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Operating System Developer Jobs in San Francisco, CA

Robert Half

DevOps Engineer III

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$59 - $80.75/hr

The DevOps Engineer III will also evaluate emerging technologies, participate in architecture ... Apply operating system, application, and security patches across Windows and Linux platforms.

Robert Half

DevOps Engineer III

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$59 - $80.75/hr

The DevOps Engineer III will also evaluate emerging technologies, participate in architecture ... Apply operating system, application, and security patches across Windows and Linux platforms.

Tread

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$250 - $450/hr

Experience operating payments or financial systems at scale. * Deep technical credibility. Comfortable discussing architecture, distributed systems, AI infrastructure, evaluation systems, developer ...

Tread

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $260K/yr

Experience operating payments or financial systems at scale. * Deep technical credibility. Comfortable discussing architecture, distributed systems, AI infrastructure, evaluation systems, developer ...

Kett Engineering

Be Seen First

Autonomous Systems Validation Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Operating at the intersection of hands-on vehicle testing and systems engineering, this role is responsible for driving, evaluating, and troubleshooting prototype vehicles equipped with cutting-edge ...

Droisys

Systems Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

This is a very highly secure system and a background check will be required of anyone coming on ... Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Server Operating Systems and Microsoft Active Directory ...

Spiral

Software Engineer - Systems

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Strong foundation in operating systems and systems programming * Proven track record in performance engineering * Familiarity with tools like Apache Arrow, Parquet, DataFusion, Clickhouse, or DuckDB ...

Spiral

Software Engineer - Systems

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $275K/yr

Strong foundation in operating systems and systems programming * Proven track record in performance engineering * Familiarity with tools like Apache Arrow, Parquet, DataFusion, Clickhouse, or DuckDB ...

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All JobsOperating System Developer JobsOperating System Developer Jobs in San Francisco, CA

Operating System Developer information

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$14

$57

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How much do operating system developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating system developer in San Francisco, CA is $57.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.70 and $67.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating system developer?

An Operating System Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining operating system components, including kernels, drivers, and system utilities. They work on optimizing system performance, ensuring security, and improving compatibility with hardware and software. These developers typically work with low-level programming languages like C and Assembly and have expertise in systems architecture. Their role is crucial in developing reliable and efficient computing platforms for various devices, from desktops to embedded systems.

What does an operating system developer do?

Operating System Developers typically spend their days designing, implementing, and debugging core system components such as kernels, device drivers, and memory management modules. They often work closely with other software engineers, hardware teams, and QA testers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. Reviewing code, conducting performance tests, and investigating reported issues are common daily tasks. Collaboration and clear communication are essential, as most projects require teamwork and regular updates across departments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an operating system developer?

To thrive as an Operating System Developer, you need in-depth knowledge of computer architecture, strong C/C++ programming skills, and experience with low-level system design, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control tools (like Git), debugging utilities, and relevant certifications such as Linux Foundation Certified Engineer are valuable. Analytical thinking, troubleshooting ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating across development teams. These competencies ensure robust, maintainable system software and efficient teamwork in complex, performance-critical environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating System Developer jobs in San Francisco, CA?

The most popular types of Operating System Developer jobs in San Francisco, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating System Developer jobs in San Francisco, CA?

For Operating System Developer jobs in San Francisco, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Operating System Developer jobs in San Francisco, CA are:

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Cities near San Francisco, CA with the most Operating System Developer job openings:

Operating System Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Developer job openings in San Francisco, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,737 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior/Staff Software Engineer - Embedded Linux Operating Systems

Zoox

Foster City, CA • On-site

$237K - $322K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Zoox rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Zoox's Robot Software Infrastructure team is seeking a passionate software engineer to help develop and advance the common performant operating system that powers several devices on our vehicle including Autonomy systems. This team develops platform-level software and services, including operating systems that enable complex, hardware-accelerated workloads critical for autonomous driving on automotive-grade hardware.


We work closely with cross-functional teams—including developers, release management, hardware engineering, manufacturing and operations—to support vehicle development and deployment at scale. You'll have the opportunity to influence the next generation of our platform, hardware, and robotaxi. If you are excited to explore a broad problem space and are mindful of how components fit within a larger system, you may be a great fit!

In this role, you will:
  • Design, develop, and maintain the operating system platform that powers various on-bot devices and applications
  • Architect and implement platform-level software to support robust and scalable robotics infrastructure
  • Configure and manage embedded Linux build systems (e.g., Yocto) and bootloader processes (e.g., U-Boot) to ensure reliable system startup and maintenance
  • Develop and optimize device drivers and kernel-space components using C, C++, or Rust to meet performance and reliability requirements
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to support seamless integration and delivery of the OS platform, triage issues, support new hardware bring-up and manufacturing functions
Qualifications
  •  8+ years delivering production systems and software applications, 2+ years of delivering custom Embedded Linux operating systems
  • Have a deep understanding of Linux, build systems like Yocto, and bootloaders like U-Boot
  • Be familiar with Linux init systems (e.g., systemd), containerization concepts (e.g., chroot, cgroups, Linux namespaces), and filesystems
  • Understand device drivers and kernel-space code and proficiency in a language without automatic memory management (e.g., C or C++), and in multiple scripting languages like bash and Python
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills along with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience
Bonus Qualifications
  • Experience with embedded Linux in a robotics application
  • Familiarity with security software: PKI, secure boot, OTA software update, hardware key storage, etc.
  • Familiarity with Nvidia GPUs, Nvidia Thor/Orin, Cuda, TRT, etc.
  • Graduate degree with a focus on networking, operating systems, or firmware
Base Salary Range
 
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
 
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.

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Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.

A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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About Zoox

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zoox is dedicated to creating the world's first fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the necessary ecosystem to make this technology accessible. Positioned at the crossroads of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox strives to deliver the future of mobility-as-a-service in urban settings. We seek exceptional individuals who share our enthusiasm and are eager to join a dynamic and results-driven team.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Foster City, CA, US

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