Hire the Best Systems Engineers

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Aleksei K.

Mexico City, Mexico

$80/hr
4.9
158 jobs

Networks look like a puzzle to most people. To me, they're just a problem I know how to solve. What I deliver: Network audits & optimization Design & migration - new builds, office expansion, hybrid/cloud Security hardening - ACLs, segmentation, firewall policies, VPNs Troubleshooting escalations - when your team is stuck, I step in. Root causes, not symptoms. Mentoring / on-call - fractional architect for teams without a full-time role Technical depth: Areas and stack: Routing & switching - Multi-vendor. Security - PFSense, OPNSense, Fortinet, Palo Alto, Cisco ASA/FTD, VPNs, segmentation Linux - Any distro, bash scripting, performance tuning Virtualization - Proxmox, VMware, Hyper-V, KVM Automation - Ansible, Terraform Observability - Zabbix, Splunk, SNMP, syslog Background: 30+ years in the field, 7 as a Cisco Networking Academy Manager and Instructor. I've designed large-scale enterprise networks for government, healthcare, and finance — example a maternity center where downtime isn't an option, campus networks for universities, and an airport-wide wireless solution. I've delivered security projects following both international best practices and local regulatory standards. I've trained and worked alongside engineers across Australia, New Zealand, the US, and beyond, and I learn as much from them as they do from me. I work self-paced, lead or go solo, and I'm still adding tools: Proxmox and Splunk a few years ago, Ansible and Terraform last year. This year I'm diving into AI infrastructure — GPU clusters, distributed training, high-throughput data pipelines. I'm also building deeper into Python and scripting to support automation and development from the ground up. How I work: Clear communication, no jargon. English fluent. Documentation-driven: diagrams, runbooks, handoff notes. Available 20–40 hrs/week. Fixed-price or hourly — whatever fits. Ready to solve your network puzzle? Send me an invite.

  • Network Security
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate
  • Network Design
  • Cisco IOS
  • Linux System Administration
  • Server Virtualization
  • OpenVPN
  • Cisco Certified Design Associate
  • Ubuntu
  • Wireless Security
  • VPN
  • Wireless Network Implementation
  • Proxmox VE
  • PfSense
Luca B.

Cuneo, Italy

$25/hr
5.0
5 jobs

I help homeowners and small businesses build smart homes based on Home Assistant and solid local server setups. My background comes from 15 years working in real security systems (alarms, fire safety, CCTV, networking, and structured cabling), first as an employee and later as a cofounder of my own company. This gives me a strong mix of real world installation experience and technical problem solving. Today I focus on: - Setting up and maintaining self-hosted Home Assistant servers (Docker, networking, backups). - Creating custom Home Assistant automations tailored to how you actually live and use your home. - Integrating devices so they can work together. - Troubleshooting connectivity, routing, and device compatibility issues. I take a practical approach and design solutions that are easy to maintain, reliable, and built around you. If you need someone who understands both the software and the wiring behind it, I can help.

  • Systems Engineering
  • Home Automation
  • Electrical Layout Design
  • Electrical Design
  • Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Systems
  • Docker Compose
Rishav S.

Moradabad, India

$40/hr
5.0
14 jobs

Exceptional people build every great business. My job is helping you find them. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, which allows me to have meaningful conversations with technical candidates before they ever reach your team. 100% Job Success Score. Top Rated Plus. If you've posted a role, reviewed hundreds of resumes, and still haven't found the right person, you're not alone. Most companies don't struggle because talent is unavailable. They struggle because finding the right person takes time, focus, and a recruiting process that actually works. For the past 5+ years, I've helped startups and growing companies across the US and Canada hire Software Engineers, AI Engineers, Product Managers, Sales Professionals, and leadership talent. My clients include British Petroleum (BP), JBS USA, Lovelytics, Cardinal IP, Navless.ai, FrankCrum, Datronix Solutions, Metropolitan Airports Commission, SZCO Supplies, and Attoro. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, which allows me to have meaningful conversations with technical candidates before they ever reach your team. Instead of relying solely on resumes and keyword matching, I focus on understanding whether someone can actually perform in the role and succeed within your environment. One client came to me after a Full Stack Developer search had stalled for weeks. Within 41 hours, I delivered a vetted shortlist, and interviews were underway. Across my searches, roles are typically filled in around two weeks because I focus on candidate quality from the start rather than overwhelming clients with large volumes of resumes. Hiring has become more complicated than ever. Fake candidates, proxy interviews, and AI-assisted interview fraud have become common, particularly in technical hiring. Every candidate I present is personally screened through a live video interview before being submitted, helping clients avoid costly mistakes and wasted interview time. I work directly with founders, CEOs, and hiring managers throughout the hiring process, from understanding the role to closing the successful candidate. Using LinkedIn Recruiter Corporate and a network of more than 8,000 founders, hiring managers, and experienced professionals, I'm able to reach talent that often isn't actively applying for jobs. Specializations include Software Engineering Recruitment, AI and Machine Learning Hiring, Full Stack Development Recruitment, Product Management Hiring, Sales Recruitment, Executive Search, Startup Hiring, SaaS Recruitment, Engineering Leadership Hiring, and Technical Talent Acquisition across the United States and Canada. 100% Job Success Score. Top Rated Plus. If you're hiring for a technical or leadership role, send me the details. I'll give you an honest assessment of the market, the challenges I see, and how I would approach the search.

