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

Humana

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$107K - $147K/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 ...

Humana

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$107K - $147K/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 ...

PTR Global

Senior z/OS Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Position: System Engineer V Location: Chicago, Illinois Duration: Contract Job ID: 177753 Job ... Working knowledge of the following: * z/OS operating systems, including JES2. * IBM Assembler ...

Ensono

Senior Systems Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site +1

$104K - $142K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining components ... Perform installation and configuration of software including operating system, patches, and 3rd ...

Aquatic Capital Management

Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

Diagnose and resolve the hardest, most obscure system issues that others cannot get to the bottom ... Hands-on experience building and operating cloud infrastructure on GCP (or comparable major cloud ...

Aquatic Capital Management

Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

Diagnose and resolve the hardest, most obscure system issues that others cannot get to the bottom ... Hands-on experience building and operating cloud infrastructure on GCP (or comparable major cloud ...

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

Operating System Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.2K

$131.2K

$172.2K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Chicago, IL is $131,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,900.00 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 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
Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer

Humana

Chicago, IL • Remote

$107K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Humana rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 262 rated insurance

Job description

Become a part of our caring community
The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for design, analysis, configuration and maintenance of complex systems software solutions, based on a thorough knowledge of systems engineering and programming concepts and techniques. Systems software engineering/programming is a specialized area of software engineering/programming focused on software that operates/controls computer hardware and provides a platform for running end user applications. 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 complex issues where the analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors.

The Senior Systems Engineer develops and/or modifies systems software for use internally. The engineer conducts requirements gathering and analysis. The engineer writes code using lower-level assembly languages and/or higher-level languages (e.g., C) and translates/compiles into machine language for use on specific hardware. The engineer supports software testing, deployment, and maintenance activities by correcting programming errors and coding software enhancements. Begins to influence department's strategy. Makes decisions on moderately complex to complex issues regarding technical approach for project components, and performs work without direction. Exercises considerable latitude in determining objectives and approaches to assignments.

The Senior Systems Engineer will play a key role in designing, automating, and supporting critical infrastructure and applications at Humana, with a focus on Power Apps, Power BI, AI integration, and secure, compliant cloud environments. This role collaborates across teams to ensure operational excellence, compliance, and innovative automation.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Automation & Platform Engineering:
    • Develop, implement, and maintain automation solutions within Power Apps and Power BI, leveraging industry best practices and emerging technologies.
    • Integrate AI-driven enhancements to streamline data processes, improve business insights, and automate workflows.
    • Contribute to the design and optimization of CI/CD pipelines, utilizing tools such as Azure DevOps and GitHub Actions.

Use your skills to make an impact

Required Qualifications

  • 5 - 8 years as a Systems Engineer in design, analysis, configuration and maintenance of complex systems software solutions, based on a thorough knowledge of systems engineering and programming concepts and techniques
  • Highly Experienced in Systems software engineering/programming is a specialized area of software engineering/programming focused on software that operates/controls computer hardware and provides a platform for running end user applications
  • Comprehensive expertise Includes operating systems, device drivers, utilities, and software; development tools (e.g., assemblers, compilers, etc.)
  • Must be passionate about contributing to an organization focused on continuously improving consumer experiences

Preferred Qualifications

  • Masters Degree in a Technical Field
  • Infrastructure Industry related Certification

Additional Information

Work-At-Home Requirements

  • WAH requirements: Must have the ability to provide a high speed DSL or cable modem for a home office. Associates or contractors who live and work from home in the state of California will be provided payment for their internet expense.
  • A minimum standard speed for optimal performance of 25x10 (25mpbs download x 10mpbs upload) is required.
  • Satellite and Wireless Internet service is NOT allowed for this role.
  • A dedicated space lacking ongoing interruptions to protect member PHI / HIPAA information
Travel: While this is a remote position, occasional travel to Humana's offices for training or meetings may be required.

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Pay Range

The compensation range below reflects a good faith estimate of starting base pay for full time (40 hours per week) employment at the time of posting. The pay range may be higher or lower based on geographic location and individual pay will vary based on demonstrated job related skills, knowledge, experience, education, certifications, etc.


$97,900 - $133,500 per year


This job is eligible for a bonus incentive plan. This incentive opportunity is based upon company and/or individual performance.

Description of Benefits

Humana, Inc. and its affiliated subsidiaries (collectively, "Humana") offers competitive benefits that support whole-person well-being. Associate benefits are designed to encourage personal wellness and smart healthcare decisions for you and your family while also knowing your life extends outside of work. Among our benefits, Humana provides medical, dental and vision benefits, 401(k) retirement savings plan, time off (including paid time off, company and personal holidays, volunteer time off, paid parental and caregiver leave), short-term and long-term disability, life insurance and many other opportunities.
About us
About Humana: Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) is a leading U.S. healthcare company. Through our Humana insurance services and our CenterWell healthcare services, we make it easier for the millions of people we serve to achieve their best health - delivering the care and service they need, when they need it. These efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare and Medicaid, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large. Learn more about what we offer atHumana.comand atCenterWell.com.


Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of Humana not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. It is also the policy of Humana to take affirmative action, in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and VEVRAA, to employ and to advance in employment individuals with disability or protected veteran status, and to base all employment decisions only on valid job requirements. This policy shall apply to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, upgrading, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, recall, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation and selection for training, including apprenticeship, at all levels of employment.

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About Humana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Humana Inc., headquartered in Louisville, KY., is a leading health care company that offers a wide range of insurance products and health and wellness services that incorporate an integrated approach to lifelong well-being. By leveraging the strengths of its core businesses, Humana believes it can better explore opportunities for existing and emerging adjacencies in health care that can further enhance wellness opportunities for the millions of people across the nation with whom the company has relationships.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Louisville, KY, US

Year founded

1961

Social media

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