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On Call Operating System Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Collabera

System Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68 - $75/hr

... such as Operating System, Data Base Administration, Storage Management, Operations/Coverage ... 365 on-call support Responsible for keeping DB2 and all associated ISV products at current ...

Bactech

System Administrator

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

... 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 ...

Bactech

System Administrator

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

... 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 ...

Northwestern University

Systems Engineer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$79/hr

In this position, you will contribute to system administration tasks, support application ... Engages in scheduled on-call rotations and responds to service management tickets, resolving most ...

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All JobsOn Call Operating System Developer JobsOn Call Operating System Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 9, 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:
On Call Operating System Developer jobs near you
System Engineer

System Engineer

Collabera

Chicago, IL • On-site

$68 - $75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Details: Job Title: Mainframe Programming Analyst Contract: 3 months Location: Chicago, IL - 60606 Pay Range: $68/hr - $75/hr Job overview and responsibilities: DB2 Systems professional responsible for DB2 for z/OS and associated ISV products. This is a key position within the Mainframe Engineering team in Business Operations Services. Responsibilities include software installation, system tuning, monitoring of system performance, capacity planning, problem analysis and resolution, and interface with vendor support. The position will require significant interaction with Business Users and Application Development team in addition to working with other Mainframe support groups such as Operating System, Data Base Administration, Storage Management, Operations/Coverage, Information Security, and Job Scheduling. Support & System Maintenance: Support the Infrastructure and DB2 Data Repository on the Mainframe for critical Tier 1 application systems: Peoplesoft (HR/Payroll), Engine Maintenance, Reservation Centers, Employee Travel Management Provide 24/7/365 on-call support Responsible for keeping DB2 and all associated ISV products at current supported levels Provide testing support and product verification for DB2 and DB2 related software on all system upgrade (Operating System, Software Products, Hardware Replacement) Consultation & Collaboration: Provide consultation services to Business users and Application Development teams related to accessing business data stored on the Mainframe Significant interaction with other Mainframe support groups such as Operating System, Data Base Administration, Operations/Coverage, Resource Management, Information Security, Job Scheduling to support ongoing operations Qualifications - External What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications): 3+ years of experience in DB2 Systems Programming on Mainframes Strong working knowledge of DB2 for z/OS, Assembler and SMP/E Experience with installing, maintaining, monitoring/tuning DB2 and ISV products The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, short-term disability insurance, paid parking/public transportation, paid time off, paid sick and safe time, hours of paid vacation time, weeks of paid parental leave, and paid holidays annually – as applicable.

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