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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

GDIT

Join GDIT as a Systems Engineer Principal and build an impactful career in enterprise IT, ... Recommend and support the implementation of AD tools across multiple operating system environments.

AVTC Group

Principal System Safety Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

... Operating and Support Hazard Analysis Functional Hazard Analysis, Requirements Hazard Analysis, and Hazard Tracking. Typically Requires: Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math ...

Acron Aviation Inc

Lead Systems Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Surveillance engineering at Acron Aviation emphasizes technical rigor, disciplined execution, and close coordination with operators and OEM partners. Acron Aviation is seeking a Lead System Engineer ...

Geologics

Systems Network Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$80/hr

Systems Network Engineer Required: TS/SCI w/ Full Scope Poly Clearance RATE RANGE: $80.00/hr - 88 ... Maintain/update local and shared Operating System (Windows and Linux) configurations including ...

Geologics

Systems Network Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ

$80/hr

Systems Network Engineer Required: TS/SCI w/ Full Scope Poly Clearance RATE RANGE: $80.00/hr - 88 ... Maintain/update local and shared Operating System (Windows and Linux) configurations including ...

Cintal

Systems Engineer 4

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Autonomous TRUCK Integration and Validation Engineer * Hands-on experience with large machines ... Computer literate (windows operating system) * Troubleshooting issues in complex systems * Ubuntu ...

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All JobsOperating System Engineer JobsOperating System Engineer Jobs in Arizona

Operating System Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$49.9K

$118.5K

$155.6K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Arizona is $118,550.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $146,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Operating System Engineers when maintaining system stability in large-scale environments?

Operating System Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing software patching across diverse hardware, ensuring compatibility with legacy applications, and minimizing downtime during critical updates. In large-scale environments, balancing security with performance and reliability can be complex, especially when multiple teams depend on the systems. Effective communication with development, security, and IT operations teams is essential to address these issues proactively and maintain overall system stability.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or cybersecurity can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, or working in competitive markets with high compensation packages.

What does an Operating System Engineer do?

An Operating System Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and optimizing operating systems that run on computers and servers. They work on the core components that manage hardware resources, enable software applications, and ensure system security and stability. Their duties often include writing system-level code, troubleshooting performance issues, implementing updates, and collaborating with hardware and software teams. Operating System Engineers play a critical role in ensuring that computing environments are efficient, reliable, and secure.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior operating system engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with roles in large tech companies, leadership positions, or engineers working on complex systems with advanced knowledge of hardware, virtualization, or security. Salary levels depend on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the difference between Operating System Engineer vs System Administrator?

AspectOperating System EngineerSystem Administrator
Primary FocusDesigning, developing, and optimizing operating systemsMaintaining, configuring, and supporting existing systems
Skills & CertificationsLinux/Unix, scripting, OS architecture, certifications like RHCE or Linux FoundationSystem management, network setup, troubleshooting, certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Certified
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, R&D, engineering projectsIT support, data centers, enterprise environments
Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, software developmentCorporate IT, government agencies, healthcare, finance

While both roles involve working with operating systems, Operating System Engineers focus on designing and developing OS solutions, whereas System Administrators manage and support existing systems. The roles complement each other but serve different stages of the system lifecycle.

What does an OS engineer do?

An Operating System (OS) Engineer designs, develops, and maintains operating system software, ensuring efficient hardware and software integration. They troubleshoot system issues, optimize performance, and may work with tools like kernel development, scripting, and debugging. Strong knowledge of computer architecture, programming languages, and system security is essential for this role.

How hard is coding an OS?

Operating System Engineers typically find coding an OS to be highly complex due to the need for low-level programming, understanding hardware interactions, and managing system resources. It requires strong knowledge of programming languages like C or C++, familiarity with system architecture, and often involves debugging and testing in specialized environments. The work demands significant technical skill and experience, often gained through advanced education and hands-on practice.

