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Operating System Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

SW Complete

System Administrator 2

Columbia, MD · On-site

Configures and manages UNIX and Windows operating systems and installs/loads operating system ... The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering ...

Synergy ECP LLC

System Administrator 2

Columbia, MD · On-site

Configures and manages UNIX and Windows operating systems and installs/loads operating system ... The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering ...

INflow Federal

Jr. System Admin

Springfield, VA

You'll collaborate with senior engineers, cybersecurity professionals, and customer stakeholders while supporting technologies spanning operating systems, virtualization, storage, networking, backup ...

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

RedHat Linux operating system, including implementation, administration, and troubleshooting skills ... Broad systems engineering or integration experience with emphasis in system design and integration.

Andworx, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

RedHat Linux operating system, including implementation, administration, and troubleshooting skills ... Broad systems engineering or integration experience with emphasis in system design and integration.

Corps Solutions

System Engineer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$70K - $170K/yr

Engineer, integrate, and troubleshoot system components including servers, operating systems (Windows/Linux), storage solutions, virtualization platforms, and related services. * Develop, update, and ...

INflow Federal

Jr. System Admin

Springfield, VA · On-site

You'll collaborate with senior engineers, cybersecurity professionals, and customer stakeholders while supporting technologies spanning operating systems, virtualization, storage, networking, backup ...

INflow Federal

Jr. System Admin

Springfield, VA

You'll collaborate with senior engineers, cybersecurity professionals, and customer stakeholders while supporting technologies spanning operating systems, virtualization, storage, networking, backup ...

Corps Solutions

System Engineer

Quantico, VA

$70K - $170K/yr

Engineer, integrate, and troubleshoot system components including servers, operating systems (Windows/Linux), storage solutions, virtualization platforms, and related services. * Develop, update, and ...

Peraton

Cloud Infrastructure Engineer - RedHat

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Candidate must meet DoD 8140 foundational requirements for a System Developer work role with a proficiency of intermediate or above * High proficiency with Linux and Windows-based operating systems ...

Peraton

Cloud Engineer (RHEL)

Chantilly, VA

$57 - $76.25/hr

Meet DoD 8140 foundational requirements for a System Developer with a proficiency of advanced. * High proficiency with Linux and Windows-based operating systems to include a deep, core understanding ...

Peraton

Cloud Engineer (RHEL)

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Meet DoD 8140 foundational requirements for a System Developer with a proficiency of advanced. * High proficiency with Linux and Windows-based operating systems to include a deep, core understanding ...

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All JobsOperating System Developer JobsOperating System Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Operating System Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

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How much do operating system developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating system developer in Washington, DC is $55.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.83 and $64.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Operating System Developer job?

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.

How much does an OS developer make?

An operating system developer's salary varies based on experience, location, and skills, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually in the United States. Senior developers with specialized knowledge in kernel development or low-level programming can earn higher salaries, especially at large tech companies or in high-cost-of-living areas.

How much do OS devs make?

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 low-level programming and kernel development tend to have higher salaries. Compensation can also include benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and flexible schedules.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior operating system developers or software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost regions or large tech companies. These roles often require advanced knowledge of system architecture, programming languages, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

How hard is coding an OS?

Operating System Developers work on designing, implementing, and maintaining core system software, which requires strong programming skills in languages like C and assembly, as well as understanding hardware architecture. Coding an OS is complex and involves managing low-level hardware interactions, concurrency, and security, often taking years of experience and knowledge of system design principles.

What are the typical daily tasks and responsibilities of an Operating System Developer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Operating System Developer position, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Operating System Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Operating System Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Operating System Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 57% In-person, and 43% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $115,062 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

System Administrator 2

SW Complete

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
System Administrator Level 2
Provides support for implementation, troubleshooting and maintenance of Information Technology (IT) systems. Manages IT system infrastructure and any processes related to these systems. Provides support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices, etc. Provides Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems. Provides support for the escalation and communication of status to agency management and internal customers. Provides support for the dispatch system and hardware problems and remains involved in the resolution process. Configures and manages UNIX and Windows operating systems and installs/loads operating system software, troubleshoots, maintains integrity and configures network components along with implementing operating systems enhancements to improve reliability and performance.
Requirements
The Level 2 System Administrator shall possess the following capabilities:
  • Provide support for implementation, troubleshooting and maintenance of IT systems
  • Provide Tier I (Help Desk) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems
  • Manage the daily activities of configuration and operation of IT systems
  • Provide assistance to users in accessing and using IT systems
  • Provide Tier I (Help Desk) and Tier II (Escalation) problem identification, diagnosis and resolution of problems
  • Provide support to IT systems including day-to-day operations, monitoring and problem resolution for all of the client/server/storage/network devices, mobile devices, etc.
  • Provide support for the escalation and communication of status to agency management and internal customers
  • Optimize system operations and resource utilization, and perform system capacity analysis and planning
  • Provide in-depth experience in trouble-shooting IT systems
  • Provide detailed analysis and feedback to agency management and internal customers for escalated tickets
  • Provide support for the dispatch system and hardware problems and remains involved in the resolution process
  • Configure and manage UNIX and Windows (or other applicable) operating systems and installs/loads operating system software, troubleshoot, maintain integrity of and configure network components, along with implementing operating systems enhancements to improve reliability and performance

Qualifications:
  • Ten (10) years' experience as a SA in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required

Additional contract or position specific required experience for this level (skills, technologies, expertise):
  • One (1) year experience in Linux, Unix, Windows or Cisco OS operating system
  • Five (5) years' experience administering Linux, Unix or Windows Operating System
  • Five (5) years' experience supporting applications in the SIGINT environment
  • Three (3) years' experience installing software packages such as .iso and RedHat package Managers (rpm)
  • CWIP: IAT Level I Certification

CLEARANCE REQUIRED
  • TS/SCI w/ Polygraph

Desired Qualifications:
  • Three (3) years' experience configuring, troubleshooting, monitoring, and administering a messaging service (such as Java Messaging Service, TIBCO, ActiveMQ, Artemis, Kafka)

About Us
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Synergy ECP is a leading provider of cybersecurity, software and systems engineering and IT services to the U.S. intelligence and defense communities. The company leverages its expertise in data transport solutions, software and systems engineering, and other solutions to deliver critical and innovative capabilities to high-level decision makers that enhance our nation's security.
In an ultra-competitive environment, Synergy ECP has thrived by adhering to our name, making sure excellence is displayed by our Employees, to our Customers and by Improving Performance (ECP). It's what sets us apart, enabling us to be an autonomous yet agile business that delivers huge results-showing we're ready to meet our customers' evolving demands. Synergy ECP has earned a client list that includes numerous Fortune 100 companies, in addition to multiple branches of the US government and military services.
Synergy ECP is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

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