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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Symbotic

Manager, System Engineer

Joliet, IL · On-site

The System Engineer team is responsible for the optimization and performance of the system. As the ... Train and assist operators on overall system including automated adapters, vertical lifts ...

UpStream Global Services

Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

The System Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing ... Install, upgrade, and maintain operating systems, software applications, and system components.

UpStream Global Services

Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

The System Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing ... Install, upgrade, and maintain operating systems, software applications, and system components.

Biomerieux

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Build and improve digital workflows, operator interfaces, forms, and dashboards * Partner with ... manufacturing systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing ...

bioMerieux

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Manufacturing Systems Engineer Position Summary The Manufacturing Systems Engineer is responsible ... Build and improve digital workflows, operator interfaces, forms, and dashboards * Partner with ...

bioMérieux

Manufacturing System Engineer

Lombard, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

Build and improve digital workflows, operator interfaces, forms, and dashboards * Partner with ... manufacturing systems, controls, or related engineering roles in a regulated manufacturing ...

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All JobsOperating System Engineer JobsOperating System Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operating System Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$131.1K

$172K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Chicago, IL is $131,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,700.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Operating System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,050 per year, or $63 per hour.
Shift System Engineer

Shift System Engineer

Americaneagle.com

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary:
Americaneagle.com is a family-owned web design, development, and digital marketing agency focused on helping customers succeed in the digital space. They are seeking a Shift System Engineer to monitor and manage server and network operations, troubleshoot technical issues, and collaborate with internal teams to maintain best practices in networking and security.
Responsibilities:
• Monitor and manage server and network operations to ensure optimal performance and uptime.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues across a variety of systems and services.
• Work with and support:
• Windows IIS web servers
• Windows SQL database servers
• WordPress and Drupal hosting environments
• Email and multimedia services
• SFTP, DNS, and FTP
• Antivirus and security patch management
• Perform basic hardware troubleshooting as needed.
• Collaborate with internal teams to maintain best practices in networking, security, and hosting.
• Participate in continuous learning and innovation within the world of web hosting.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Willingness to work on a rotating shift schedule, including weekends.
• Basic hardware troubleshooting skills.
• Strong interest in web hosting technologies and IT innovation.
• Valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle.
Preferred:
• Experience with Windows operating systems.
• Basic knowledge of Linux operating systems.
• Familiarity with WordPress hosting providers.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Python, Bash) is a plus.
Company:
Americaneagle.com is essentially a one-stop shop offering a full range of solutions for anyone looking to succeed in their online endeavors. Founded in 1978, the company is headquartered in Des Plaines, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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