Pay by Role
Switzerland · Salary comparison

Software Engineer vs Systems Administrator salary

In Switzerland, a software engineer earns about 12% more than a systems administrator $161,870 vs $144,571 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CHF). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Technology
Software Engineer
$161,870/yr
Monthly
$13,469
Hourly
$78
Range
$103,548$233,044
10-yr outlook
+17%
Technology
Systems Administrator
$144,571/yr
Monthly
$12,109
Hourly
$69
Range
$100,335$198,693
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileSoftware EngineerSystems Administrator
Entry (10th)$103,548$100,335
25th$132,709$122,453
Median$161,870$144,571
75th$197,457$171,632
Senior (90th)$233,044$198,693

National Switzerland figures in CHF. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a software engineer or systems administrator earn more in Switzerland?
A software engineer earns more, at about CHF 131'000 per year vs CHF 117'000 for a systems administrator — roughly 12% (CHF 14'000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Switzerland?
A software engineer typically earns CHF 83'800–CHF 188'600, while a systems administrator earns CHF 81'200–CHF 160'800 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Switzerland?
On a monthly basis before tax, a software engineer averages about CHF 10'900 and a systems administrator about CHF 9'800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Switzerland, a software engineer earns about CHF 83'800 while a systems administrator earns about CHF 81'200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Switzerland, a software engineer earns about CHF 188'600 while a systems administrator earns about CHF 160'800 per year.
Are software engineer and systems administrator similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.