← All careers

Technology

Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.

Median salary

$108,970

Typical range

$53k – $177k

Job outlook

+8% (faster than average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

Education

Typical entry: Associate degree

Plan my path to this →

Typical progression

  1. Junior Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

    Entry / Junior

    $52,650

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

    Established

    $108,970

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

    Senior

    $142,885

Key skills

A typical day

  • Communicate with staff or clients to understand specific system requirements.
  • Investigate system component suitability for specified purposes, and make recommendations regarding component use.
  • Provide customers or installation teams guidelines for implementing secure systems.
  • Direct the analysis, development, and operation of complete computer systems.
  • Direct the installation of operating systems, network or application software, or computer or network hardware.

Fields of study

Any field

Top colleges for Technology

Explore all

Reputation-based selection; stats shown are outcome data per school.