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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

... operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control ... We are seeking a hardcore Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (SEIT) Engineer to own the ...

... operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control ... We are seeking a hardcore Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (SEIT) Engineer to own the ...

... operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control ... We are seeking a hardcore Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (SEIT) Engineer to own the ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boston, MA · Remote

$113K - $155K/yr

Includes operating systems, device drivers, utilities, and software; development tools (e.g., assemblers, compilers, etc.). The Senior Systems Engineer work assignments involve moderately complex to ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boston, MA · Remote

$113K - $155K/yr

Includes operating systems, device drivers, utilities, and software; development tools (e.g., assemblers, compilers, etc.). The Senior Systems Engineer work assignments involve moderately complex to ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boston, MA · Remote

$113K - $155K/yr

Includes operating systems, device drivers, utilities, and software; development tools (e.g., assemblers, compilers, etc.). The Senior Systems Engineer work assignments involve moderately complex to ...

MA · On-site

Utilizes digital simulation tools, original programming, and software (Matlab, Mathematica, soft ... UNIX, Red Hat Linux, IRIX, and Solaris operating systems. Knowledge of PAVE PAWS software ...

MA

$120K/yr

Utilizes digital simulation tools, original programming, and software (Matlab, Mathematica, soft ... UNIX, Red Hat Linux, IRIX, and Solaris operating systems. Knowledge of PAVE PAWS software ...

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Operating System Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$58.4K

$138.9K

$182.4K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Massachusetts is $138,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $171,500.00 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 Massachusetts? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,934 per year, or $66.8 per hour.
Systems Software Engineer, Platform Architecture

Systems Software Engineer, Platform Architecture

Apple

Cambridge, MA

$116K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 667 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Imagine what you can do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job, and there’s no telling what we can accomplish together.
Do you love crafting elegant solutions to highly complex challenges? Can you intrinsically see the importance in every detail? At Apple, our Platform Architecture group is responsible for connecting our hardware and software into one unified system. Join this team, and you’ll collaborate with engineers across Apple to build and deploy forward-looking prototype systems that contribute to the development of our world renowned hardware and software architecture.
You and your team will confirm that every product we make performs exactly as intended. Together, our work will be the reason millions of customers feel they can trust their devices every single day.
Description
Apple’s Platform Architecture group is seeking a systems engineer to build high performance functional models of advanced SoC designs and to help bridge the gap between Software and Hardware, influencing performance improvements, power efficiency, security, and the programming ease of Apple products.","responsibilities":"Prototype and analyze architecture and operating system proposals.
Interface kernels and drivers with processor & SoC models.
Work closely with cross-functional teams across product groups.
Promote new opportunities and techniques with other groups.
Preferred Qualifications
MS or PhD degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering.
Experience debugging large, complex system software.
Scripting skills (Python).
Assembly experience.
Experience with kernel, driver and firmware development.
Experience with modeling and simulation.
Knowledge of ARM and/or X86 architecture.
Minimum Qualifications
BS degree.
Experience in low-level software, operating systems, or compilers.
Programming experience (C++/C).
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $116,400 and $203,000, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976