  • LinkedIn Recruiting
  • Boolean Search
  • Recruiting
  • IT Recruiting
  • Candidate Sourcing
  • Candidate Interviewing
  • Recruiting Process Consulting
  • Applicant Tracking Systems
  • Resume Screening
  • Job Posting
  • Candidate Evaluation
  • Phone Communication
  • Cold Calling
  • Executive Search
  • Internet Recruiting
Kyle E.

Elsberry, Missouri

$130/hr
4.8
416 jobs

With over a decade in IT and a specialization in Jamf and mobile device management, I deliver top-notch expertise to streamline your deployments and automation processes. 🥇Expert-Vetted ✅ Highest earnings & rating for Jamf Freelancer ✅ 100+ Jamf Pro deployments ✅ 60+ Intune deployments ⚙️ Zero-Touch Deployments: Expert in macOS setups with DEPNotify & Jamf Connect Notify ⚙️ Advanced Scripting: Enhance Jamf workflows with custom scripts ⚙️ Jamf Connect & SSO Integration: Seamless workflows with Okta, Entra ID, and GSuite ⚙️ Custom Scripting & pkg Creation: Tailored solutions for your unique needs 💼 Okta SSO | 💼 Entra ID SSO | 💼 Google Workspace Federation ⏱ Full-time Independent Freelancer 🏢 Supporting deployments and automation for 5 large Jamf MSPs. 🗣 Communication is key – I prioritize clear and consistent communication to ensure project success. A diverse Systems Engineer with 11+ years of experience in developing and maintaining IT systems, and 10 years of experience in mobile device management. Technical expertise spreads across server and backup administration, cloud security, software support, asset management, vendor management, and customer support. Specializes in saving man-hours and money for the enterprise.

  • Systems Engineering
  • Microsoft Windows PowerShell
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Mobile Device Management
  • Mac OS X Administration
  • Solution Architecture Consultation
  • Technical Support
  • OKTA
  • JAMF
  • Microsoft Intune
  • macOS
  • Microsoft Endpoint Manager
  • Scripting
  • Mobile Device Management Software
  • Microsoft Power Automate
Dan Emerson D.

Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines

$10/hr
5.0
13 jobs

I am an IT Support Specialist and Cloud Systems Administrator specializing in Infrastructure Operations. I bridge the gap between traditional hardware and modern cloud environments, ensuring your tech stack runs seamlessly without downtime. From managing virtual servers to configuring enterprise workspaces and troubleshooting hardware bottlenecks, I handle your IT operations so you can focus on scaling. 🛠️ Direct Services & Expertise Cloud & Infrastructure: Provisioning Virtual Machines (VMs), firewalls, Linux Server Administration (CLI maintenance), and Web/App Deployment. Workspace & Identity: Full tenant setup and migrations for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, including user provisioning and access control. Domain & DNS Management: Expert configuration via Cloudflare, nameserver routing, and vital email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) for flawless deliverability. Desktop & Peripheral Support: Advanced hardware troubleshooting, network connectivity, and driver configuration for specialized/large-format enterprise printing. 🌟 Why Work With Me? Full-Stack IT Support: I provide end-to-end technical coverage—from high-level cloud architecture and workspace administration to hands-on desktop software configuration and hardware troubleshooting. Clear Communication: I deliver fast, reliable updates, translating complex technical infrastructure and hardware issues into clear, actionable terms for non-technical clients and executive teams. 🎯 Client Focus I act as your complete, on-demand IT department for growing businesses and digital agencies. Let's optimize your technology and operations today. Click "Invite to Job" to get started!

  • Graphic Design
  • Remote Connection Support
  • Hardware Troubleshooting
  • Computer Hardware Installation
  • Operating System
  • Troubleshooting
  • Software
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Canva
  • Computer Maintenance
  • Laser Printer
  • Inkjet Printer
  • Dye-Sublimation Printer
Mohamad Tarek K.

