As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Systems Engineer IV in the United States is $144,199 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $69.
However, a Software Systems Engineer IV's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Software Systems Engineer IV'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, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Software Systems Engineer IV'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 IV | $139,792 |
| Intermediate Level Software Systems Engineer IV | $140,422 |
| Senior Level Software Systems Engineer IV | $141,051 |
| Specialist Level Software Systems Engineer IV | $143,318 |
| Expert Level Software Systems Engineer IV | $148,146 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Software Systems Engineer IVs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 8.39% |
| Active Directory | 2.19% |
| Installation | 1.83% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Program Management
|
$152,851 |
6%
|
|
Systems Architecture
|
$149,967 |
4%
|
|
Open Source
|
$149,967 |
4%
|
|
PowerShell
|
$149,967 |
4%
|
|
System Integration
|
$148,525 |
3%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$148,525 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Software Systems Engineer IVs enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Software Systems Engineer IV with a No Diploma is between $128,486 and $135,913).
Software Systems Engineer IV Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 4.1% |
| High School | 16.3% |
| Associates | 6.1% |
| Bachelors | 55.1% |
| Masters | 16.3% |
| Doctorate | 2.0% |
Understanding how a Software Systems Engineer IV'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 IV, 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 V | $165,868 | 15% |
| ERP Configuration Manager | $143,750 | 0% |
| Software Systems Engineer V | $165,273 | 15% |
| Software Systems Programmer V | $159,367 | 11% |
Salaries for a Software Systems Engineer IV can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $136,453 in 2023 to around $136,201 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Software Systems Engineer IV salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $136,453 |
| 2024 | $137,299 |
| 2025 | $136,201 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Software Systems Engineer IV's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Software Systems Engineer IV earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Software Systems Engineer IV is $181,878.
The highest pay for Software Systems Engineer IV is $162,910.
The lowest pay for Software Systems Engineer IV is $128,082.
Designs, develops, supports, and maintains the organization's systems infrastructure. Writes code that ensures functionality of operating systems, drivers, and utility tools. Updates system related installation documentation and performs end-user support. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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