How to become a systems engineer

Collaborate with IT professionals to design and implement computer systems.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete a bachelor's degree in computer systems engineering or related fields such as engineering, information technology or computer science.
  2. Secure an internship and gain relevant experience in the field. It may open the door to a lasting mentorship from qualified engineers.
  3. Join relevant industry bodies so you're always on-top of the latest news and opportunities.

What does a systems engineer do?

Duties and tasks

  • Plan, develop, deploy and improve computer network and system services.
  • Install upgrades to existing software and hardware.
  • Research and analyse complex system designs and architecture specifications, data models and diagrams in the development, configuration and integration of computer systems.
  • Analyse network infrastructure and systems to ensure they are configured to operate at optimal efficiency.
  • Provide ongoing technical support, troubleshooting and fault-finding services for network problems.
  • Advise on improvements to network operations and integrated hardware, software, communications and operating systems.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

Discover online data science courses

Undergraduate USA-BDA-DEG

Bachelor of Data Analytics

Postgraduate ECU-DSC-GCE

Graduate Certificate in Data Science

Postgraduate ECU-DSC-MAS

Master of Data Science

Step up your career with these resources

How to negotiate a higher salary

Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.

Is a career in project management right for you?

Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager. 

Are microcredentials worth it?

You can study a microcredential in just about any industry, from healthcare and education to business and marketing. Here’s why these skills-based short courses are worth your time.

5 qualities that make you a leader vs a manager

While managers dole out tasks, leaders take things a step further by inspiring everyone around them. Discover how you can become this kind of leader, no matter where you work.  

We're here to guide you there

Our student advisors can assist you with enrolment, help you plan your studies, and answer questions about how studying through Open Universities Australia can get you from where you are today, to where you want to be tomorrow.

13 OPEN (13 67 36)

Message, chat or SMS

Talk to a student advisor

We'll be in touch to answer your questions.

Student advisor Jason Student advisor Maria Student advisor Peter

Usually replies in 30 mins