TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years

Mid Level Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary in San Francisco

2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.

$215,441/yr

Typical range: $180,971 $286,190

P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$154,754$12,896
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$191,166$15,931+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$215,441$17,953+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$249,427$20,786+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$336,817$28,068+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$422,387$35,199+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$443,779$36,982+187%
Current Salary
$215,441
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $104/hr
Next Level Target
$249,427
Senior · 6
+$34Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
91/100
Exceptional
+42% demand · Low AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mid level Autonomous Systems Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?

Mid Level Autonomous Systems Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $215K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.

How much does a mid level Autonomous Systems Engineer make per hour in San Francisco, CA?

Based on $215K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $104/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from mid level to senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in San Francisco, CA?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $286K–$352K/yr.