Beirut, Lebanon

$40/hr
5.0
66 jobs

I’m a systems engineer with strong expertise in web development, IT support, and process automation. I bring a proven track record of solving complex IT challenges, streamlining workflows, and delivering reliable technical solutions that keep businesses running smoothly. 💡 What I Do Best: • Solution Delivery: Deploying and configuring customized hardware and software solutions. • Cloud & Productivity Tools: Administration and configuration of Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 (Entra ID, Exchange, Teams). • Web Development: Building and maintaining websites with Webflow, WordPress (CMS), PHP, HTML, CSS, JavaScript. • Automation: Creating shell and Python scripts to eliminate repetitive tasks and boost efficiency. • Server & Database Management: Managing Linux servers (CentOS, Debian, Ubuntu) and administering Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL databases. • Cloud Hosting: AWS hosting setup, integration, and migrations. • Collaboration Platforms: Slack administration and API integrations. • Technical Support: Expert troubleshooting for both software and hardware issues. ✅ I’m a skilled problem solver who adapts quickly, ensures smooth IT operations, and is driven to achieve results. Whether it’s setting up infrastructure, supporting your team, or building digital tools, I deliver solutions that fit your needs.

  • Product Installation Support
  • Incident Management
  • Linux System Administration
  • Bash Programming
  • Google Workspace Administration
  • Red Hat Administration
  • Windows Server
  • Help Desk Technology International ServicePRO
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Python Script
  • IT Consultation
  • Microsoft SCCM
  • Microsoft Active Directory
  • Automation
  • n8n

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How to Hire Top Systems Engineers

SYSTEMS ENGINEERS

What is systems engineering? 

Systems engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the design and management of complex systems. These systems could include anything from SaaS (software as a service) solutions to networks of IoT (Internet of Things) devices.

Here’s a quick overview of the skills you should look for in systems engineering professionals:

  • Systems engineering
  • Systems administration
  • Cloud infrastructure

Why do you want to hire systems engineers?

The trick to finding top systems engineers is to identify your needs. Is your goal to find someone to help you migrate your enterprise web app to a microservices architecture? Or do you require an embedded systems expert to design the PCB (printed circuit board) architecture of your consumer electronics product? The cost of your project will depend largely on your scope of work and the specific skills needed to bring your project to life.

HOW TO HIRE SYSTEMS ENGINEERS

Systems engineers can help you design, maintain, and improve your hardware and software systems.

So how do you hire systems engineers? What follows are some tips for finding top systems engineers on Upwork.

How to shortlist systems engineering professionals

As you’re browsing available systems engineering consultants, it can be helpful to develop a shortlist of the professionals you may want to interview. You can screen profiles on criteria such as:

  • Technology fit. You want a systems engineer who understands the technologies behind your systems engineering project.
  • Project experience. Screen candidate profiles for specific skills and experience (e.g., working with hypervisors such as VMware).
  • Feedback. Check reviews from past clients for glowing testimonials or red flags that can tell you what it’s like to work with a particular systems engineer.

How to write an effective systems engineering job post

With a clear picture of your ideal systems engineer in mind, it’s time to write that job post. Although you don’t need a full job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.

An effective systems engineering job post should include:

  • Scope of work: From cloud storage solutions to IoT networks, list all the deliverables you’ll need.
  • Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a smaller or larger project.
  • Background: If you prefer experience with certain industries, software, or technologies, mention this here.
  • Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.

Ready to launch your systems engineering project? Log in and post your systems engineering job on Upwork today.

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  1. Identify your project needs, whether it’s database management or network security.
  2. Define the scope of work and write a detailed job post. Be specific about deliverables (e.g., automating business processes with software solutions in an enterprise setting).
  3. Review proposals and shortlist potential systems engineers for unique skills needed to bring your project to life (e.g., Amazon Web Services).
  4. Interview systems engineering talent to gauge whether they’re the right fit for your project.

FAQS FOR HIRING SYSTEMS ENGINEERS

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to hire a systems engineer?

Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.

  • An experienced systems engineer may command higher fees but also work faster, have more-specialized areas of expertise, and deliver higher-quality work.
  • A contractor who is still in the process of building a client base may price their systems engineering services more competitively.

Which one is right for you will depend on the specifics of your project.

How long should you contract a systems engineer to complete your project?

As difficult as it is to estimate how long you will need a systems engineer, budgeting time is very important to keeping your project on track.

Be prepared to budget more time for more-demanding systems engineering projects. For example, designing an architecture for a basic web app will typically take less time than designing a server-side solution for an enterprise web app.

What are the steps involved to hire systems engineers?

Here’s how to hire systems engineering consultants in four simple steps: