what is a systems engineer?
A systems engineer is a professional who applies engineering principles to develop and maintain efficient systems. They play a crucial role in various industries by solving multiple problems in systems. Unlike other engineers who solve issues in independent parts, a systems engineer takes a holistic approach by studying the interconnections of systems. When a systems engineer develops a system, they ensure it provides a positive user experience while considering the company objectives and operations.
what does a systems engineer do?
As a systems engineer, you are the interface between the stakeholders in the systems development process. That means your primary role revolves around defining, developing, testing, maintaining and replacing systems. You incorporate the views of the management, end-users, specialty engineers and suppliers to create an efficient system for your employer.
Systems aren't strictly related to computers, but they rely on engineering advancements and the latest technology. As a systems engineer, you can work in computer, mechanical, electrical and manufacturing systems to ensure all the components work together and meet the needs of the consumers. You also collaborate with various departments in a company to ensure a smooth production process and proper maintenance of the existing systems.
systems engineer jobsaverage systems engineer salary
The salary of a systems engineer in Canada can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, specific industry, and the employer. On average, a systems engineer in Canada can expect to earn between CAD $70,000 to $130,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start at a lower salary range, while more experienced or senior-level professionals can earn salaries at the higher end or even beyond this range, particularly in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal.
what factors increase your salary as a systems engineer?
A systems engineer's salary depends on experience level and qualifications. At an entry-level position, you have minimal skills and work experience; hence, your pay will be low compared to experienced systems engineers. Your skill level is also based on educational qualifications or specialism. Systems engineers with a degree earn more compared to someone with an apprenticeship. If you focus on a specific study area, you are likely to make more than a general systems engineer. For instance, specializing in computer systems increases your compensation package due to the additional expertise in the area.
Your employer's location can also impact your pay. Companies in major cities pay more due to the high cost of living and increased demand for systems engineers. Smaller towns have a low cost of living and lower demand for engineers, limiting your salary prospects.
types of systems engineers
- computer systems engineer: your job is to design computer systems that fit your clients' needs. If a retail company requires a sales management system, you incorporate all the functions relevant to retail management like invoice and inventory management systems. You also advise on the best software and hardware tools for the computer system to function efficiently.
- product development systems engineer: your job is to improve product development systems to help your company remain competitive. You develop systems that eliminate inefficiencies and troubleshoot problems that affect the product's quality standards.
- biosystems engineer: as a biosystems engineer, you develop and maintain systems relating to the natural environment. Your duties may include analyzing resource conservation or waste treatment systems. You can also create food processing systems for various industries.
working as a systems engineer
Are you wondering what a systems engineer does daily? Read on to find out the work routine and duties of a systems engineer:
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systems engineer job description
Specific duties of a systems engineer depend on the industry and the stage of a project. However, some everyday tasks of a systems engineer include:
- developing systems: as a systems engineer, you oversee the development of new systems from conception of an idea to completion. Before creating a system, you liaise with the stakeholders to determine its objectives and functions. You also use modelling techniques to assess performance and value to the end-user. When you have the design concepts, you can develop the systems.
- testing and deploying systems: after creating a system, you need to evaluate its performance to ensure it accomplishes its intended purpose. During testing, you identify vulnerable areas and adjustments required to improve efficiency. Existing systems also need testing to determine the inefficiencies and improve functionality. If the new system passes all the tests, you can launch it.
- maintaining and troubleshooting issues in a system: as a systems engineer, you monitor existing systems and identify problems that affect the system's structural integrity. During maintenance, you can fix issues in the system or upgrade some parts to improve the output.
- writing reports and presenting system designs: during the design stages, you present system design ideas to the stakeholders before development. It is also crucial to write maintenance reports during system checks, troubleshooting and offering recommendations to improve efficiency.
- execution of project management tasks: as a systems engineer creating a system, you must perform project management tasks. You will develop the project plan, identify the necessary resources and assign tasks to team members to ensure the project is completed within a specific timeline.
