As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Systems Programmer II in the United States is $96,159 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $46.
However, a Software Systems Programmer II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Software Systems Programmer II'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 Programmer II'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Software Systems Programmer I | 0-2 years | $79,480 |
| Software Systems Programmer II | 2-4 years | $96,159 |
| Software Systems Programmer III | 4-7 years | $118,450 |
| Software Systems Programmer IV | 7+ years | $138,446 |
| Software Systems Programmer V | 7-10 years | $159,377 |
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 Programmer IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 3.33% |
| Data Processing | 3.33% |
| Operating System | 3.33% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Staff Training
|
$124,045 |
29%
|
|
Python
|
$116,352 |
21%
|
|
Consulting
|
$115,391 |
20%
|
|
Configuration Management
|
$112,506 |
17%
|
|
Computer Science
|
$106,736 |
11%
|
|
Programming Language
|
$105,775 |
10%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Software Systems Programmer IIs enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate 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 Programmer II with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $84,929 and $90,184).
Software Systems Programmer II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 5.9% |
| High School | 5.9% |
| Associates | 11.8% |
| Bachelors | 47.1% |
| Masters | 35.3% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Software Systems Programmer II'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 March 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Software Systems Programmer II, 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 III | $128,715 | 34% |
| ERP Configuration Specialist III | $128,715 | 34% |
| Software Systems Engineer III | $117,850 | 23% |
| Software Systems Programmer III | $118,450 | 23% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Software Systems Programmer II and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Software Systems Programmer II'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 Programmer II earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Software Systems Programmer II is $121,285.
The highest pay for Software Systems Programmer II is $111,206.
The lowest pay for Software Systems Programmer II is $80,128.
Reviews, analyzes, develops, installs, and modifies operating systems. Detects, diagnoses, and reports related problems. Writes scripts and code to customize and configure platforms and infrastructure. Gathers and evaluates specifications and prepares technical documentation. May require a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2-4 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.)
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