Computer Systems Engineers/Architects

SOC code 15-1299 · O*NET-SOC 15-1299.08 · Medium preparation needed · Computer and IT

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Computer Systems Engineers/Architects pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$116,580

a year

Hourly

$56.05

per hour

10th$55,940Median$116,58090th$188,470

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$122,230

$58.77 per hour

Middle 50%

$79,370 – $157,500

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$55,940 – $188,470

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

435,370

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

These pay and employment figures are for the broader BLS group “Computer Occupations, All Other”, not this job alone.

10th percentile: $55,940; $26.89/hr
25th percentile: $79,370; $38.16/hr
Median percentile: $116,580; $56.05/hr
75th percentile: $157,500; $75.72/hr
90th percentile: $188,470; $90.61/hr

What does a computer systems engineers/architect do?

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

The tasks that matter most day to 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.
Monitor system operation to detect potential problems.
Identify system data, hardware, or software components required to meet user needs.
Perform ongoing hardware and software maintenance operations, including installing or upgrading hardware or software.

How to become a computer systems engineers/architect

Most people in this role hold post-secondary certificate — 41% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Post-Secondary Certificate41%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree27%
Bachelor's Degree23%
Some College Courses5%

Common questions

How much does a computer systems engineers/architect earn?

The national median is $116,580 a year. The full range runs from $55,940 at the 10th percentile to $188,470 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a computer systems engineers/architect without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension4.0/5
Active Listening4.0/5
Critical Thinking4.0/5
Writing3.9/5
Speaking3.9/5
Active Learning3.6/5

Knowledge areas

Computers and Electronics4.9/5
English Language4.1/5
Telecommunications4.0/5
Customer and Personal Service3.9/5
Engineering and Technology3.8/5
Administration and Management3.3/5
Design2.9/5
Mathematics2.9/5

Transferable strengths: Systems Analysis, Systems Evaluation, Complex Problem Solving, Operations Analysis.