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Operating System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prescient Edge

SME System Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$97K - $150K/yr

Coordinate with government stakeholders, operators, and engineering teams to support system integration, modernization efforts, and lifecycle sustainment of communications and electrical capabilities.

Aptiv

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA

$100K - $135K/yr

Knowledge of operating systems concepts * Knowledge or basic experience with RTOS software development, including core OS kernel functionality * Knowledge or basic experience in C programming with ...

Aptiv

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Knowledge of operating systems concepts * Knowledge or basic experience with RTOS software development, including core OS kernel functionality * Knowledge or basic experience in C programming with ...

Aptiv PLC

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Knowledge of operating systems concepts * Knowledge or basic experience with RTOS software development, including core OS kernel functionality * Knowledge or basic experience in C programming with ...

Aptiv PLC

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Knowledge of operating systems concepts * Knowledge or basic experience with RTOS software development, including core OS kernel functionality * Knowledge or basic experience in C programming with ...

NIO

Staff System Engineer | Researcher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$163K - $212K/yr

About the Position We are seeking a Staff System Engineer | Researcher to join our SkyOS team ... The team is responsible for the design and development of NIO's full-domain vehicle operating ...

NIO

Staff System Engineer | Researcher

San Jose, CA · On-site

$163K - $212K/yr

About the Position We are seeking a Staff System Engineer | Researcher to join our SkyOS team ... The team is responsible for the design and development of NIO's full-domain vehicle operating ...

AeroVironment

System Engineer, Sr. Staff

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Lead system integration activities across aircraft, payload, mission systems, communications ... Coordinate with pilots, operators, software developers, and specialty engineering teams during ...

Apple

Prototyping System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

In this 0-to-1 role, you will be at the forefront of early-stage product exploration, operating at ... Description As a Home Prototyping System Engineer, you will be responsible for the electrical ...

UBEO

MIT System Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Troubleshoot according to best practices and standard operating procedures * Escalate to and/or collaborate with Senior Systems Engineers when necessary * Adhere to communication standards and enter ...

Prosum

Linux Systems Engineer

Glendale, CA · On-site

Systems Engineers working within the Media Systems and Network Engineering group provide the ... Operating system administration (e.g. Unix, Linux, OSX, and Windows). High performance data storage ...

UBEO

MIT System Engineer

Stockton, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Troubleshoot according to best practices and standard operating procedures * Escalate to and/or collaborate with Senior Systems Engineers when necessary * Adhere to communication standards and enter ...

DCS CORPORATION

DTP-N System Engineer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

... DTP-N) Systems Engineer supporting the F/A-18 and EA-18G Integrated Product Team (IPT) the ... Respond to inquiries from fleet operators and support personnel. Provide technically sound ...

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All JobsOperating System Engineer JobsOperating System Engineer Jobs in California

Operating System Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 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 200,000 a year?

Operating System Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior roles. Factors such as working in large tech companies, possessing expertise in systems architecture, and working in competitive markets contribute to higher salaries.

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 tools and technologies.

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 systems or their components, ensuring efficient performance, security, and stability. They often work with low-level programming languages, troubleshoot system issues, and optimize hardware-software interactions, frequently using tools like debugging software and version control systems.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

An Operating System Engineer or similar senior-level software engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-paying industries or companies. Such roles often require advanced knowledge of system architecture, programming, and certifications, and may include bonuses and stock options that contribute to total compensation.

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 California? For Operating System Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Operating System Engineer jobs near you
SME System Network Engineer

SME System Network Engineer

Prescient Edge

San Diego, CA • On-site

$97K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title
SME System Network Engineer
Location
San Diego, CA 22400 US (Primary)
Category
Research, Development, and Engineering
Job Type
Full-Time
Career Level
Staff
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Prescient Edge is seeking SME System Engineer/ Network to support a federal government client.
Benefits & Compensation:
At Prescient Edge, we believe that acting with integrity and serving our employees is the key to everyone's success. To that end, we provide employees with a best-in-class benefits package that includes:
  • A competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities.
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, vision, dental, and orthodontia coverage.
  • A substantial retirement plan with no vesting schedule. Career development opportunities, including on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, and networking.
  • A positive work environment where employees are respected, supported, and engaged.
  • Salary range: $97,000 - $150,000. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills and the abilities of the applicant internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Description:
  • Technical SME System Engineer supporting mission-critical communications, network, and electrical systems. Design, develop, and integrate communications and electrical subsystems including RF systems, power distribution, antennas, and data links across airborne, maritime, and ground platforms.
  • Leverage prior military operational experience to translate mission requirements, CONOPS, and field feedback into practical engineering solutions that enhance reliability, survivability, and operational effectiveness.
  • Lead troubleshooting, testing, and technical assessments of communications and network systems in laboratory, field, and deployed environments to ensure mission readiness and system performance.
  • Coordinate with government stakeholders, operators, and engineering teams to support system integration, modernization efforts, and lifecycle sustainment of communications and electrical capabilities.
  • Support system design reviews, technical documentation, and compliance activities ensuring adherence to applicable military standards, cybersecurity requirements, and engineering best practices.
  • Provide technical mentorship and operational insight to engineering staff, bridging the gap between operational users and system developers to ensure solutions meet real-world mission demands.

Job Requirements
Requirements:
  • US Navy, USCG, Marine Corps, or SOCOM experience required.
  • Petty Officers, Marines, or Coast Guard personnel with communications, network, system admin, or engineering experience.
  • Military unmanned or manned aircraft, ships, or equipment experience is required.
  • Technical SME/Engineer with engineering, systems, technical degree and 4+ years military experience OR SME in technical field with some college and 12+ years military experience.
  • 10+ years military experience may substitute for degree (SME level).
  • Testing or hands-on experience with network, communications and tactical systems (operations of GCCS, MSS, other common operating systems are a plus).
  • Technical background with understanding System Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) - V-model.
  • Proficiency with MS products (Excel, Word, PPT).
  • Proficiency with Visio, AutoCAD, or similar diagram tools.
  • Familiarity with AI model usage (LLMs).
  • Hands-on engineering, communications, network, or tactical systems experience within military operational environments.

Education:
  • Degree in Engineering, Systems, Electrical, Technical degree preferred but not required. Experience may substitute.
  • Degree preferred but not required, experience over degree.

Security clearance:
  • Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain a Secret (or higher)

Location:
  • San Diego, CA
  • Travel: Up to 25%
  • Work Schedule: Hybrid - 3 days in Government facility and 2 days remote.

Prescient Edge is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) founded as a counterintelligence (CI) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company in 2008. We are a global operations and solutions integrator delivering full-spectrum intelligence analysis support, training, security, and RD&E support solutions to the Department of Defense and throughout the intelligence community. Prescient Edge is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by law. We strive to foster equity and inclusion throughout our organization because we believe that diversity of thought is critical for creating a safe and engaging work environment while also enabling the organization's success.
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About Prescient Edge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Prescient Edge is a prominent name in the global security industry, based out of McLean, VA, US. Established with the primary mission of harnessing science and technology for safety and security purposes, the company specializes in providing a wide range of products and services. This includes research and development, consulting, global operations support, intelligence evaluation, and advanced data solutions. These offerings make Prescient Edge an integral factor in national defense and commercial innovations.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

2008

Social media

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