ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operating System Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Description SAIC has a need for a Systems Engineer position to support the Naval Surface Warfare ... The candidate will work with Tactical Operating Environment, in support of Weapon System ...

Stellar Solutions

AFCGI System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$135K - $195K/yr

AFCGI System Engineer Job Locations US-VA-Chantilly ID 2026-1955 Category Systems Engineer Required ... system operators and service providers, and other industry stakeholders including investors. At ...

Nightwing

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Perform operating system upgrades, patch management, lifecycle maintenance, and performance ... Advanced Network Engineering Design and implement advanced routing architectures utilizing:

Stellar Solutions Inc

AFCGI System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$135K - $195K/yr

... Engineering solutions for innovative new-entrant space companies, as well as established space ... system operators and service providers, and other industry stakeholders including investors. At ...

Redapt

Network System Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Network System Engineer Location: Manassas, VA (Onsite) Hours: 8-5 We are seeking a multi ... Operating systems: Familiarity with Linux and Windows Server administration and patching * Security:

Redapt

Network System Engineer

Manassas, VA

Network System Engineer Location: Manassas, VA (Onsite) Hours: 8-5 We are seeking a multi ... Operating systems: Familiarity with Linux and Windows Server administration and patching * Security:

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperating System Engineer JobsOperating System Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Operating System Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$126.1K

$165.6K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Virginia is $126,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $155,700.00 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 Virginia? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Operating System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,124 per year, or $60.6 per hour.
Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

SAIC

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 208 rated it services

Job description

Description SAIC has a need for a Systems Engineer position to support the Naval Surface Warfare Center Fleet Support, Branch at Dahlgren, Virginia. The successful candidate will participate in verifying the Operating Systems and Networks are specification compliant expertise installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Network Operating System with emphasis for time critical redundant paths and devices. Must be able to interpret network configurations, and demonstrate expertise installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Network Operating System with emphasis for time critical redundant paths and devices. The position requires competence in operational techniques and familiarity with Tactical Operating Environment, knowledge of Computer Operating Systems, UNIX/Linux, and Computer Networks practices. The candidate will work with Tactical Operating Environment, in support of Weapon System certification, testing, in laboratory and at-sea, deployment of software, and fleet support. Travel requirements: up to 35%, with travel primarily to CONUS and OCONUS Navy Stations. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: * Bachelor's degree and a minimum of five (5)) years of experience as a System Engineer with technical or operational experience in the related field
* Experience installing, configuring, updating, and troubleshooting Operating Systems with Linux/Unix development and interpretation of Linux/Unix scripts at a High level of Linux/Unix command line functionality and principles
* Knowledge of software- and hardware-implemented RAID and the protocols that support RAID
* Experience developing and proofing technical documentation
* Must be able to travel up to 35%
Required Security Clearance: * Active Secret clearance
Desired: * Major DOD Weapon System technical or engineering experience
* Electronic Technician level knowledge for Industrial applications and devices to include point to point communication protocols
* Demonstrable knowledge of python, Perl, or other computer languages. Knowledge of Regular Expressions and their use
* Able to interpret USN C-Level Weapon System Specifications then develop and execute test plans from the specifications
* Network knowledge, above CCNA level, for layer two network redundancy protocols such as Port Channels, HSRP, Virtual Switching Systems, STP; static and dynamic routing protocols, and the theory of operation of network switches and routers. Knowledge of TCP/IP protocol and analysis of TCP/IP captures Target salary range: $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply