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On Call Operating System Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

... operating system security management, installation, configuration, upgrade of a multi-platform ... Function as a member of the team responsible for the day-to-day, 24x7x365 on-call system ...

... operating system security management, installation, configuration, upgrade of a multi-platform ... 24x7x365 on-call system administration, and touch labor operations. To be considered for this ...

Senior Systems Administrator

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$83K - $112K/yr

Includes Hypervisor (Currently VMWare/Hyper-V), Linux, and Windows. • Installs system software and operating systems for the college's computing systems. • Performs system programming tasks to ...

The System Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing ... Install, upgrade, and maintain operating systems, software applications, and system components.

The System Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing ... Install, upgrade, and maintain operating systems, software applications, and system components.

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On Call Operating System Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$50

$79

How much do on call operating system developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for on call operating system developer in Chicago, IL is $50.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.60 and $58.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between On Call Operating System Developer vs System Software Engineer?

AspectOn Call Operating System DeveloperSystem Software Engineer
Primary FocusMaintaining, debugging, and updating operating systems during on-call shiftsDesigning, developing, and testing system software and tools
Work EnvironmentTypically in tech companies or data centers, often on-call for urgent issuesOffice or remote, involved in development projects
Required SkillsOS internals, troubleshooting, scripting, real-time problem solvingProgramming, system architecture, software development
CertificationsRelevant certifications like Linux Foundation or Microsoft certificationsComputer science degrees, certifications in software development

While both roles involve working with system-level software, the On Call Operating System Developer primarily focuses on maintaining and troubleshooting operating systems during on-call periods, whereas the System Software Engineer is involved in designing and developing system software in a broader development environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an On Call Operating System Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an On Call Operating System Developer, you need deep expertise in low-level programming, operating system architecture, and debugging, often backed by a degree in computer science or related fields. Proficiency with languages like C/C++, debugging tools (e.g., GDB, WinDbg), and familiarity with version control systems such as Git are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, quick decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for responding to urgent production incidents. These capabilities are crucial to rapidly diagnose, address, and prevent system-level failures, ensuring system stability and uptime.

Can you be on call as a software engineer?

On-call responsibilities are common for on call operating system developers and other software engineers working in roles that require 24/7 system availability. These positions often involve monitoring, troubleshooting, and resolving issues outside regular working hours, and may require familiarity with remote access tools and incident management processes.

What are On Call Operating System Developers?

On Call Operating System Developers are specialized software engineers responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving operating systems, often in real-time or emergency scenarios. They are typically available outside of regular business hours to address critical bugs, security vulnerabilities, or system outages. Their work ensures that operating systems remain stable, secure, and performant, especially when unexpected issues arise. These developers need deep technical expertise in OS internals and must be able to quickly diagnose and resolve complex problems.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand fields like cloud computing, AI, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

How does the on-call aspect of an Operating System Developer role impact work-life balance and daily routines?

As an On Call Operating System Developer, you may be required to respond to critical system issues or outages outside of regular business hours. This can mean unpredictable work schedules during on-call periods, but teams often rotate responsibilities to help maintain work-life balance. It's important to have strong time management skills and clear communication with your team to ensure coverage and minimize disruptions. Many organizations provide compensatory time off or additional pay for on-call duties, and being on call offers valuable experience in troubleshooting high-stakes, real-world problems.

Are OS developers in demand?

On-call operating system developers are in demand due to the ongoing need for system stability, security, and performance improvements across various industries. Skills in low-level programming, kernel development, and familiarity with tools like C and Linux are highly valued, and employment opportunities are expected to grow with advancements in technology and infrastructure. Continuous learning and certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

How much do OS devs make?

On-call operating system developers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the systems they work on. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in kernel development or low-level programming can command higher salaries. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses, stock options, or flexible schedules.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating System Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operating System Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Lean Director (Lean Operating System)

Wesco

Glenview, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Wesco rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 360 rated logistics


Job description

As the Director - Lean, you will lead the Lean Operating System (LOS), driving strategy, capability development, cultural transformation, and measurable business results across the enterprise. Partnering with executive leadership, you will advance goal deployment, daily management, problem-solving, and Lean maturity initiatives aligned to business objectives and sustainable operational outcomes. Through coaching, mentoring, and certification programs, you will build organizational capability and develop leaders capable of owning and expanding Lean practices within their organizations. You will oversee the evolution of the LOS, promote accountability, strengthen executive alignment, and ensure Lean initiatives deliver meaningful business impact. Leading a high-performing Lean team, you will drive enterprise transformation by translating strategy into action, influencing stakeholders, and establishing the communication and operating rhythms needed to sustain change.

Responsibilities:

  • Leads, develops, and provides tactical and strategic direction to a team of Lean leaders and practitioners responsible for deploying, sustaining, governing, and continuously evolving the enterprise Lean Operating System (LOS) to achieve strategic objectives and measurable business results.
  • Functions as the senior Lean leader and enterprise owner of the Lean Operating System, establishing strategy, governance, and execution approaches that align with business objectives, support long-term transformation efforts, and deliver measurable operational and financial outcomes.
  • Partners with executive leadership teams to identify priorities, establish roadmaps, and execute Lean strategies across business units, regions, and functions, leveraging Lean maturity assessments and Shingo principles to drive continuous improvement, capability growth, and leader accountability for results.
  • Facilitates executive-level goal deployment, daily management, and problem-solving processes, aligning organizational priorities, strengthening leadership ownership, and accelerating achievement of strategic objectives.
  • Leads enterprise-wide Lean transformation initiatives and strategic events, deploying appropriate Lean methodologies, resources, and tools to solve complex business challenges, improve performance, and embed sustainable improvements within existing business operations.
  • Builds organizational capability through coaching, mentoring, training, and certification of Lean practitioners and leaders, developing self-sufficient continuous improvement capabilities and ensuring business leaders own and sustain Lean practices within their areas of responsibility.
  • Develops Lean program managers, facilitators, and application specialists through hands-on leadership, coaching, performance management, and professional development, enabling the team to influence outcomes while reinforcing accountability within the business.
  • Utilizes customer, operational, and financial data to identify opportunities, guide decision-making, measure progress, and ensure Lean initiatives are directly connected to enterprise objectives and business outcomes.
  • Serves as a trusted advisor to senior executives, providing regular updates, influencing cross-functional stakeholders, fostering alignment across Operations, Commercial, Finance, and other key business functions, and promoting ownership of Lean outcomes at the leadership level.
  • Champions a culture of continuous improvement by promoting innovative thinking, sharing best practices, and driving enterprise adoption through effective Lean communications, storytelling, visibility tools, dashboards, and engagement strategies.
  • Promotes and advances the organization's Lean maturity journey by assessing current-state capabilities, identifying improvement opportunities, and translating maturity findings into actionable year-over-year transformation plans that strengthen organizational capability and business performance.
  • Partners across Operations, Commercial, Finance, HR, IT, and EPMO functions to integrate Lean principles into enterprise programs, operating models, and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors Degree - Engineering, Logistics, Technical required; MBA preferred
  • PMP, Change Management or Scrum Master certifications preferred
  • 10 years experience of extensive LEAN leadership in a medium or large company
  • 5 years experience managing a team
  • 5 years required of managing large-scale strategic initiatives
  • Must be a seasoned Lean Expert or 6 Sigma Black Belt
  • Demonstrates the ability to formulate and communicate a clear vision and sense of direction while motivating others to achieve shared goals
  • Effectively communicates information through verbal and written channels to ensure understanding and alignment
  • Organizes and facilitates cross functional teams through structured workshops, strategic sessions, Kaizens, and problem solving activities
  • Leads change initiatives by communicating the need for change, enabling successful adoption, and overcoming resistance
  • Coaches individuals to develop their skills and capabilities in support of agreed upon objectives.
  • Identifies training needs and ensures effective training delivery, execution, and follow up
  • Experience with coordinating and optimizing lean tools (visualization, etc.) preferred
  • Ability to travel 20% - 50%

#LI-RA1

This amount is what we reasonably believe we will pay for the position; however, offer amounts may vary based on factors such as geographic location, relevant education, experience, qualifications, skills, shift, or any collective bargaining agreements.

For eligible positions, compensation may include participation in a bonus or sales incentive plan,subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plan documents. For certain sales roles, Wesco also offers a commission structure that provides additional compensation based on sales results, as defined by the applicable commission plan.

In addition, Wesco offers abenefits program for eligible employees, which may include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and retirement savings plans. Additional details about benefits are available here.
At Wesco, we build, connect, power and protect the world. As a leading provider of business-to-business distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions, we create a world that you can depend on.

Our Company's greatest asset is our people. Wesco is committed to fostering a workplace where every individual is respected, valued, and empowered to succeed. We promote a culture that is grounded in teamwork and respect. With a workforce of over 20,000 people worldwide, we embrace the unique perspectives each person brings. Through comprehensive benefits and active community engagement, we create an environment where every team member has the opportunity to thrive. 

Learn more about Working at Wesco here and apply online today!

Founded in 1922 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Wesco is a publicly traded (NYSE: WCC) FORTUNE 500 company.

Wesco International, Inc., including its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Wesco") provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or other characteristics protected by law. US applicants only, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Los Angeles Unincorporated County Candidates Only: Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act. 

This posting is for a current, active vacancy intended for immediate hire.

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