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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Systems Software Engineer II

Detroit, MI · On-site

$171K - $202K/yr

Incumbents alsoprovide continuing support for their assigned operating system,trouble-shooting and ... Systems Software Engineer II This is the career level where incumbents are fully knowledgeable in ...

Position Title: Site IT Operations Engineer Location: Toledo, OH Position Start Date: June 2026 ... Operating system, network...) Operational management of IT infrastructure in an industrial ...

New

Systems Software Engineer II

Detroit, MI · On-site

$171K - $202K/yr

Incumbents alsoprovide continuing support for their assigned operating system,trouble-shooting and ... Systems Software Engineer II This is the career level where incumbents are fully knowledgeable in ...

The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for systems management across Linux, Unix and Windows ... Key responsibilities include system installation, operating system patch management, system ...

Job Summary : OPmobility is seeking a Site IT Operations Engineer to implement corporate IT ... Operating system, network...) • Operational management of IT infrastructure in an industrial ...

Systems Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$98K - $113K/yr

Analyze customer and system requirements to define the functional and performance specifications ... Design, develop and maintain standards for online cloud platforms, multi-operating systems, design ...

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Operating System Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$46.6K

$110.9K

$145.6K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Michigan is $110,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $136,800.00 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 Michigan? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Mechanical System Engineer (Midlevel - Principal)

Mechanical System Engineer (Midlevel - Principal)

American Electric Power

Bridgman, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


American Electric Power rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Job Posting End Date
06-22-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
This position is to fulfill an individual contributor system manager position reporting to the Systems Engineering NSSS supervisor:
The System Manager's primary role is to proactively manage system performance to meet or exceed plant safety, production, and cost goals by preventing equipment failures and improving system reliability and availability in a cost-effective manner. As the station system expert, the system manager is the focal point of plant knowledge concerning systems (i.e., performance requirements and bases, operating status, performance monitoring and analysis, planned preventive, predictive and corrective maintenance, and related industry operating experience). Identified below are the roles and responsibilities that are considered core business and those business support activities.
- Monitors and trends performance of assigned systems
- Performs and documents system walk downs
- Develops comprehensive System Health Reports and manage recovery plans for degraded systems
- Maintains ownership of the Preventive Maintenance Program technical basis
- Updates Maintenance Rule (MRule) database and maintain system/function unavailability
- Reviews and approve MSPI data provided by the MRule Program
- Participates in the long-range planning and lifecycle management
Preferred Skills:
Prior knowledge/experience with ventilation systems
Prior knowledge/experience with ice condenser systems at nuclear power plants
Mechanical or Chemical Engineering backgrounds
Please Note: This position is posted in a range, and an offer will be made based on the candidate's qualifications.
Job Description
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
What You'll Do:
  • Technical Expertise - Possesses advanced knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analyses. Understands interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Analyzes and recommends enhancements to business processes.
  • Leadership and Guidance - Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to perform routine engineering work. Performs routine engineering activity independently. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees. Planning and Organizational Ability - Develops input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc.
  • Problem Solving and Initiative - Resolves and initiates solutions to routine and/or moderately complex problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Identifies problems that are beyond the normal routine. Seeks out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.
  • Communication Skills - Helps coordinate the work of other engineers in an efficient and effective manner.
  • Interpersonal Skills - Leads aspects of team effort. Effectively leverages skills developed from company programs such as Power Up & Lead.
  • Decision Making - Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Analyzes options and risks. Extrapolates beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
  • Business Awareness Characteristics - Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Applies use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Demonstrates an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

What We're Looking For:
NUCLEAR ENGINEER/ GRADE 07: ($87,633 - $109,544)
  • Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree in engineering from a program accredited by ABET* Individuals with a PhD in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:
  • A Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

NUCLEAR ENGINEER, SR/ GRADE 08: ($98,993 - $128,689):
  • Has typically acquired 6 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited ABET*; or 4 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:
  • A Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. **Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

NUCLEAR ENGINEER, PRINC/ GRADE 09: ($116,225 -$151,132):
  • Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is required for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:
  • A Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. **Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
  • *VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program

Must establish and maintain a permanent residence within a 45-minute safe drive time to the D.C. Cook Nuclear Power Plant.
What You'll Get:
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
The power of AEP comes from our valued team of unique employees...the best in the business! We're proud to be one of the largest electric energy companies in the U.S., powering over 5 million homes and businesses, spanning across 11 states. We're passionate about making an innovative difference in the communities we serve. We're powering the future - today!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$87K- $151K / Year
#AEPCareers
#LI-ONSITE
#AEPIM
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-007
Compensation Range:
$87,633.00 - $151,132.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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