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work environment
The work environment of a systems engineer varies depending on the roles and industry. For instance, during the design stages, a systems engineer works in an office setting alongside other engineers to develop a system's blueprints. Sometimes, you also work in a factory setting when analyzing processes or maintaining the systems used in manufacturing. In other industries, you may work outdoors developing water delivery systems, transport systems or waste management systems. You work in server rooms or handle various hardware parts in information technology settings.
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who are your colleagues?
Based on your industry, your colleagues might include mechanical engineers, cloud engineers, computer engineers and electrical engineers. You might also be working in close proximity to operations managers and systems architects, and other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, project managers, maintenance engineers, systems administrators and service desk analyst.
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work schedule
As a systems engineer, you work an average of 40 hours a week in a full-time position. However, some projects take longer to complete, and the design stage often requires long work hours, including evenings and weekends. Sometimes you also work on public holidays to fix glitches in a system or meet deadlines. Part-time positions are rare in systems engineer jobs, but you can find short-term contracts in various industries. The job involves travelling from the office to factory plants or meeting clients. Freelance opportunities are also available for systems engineers.
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job outlook
Becoming a systems engineer is a great career choice with exciting job prospects. You can become incorporated from a junior systems engineer position or achieve chartered status. With experience, it is easier to move to a managerial position like becoming a project manager, operations manager or factory manager.
You can also focus on various specialisms or industry sectors. Some systems engineers become experts in computer or manufacturing systems. Alternatively, become a consultant or a lecturer in academic institutions.
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advantages of finding a systems engineer job through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
education and skills
- bachelor’s degree: the first step in entering the field of systems engineering is earning a bachelor's degree in systems engineering or other related fields such as computer engineering or mechanical engineering. Those who pursue this career path typically study subjects such as mechanical design, computer software and hardware, and electronics. Alternatively, some professionals in this field may hold a bachelor's degree in technical fields such as computer science. Common coursework in a systems engineering bachelor's program includes physics, calculus, project management, statistics, and computer systems programming.
- master's degree: after completing a bachelor's degree, choosing to pursue a master's degree may offer greater opportunities for advancement. It is often advisable to gain some practical experience in the field before pursuing a master's degree or while working towards it. Many systems engineers who pursue a master's degree are looking to expand their career opportunities within the engineering field. As such, applicants to these graduate programs often have a clearer vision of their desired industry and tailor their studies accordingly.
- Certifications: obtaining a certification in systems engineering serves as another means to show your competence and expertise to potential employers. Several certification options in the industry include:
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
- Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)
- Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- CompTIA Network+
skills and competencies
Systems engineers require hard and soft skills, including:
- technical skills: as a systems engineer, you need technical skills role like using various software. Your job involves using modelling software, specialized equipment and multiple computer programs. Technical skills will also help you accomplish your tasks faster.
- analytical thinking: your role requires meticulous analysis of each task. For instance, you have to analyse a system as a whole or a sum of its parts before implementing changes. Analytical thinking and attention to detail help you factor in every aspect of the system before recommending alterations.
- time management: a systems engineer prioritizes tasks to meet deadlines. You are also responsible for determining project milestones and adjusting the timeline when changes occur. Your work will be easy if you have time management skills.
- teamwork skills: as a systems designer, you collaborate with various professionals, from manufacturing employees to researchers, security experts and salespeople. You need teamwork skills to offer constructive feedback and direct teams to achieve a project's objectives.
FAQs
FAQs about working as a systems engineer
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what is a systems engineer salary?
As a systems engineer, your salary ranges between $70,000 and $130,000. The compensation package often depends on your educational qualifications and experience level.
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is a systems engineer a real engineer?
A systems engineer applies engineering principles and business concepts when developing a system. However, unlike other engineers who solve problems independently, they look at system functions holistically.
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what jobs do systems engineers get?
A systems engineer works in any industry, including manufacturing plants, factories and information technology companies. You can become a computer systems engineer and maintain computer systems for various companies.
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how do I become a systems engineer?
A systems engineer needs a degree in systems engineering or a related field and a master's degree.
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is a systems engineer a good career?
A systems engineer is a promising career with exceptional opportunities for advancement. Besides, you will earn a lucrative compensation package and gain many transferable skills.
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how do I apply for a systems engineer vacancy?
Finding a job near you as a systems engineer is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
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