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The differences between computer engineers and software systems engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 1-2 years to become a computer engineer, becoming a software systems engineer takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a software systems engineer has an average salary of $107,102, which is higher than the $96,805 average annual salary of a computer engineer.
The top three skills for a computer engineer include python, software development and java. The most important skills for a software systems engineer are java, python, and software development.
| Computer Engineer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $96,805 | $107,102 |
| Hourly rate | $46.54 | $51.49 |
| Growth rate | 10% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 126,709 | 370,518 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 73% |
| Average age | 42 | 39 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 4 |
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
A software systems engineer is responsible for designing and creating software systems applications and programs according to clients' specifications or business' needs. They work to improve the features of existing applications to boost efficiency and optimal performance. Software systems engineers manage systems configuration and structural development to develop high-quality outputs and deliverables. They also run multiple diagnostic tests to ensure smooth navigations and server transitions and identify efficient technical solutions. A software systems engineer assists the end-users with application issues, performing troubleshooting operations, and creating resolution reports for reference.
Computer engineers and software systems engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Engineer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Average salary | $96,805 | $107,102 |
| Salary range | Between $70,000 And $132,000 | Between $80,000 And $142,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Waymo | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Finance | Start-up |
There are a few differences between a computer engineer and a software systems engineer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Engineer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 66% | Bachelor's Degree, 73% |
| Most common major | Computer Engineering | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between computer engineers' and software systems engineers' demographics:
| Computer Engineer | Software Systems Engineer | |
| Average age | 42 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% | Male, 81.1% Female, 18.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% | Black or African American, 4.6% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Asian, 29.8% White, 52.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 8% |