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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

... operating system - one that can readily respond to pilot and mission needs while still delivering ... Apply software engineering best practices and (where applicable) control and systems engineering ...

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Operating System Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$50.9K

$120.9K

$158.8K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Ohio is $120,943.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $149,300.00 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 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 Ohio? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,943 per year, or $58.1 per hour.
Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Systems Engineer

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Dayton, OH • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations - with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries.

SNC has led thoughtful and disruptive change in the aerospace and defense industry for the past 60 years and now, we're applying this tenacity and expertise to the U.S. Air Force's (USAF) Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) mission. Join the SNC-led SAOC team and be a part of exciting and meaningful work to modernize and deliver the next-generation SAOC aircraft trusted by the President, Secretary of Defense and Chairs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to ensure continued critical command, control and communication during national emergencies. If you're passionate about building the airborne command post of the future, consider SNC for your next mission. Learn more about NC3 and SAOC here.

Are you a bold thinker? We dream big at SNC-advocating the exploration of space, keeping service members safe and creating the systems that keep our world united and sustain our way of living. Join our team! As a Principal Systems Engineer, you will demonstrate mastery in requirements engineering, systems integration, Verification & Validation (V&V), and Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). You will guide strategic system and decision analysis, technical planning, and risk management initiatives. You will manage critical project components, applying extensive expertise in architecture/design development, technical monitoring, and lifecycle management. Your role requires exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills to drive innovation, mentor senior engineers, and achieve strategic objectives.

Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate mastery in requirements engineering, systems integration, V&V, and MBSE.
  • Guide strategic system and decision analysis, technical planning, and risk management initiatives.
  • Manage critical project components and influence project direction.
  • Apply extensive expertise in architecture/design development, technical monitoring, and lifecycle management.
  • Exhibit exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Mentor senior engineers and drive innovation.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 14+ years of experience in systems engineering or related field.
  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
  • Expert proficiency with Systems modeling and simulation tools.
  • Extensive leadership experience in systems engineering.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of multiple Engineering principles and practices.
  • Progressive experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams.
  • Advanced understanding of requirements management, functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation; systems design, systems integration, technical risk identification and management strategies, and V&V principles.

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Expertise in advanced systems technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, cloud computing).
  • Familiar with real-time operating systems and embedded systems.
  • Experience with requirements management and system modelling tools, such as DOORS, Cameo, MATLAB.
  • Advanced Knowledge of industry-standard mechanical design principles, to include, but not limited to requirements management, MBSE.
  • Experience or certification in International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) standards [Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)].
  • Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry.
  • Progressive experience leading baseline definition and maturation in a complex development setting, including the use of high impact trade studies.
  • Ability to establish and track key Technical Performance Measurements (TPM).
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Agile methodologies and Scrum Master certification.

Essential Functions:

  • Ability to work on a computer for extended periods.
  • Hand/finger dexterity for system modeling and documentation.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid environment with occasional travel.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.

SNC offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires current/active Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.

SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination.Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.


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