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.

$273,245/yr

Typical range: $229,526 $362,976

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$196,275$16,356
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$242,457$20,205+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$273,245$22,770+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$316,348$26,362+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$427,186$35,599+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$535,714$44,643+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$562,846$46,904+187%
Current Salary
$273,245
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $131/hr
Next Level Target
$316,348
Senior · 6
+$43Kpotential 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 $273K 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 $273K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $131/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 $363K–$446K/yr.