As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Systems Engineer III in Java, VA is $105,854 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $51.
However, a Software Systems Engineer III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Software Systems Engineer III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Software Systems Engineer III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Software Systems Engineer III | $102,182 |
| Intermediate Level Software Systems Engineer III | $102,794 |
| Senior Level Software Systems Engineer III | $104,018 |
| Specialist Level Software Systems Engineer III | $108,718 |
| Expert Level Software Systems Engineer III | $111,295 |
What Am I Worth?
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 7.66% |
| Python | 2.51% |
| Kubernetes | 1.73% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Kubernetes
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
|
Agile
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
|
DevOps
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
|
Systems Architecture
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
|
AWS
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
|
Risk Management
|
$107,971 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Software Systems Engineer III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Software Systems Engineer III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Software Systems Developer IV | $128,549 | 21% |
| ERP Configuration Specialist IV | $133,854 | 26% |
| Software Systems Engineer IV | $129,520 | 22% |
| Software Systems Programmer IV | $124,346 | 17% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Software Systems Engineer III job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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