's information technology department. You'll examine how different online systems can be combined to meet the goals of your company. You are also responsible for determining the best technical solution based on the operating environment and company requirements.
As a systems engineer, you develop and manage all parts of a complex system that works to resolve an issue. This is from the creation of that system until the end product. The system could involve people, products, information, and services. The role of a systems engineer is to problem solve and communicate any essential findings included in the implementation and use of that system. A systems engineer works in the majority of industries, including health care, manufacturing, and computers among others. As a systems engineer you are a problem solver looking for solutions to deal with a problem.
Would working as a systems engineer suit your skill or interest? Then read on to discover what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a systems engineer role.
view jobs near youaverage systems engineer salary
The average salary of a systems engineer is approximately $89,500 per year, and a senior-level systems engineer can average up to $106,500 annually. However, factors such as geographic region and your experience could impact your pay in this role.
The size of the firm you work for would also influence your salary as well. Working for a large firm will bring you more job security, previously mentioned benefits, and an increased chance of promotion. Certain IT companies have a reputation for offering their staff higher salaries than others.
Wondering what you can earn as a systems engineer? Find out immediately with the salary comparison tool! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a systems engineer is.
types of systems engineer
The different types of system engineers include software engineers, network engineers, and database engineers. Depending on the type of systems engineer you are, the division of tasks and responsibilities is different. A systems engineer creates a system which then needs to be maintained by software engineers. As a software engineer, you develop strategies with a more significant focus on functionality and user-friendliness. Network engineers create networks, and database engineers develop databases.
working as a systems engineer
What do your daily tasks as a systems engineer include? Here are some of the duties you will be doing.
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systems engineer job description
Your tasks will occur when working in an IT department. You are responsible for programming, deploying, and maintaining systems. System engineers are a support role found in every sector of the business world. They work with different departments in the same company, such as accounting, customer service, and marketing.
A systems engineer also helps a business upgrade and transition to new systems. You can code new systems from scratch or recommend existing products that meet changing business needs and keep up with existing technology. You also keep up with technological changes in the business and computing world.
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systems engineer work environment
Systems engineers work in an office with many computer monitors and other equipment. If the business has a cloud-based system, you could also work remotely. You can work alone or collaborate with other systems engineers. When your role is higher, you may also have a team you manage. Systems engineers are commonly on call during off hours, weekends, and holidays to address emergencies to a business website or software when needed.
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who are your colleagues?
You will be working with external and internal clients. You can also work with customers in some instances. If you are working for a smaller business, you'll be reporting to the company's owner, president or CEO. If you work for a larger corporation, you are more likely to work with department heads and a team of other systems engineers.
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work schedule
More than just working hours, a systems engineer's work schedule would depend on the type of job and the division in which you work. Many systems engineers work a fairly typical work schedule of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Some may work very long hours; others may have a flexible schedule that allows time for plans for weekends and evenings.
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job outlook for systems engineers
It is expected that there will be more demand for systems engineers, with a projected 3% job growth, and that their demand would continue to rise. Companies would see the benefit of retaining their IT departments by hiring more system engineers, which would increase jobs in the profession. Systems engineers are also responsible for maintaining AI algorithms, so the need for this position would increase with the changing climate of automation.
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benefits of working for randstad as a systems engineer
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a systems engineer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers, thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad, too!
systems engineer skills and education
Systems engineers should have an educational background in computing in addition to a degree in engineering. This can be earned through a degree, though this business environment is also open to self-taught programmers. As a systems engineer, your job also requires you to be creative and practical in your problem-solving approach.
skills and competencies
Skills need to be both technical and creative. As you are responsible for helping a business team to employ different programs, you must be able to communicate ideas clearly and concisely. You would also be required to teach your colleagues how to use unfamiliar technology.
Coding languages and an understanding of the appropriate technology for your business sector are aspects you should know or be willing to learn. You should have experience in learning new technologies quickly and applying them in relevant business areas.
FAQs about working as a systems engineer
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about systems engineer jobs.
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who is qualified to work as a systems engineer?
Anyone who has a broad technical background, including hardware and software, can apply for the systems engineer job. However, having a degree in systems engineering or another tech-related major will make you more attractive to employers.
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how do I become a systems engineer?
To become a systems engineer, you need an educational background in computing along with systems engineering. This will give you the necessary skills and knowledge to apply your potential in using different computer hardware and software.
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what is the job market for systems engineers?
There is expected to be more demand for systems engineers in every business sector. The need for this job will continue to rise in the long term.
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what are some business sectors that use systems engineers?
This job is found in public sector areas such as schools, universities and government agencies. Hospitals and first responders also require functioning computer systems. Businesses require systems engineers for many areas of their daily business, including tax accounting, sales, marketing, email networks and manufacturing programs.
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how do I find a job as a systems engineer?
Applying for a systems engineer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our systems engineer jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state-of-the-art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
submit your resume
Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.