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

To thrive as an Operating System Engineer, you need a deep understanding of computer science principles, operating system internals, and strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or Rust, often backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with kernel development, debugging tools, virtualization platforms, and experience with version control systems (such as Git) are typically required. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure the reliability, performance, and security of operating systems, which are foundational to all computing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Operating System Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Operating System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $118,550 per year, or $57 per hour.
Mainframe Systems Programmer/SR (29935)

Mainframe Systems Programmer/SR (29935)

IDEALFORCE LLC

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company Description

IDEALFORCE has a Contract-to-Hire positions available immediately for a Mainframe System Programmer/SR to join our customer in Phoenix, AZ. Please find below additional details about this job. Kindly respond with your most up to date resume if you would like to pursue this opportunity. 

Job Description


The Sr. Systems Programmer's main job responsibilities will include Installation, Upgrading,  Customization, Problem Determination, Performance Analysis Tuning, Capacity Planning, and WLM for the IBM Mainframe zSeries z/OS Systems, Hardware Systems & Peripherals, zSeries based ISV (Independent Software Vendor) Software, and zSeries Network Communications.  
Professional skills should include utilizing Project and Change Management, along with excellent communications skills, and experience working directly with the user community, and vendor technical support personnel.  The Systems Programmer is required to be on call 24x7 for providing problem resolution and high systems availability. 
The Sr. Systems Programmer will interface with management and the technical staff to plan and prioritize projects tasks in accordance with departmental goals.   
The Mainframe Sr. Systems Programming skills will require hardware expert knowledge of the currently supported IBM zSeries type Processors and their associated HMC (Processor Interface), SYSPLEX, Coupling Facilities, OSA (Networking Interface), ICC (Integrated Console Controller), FICON (Fiber connectivity to peripheral devices), DASD Storage/Flash Copy and ATL/VTL Tape Storage, and Network Routers (Managing device setup and addressability).  
A detailed knowledge of the z/OS Operating System with hands on experience with the latest z/OS Versions and Release levels is expected.  Operating Systems experience should include expert knowledge of and experience with: z/OS z/AWARE, BCP, JES2, IOCP, HCD, RMF, SMF, DFSMS, DFHSM, DFDSS, FDR, SDSF, DFSORT, SMPE, TSO, CA-MIMS, ISPF/PDF, RACF, SVC Dumps, OMEGAMON, TMON, VTAM/SNA, TCP/IP, OSPF (TCP/IP Routing Protocol), VIPA, and FTP (File Transfer z/OS).  Expert knowledge and experience with the following File Formats is required: PS, PO, PDS, PDS/E, z/FS and VSAM/E). Mainframe Business Continuity/Disaster Recovery with periodic DR testing experience is required.      
The following software experience will be a plus: Assembler, REXX, COBOL, PL1, XML, SAS, MXG, HTML, CRplus, BMC's CONTROL-M, CICS/TS, IMS and DB2.  Additionally, UNIX, and/or Linux experience would also be a plus.     
The Sr. Systems Programmer position requires a minimum of 10 to 15 years in Data Processing, with 8 of those years in z/OS Systems Programming. Employment history should show Job responsibility within large zSeries environments.

Additional Information

- "All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines". 
- All candidates who are authorized to work in US are encouraged to apply.

- Most of our positions require Candidate to clear the Background check prior to commencing the assignment.

SOURCER ASSIGNED: Pete Tylor; Email: pete dot tylor at idealforce.com

Disclaimer: 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Idealforce logo

About Idealforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Idealforce is a reputable company headquartered in Austin, TX, United States, that operates within the dynamic technology industry. As indicated by the information derived from its official website, idealforce.com, the company's specialization lies in providing innovative technology solutions and digital services for various business operations. Founded on the principles of excellence, efficiency, and progressive technology, Idealforce has significantly contributed toward shifting the business landscape to a more digital realm.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

Year founded

2008

Social media

Facebook

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