How To Become A Computer Systems Engineer: What It Is and Career Path

What is a computer systems engineer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted experts

Andrea Welker Ph.D.,

Dr. Pauline Mosley

A computer systems engineer designs, tests, and assesses software and computer technology to create a secure and stable system for clients. By utilizing their in-depth knowledge in computer processes and applications, they maintain network connectivity and keep security measures in place.

The responsibilities of a computer systems engineer include developing computer systems, troubleshooting system issues, and making recommendations to enhance the existing programs. They manage user interface and overall system capabilities. This management includes establishing and verifying the systems' effectiveness and reliability. It is also the task of a computer systems engineer to provide clients with guidelines about the appropriate use of online applications. They address and resolve minor and major technical issues within a reasonable time.

People in this position must have an extensive background in software and hardware solutions, computer science, and mathematical analysis. Employers usually look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering. The career areas for this position are wide-ranging. Computer systems engineers may work in the government, telecommunications, manufacturing, transportation, or other commercial industries.

What general advice would you give to a computer systems engineer?

Andrea Welker Ph.D.

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, College of Engineering Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Villanova University

Be open to new experiences. Find a good mentor. Become a valued employee. Always remember that you are designing something for someone.

ScoreComputer Systems EngineerUS Average

Salary

6.0

Avg. Salary $76,534

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.7

Growth rate 5%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.6

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%

Asian 13.07%

Black or African American 8.25%

Hispanic or Latino 11.96%

Unknown 5.03%

White 61.38%

Gender

female 13.25%

male 86.75%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress level

5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.7

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

7.1

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a computer systems engineer

Explore computer systems engineer education requirements

Most common computer systems engineer degrees

Bachelor's

63.5 %

Associate

18.4 %

Master's

12.6 %

Start to develop specific computer systems engineer skills

Skills	Percentages
Computer System	11.77%
Python	10.99%
C++	9.36%
Linux	7.97%
Java	4.90%

Complete relevant computer systems engineer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer systems engineers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer systems engineer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer systems engineer resumes.

Research computer systems engineer duties and responsibilities

Manage SQL and FoxPro databases.
Manage & monitor database servers and perform weekly/monthly data backup schedules and recovery strategies.
Maintain PC and UNIX hardware and operating systems and function as a UNIX administrator.
Design and implement a 100Base-T network and T1 DSU/CSU connection, replacing an archaic token ring LAN infrastructure.

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