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The differences between senior firmware engineers and senior systems engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a senior firmware engineer and a senior systems engineer. Additionally, a senior firmware engineer has an average salary of $123,759, which is higher than the $108,121 average annual salary of a senior systems engineer.
The top three skills for a senior firmware engineer include python, SPI and embedded systems. The most important skills for a senior systems engineer are architecture, linux, and java.
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Senior Systems Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $123,759 | $108,121 |
| Hourly rate | $59.50 | $51.98 |
| Growth rate | 21% | 21% |
| Number of jobs | 58,307 | 166,742 |
| Job satisfaction | 4 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
As a senior firmware engineer, you will be in charge of designing software models such as special monitors, device drivers, and application firmware. You often need to test various software programs to improve the functionality of the products. You need to test the algorithms as well as optimize the products for the target audience. The algorithms which you structure should have practical applications so that the clients will meet their needs.
You also need to participate in the research and development process of the company so that you can understand the various requirements. From this discussion, you can create innovative ideas for the improvement of the products. Extensive knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, PCI, Linux, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering or a related field is required to qualify for this position.
A senior systems engineer specializes in overseeing network systems, management tools, software, and hardware within a company or an organization. Their primary responsibility is to install, maintain, and resolve complex system issues using their years of extensive knowledge and expertise. They can also provide insights, troubleshooting, and technical support should it be needed. Furthermore, as a senior systems engineer, it is also their responsibility to lead, supervise, and coordinate with a team of skilled system engineers while in adherence to company policies and regulations.
Senior firmware engineers and senior systems engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Senior Systems Engineer | |
| Average salary | $123,759 | $108,121 |
| Salary range | Between $94,000 And $161,000 | Between $82,000 And $141,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Redwood City, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Washington |
| Best paying company | Apple | Roku |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Retail |
There are a few differences between a senior firmware engineer and a senior systems engineer in terms of educational background:
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Senior Systems Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineering |
| Most common college | Harvard University | California State University - Long Beach |
Here are the differences between senior firmware engineers' and senior systems engineers' demographics:
| Senior Firmware Engineer | Senior Systems Engineer | |
| Average age | 39 | 39 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.0% Female, 10.0% | Male, 88.6% Female, 11.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.5% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.2% Asian, 30.9% White, 51.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 4.3% Unknown, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 8.1% Asian, 30.0% White, 52.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 8% |