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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Goldendale, WA

GXO Logistics

DC Logistics Associate

The Dalles, OR

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

... management systems and software, as well as proficiency in using basic office software (e.g ... Tolerate hot and cold work environments We engineer faster, smarter, leaner supply chains. GXO is a ...

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All JobsOperating System Engineer JobsOperating System Engineer Jobs in Goldendale, WA

Operating System Engineer information

See Goldendale, WA salary details

$56.4K

$134.1K

$176.1K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Goldendale, WA is $134,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,300.00 and $165,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Goldendale, WA are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities near Goldendale, WA with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Operating System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Goldendale, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,122 per year, or $64.5 per hour.
SCADA Control Systems Plant Specialist - Rufus, Oregon

SCADA Control Systems Plant Specialist - Rufus, Oregon

Portland General Electric Company

Rufus, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Portland General Electric rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At PGE, our work involves dreaming about, planning for, and realizing a smarter, cleaner, more enduring Oregon neighborhood. Its core to our DNA and we haven't stopped since we started in 1888. We energize lives, strengthen communities and drive advancements in energy that promote social, economic and environmental progress. We're always on the lookout for people passionate about leading and being a part of teams that are advancing innovative clean energy solutions that are also affordable and accessible to all.

This job will be located in Rufus, Oregon

Opening Statement

This position is open totwo P-levels:Associate Control Systems Specialist (Grade 5 / P1 - Entry)andControl Systems Specialist (Grade 6 / P2 - Intermediate).
The level at which an offer is made will bedeterminedbased on the selected candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.

Job Overview

As a Control Systems Specialist, you will deliver expert technical support for SCADA systems and Operational Technology computer networks across design, operations, and maintenance functions. This position requires strong analytical skills to interpret business processes and implement effective solutions.

Key Responsibilities:
MaintainandoptimizeSCADA software applications
Manage user access and permissions
Diagnosing and resolving complex communication issues
Support critical infrastructure including computer hardware, control systems, networking equipment, and fiber optic connections

What Sets You Apart:
Ability to work independently while collaborating with Subject Matter Experts and Project Engineers
Strong problem-solving skills with a talent for developing innovative solutions
Technicalexpertiseacross multiple platforms and systems
Forward-thinking approach to system optimization

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities for this role aredeterminedby P-level and are outlined separately below.

Responsibilities - Associate Control Systems Specialist (Grade 5 / P1 - Entry)

Production Control Systems

  • Assists in the configuration of devices used in the control systems andhelpstechnicians in troubleshooting problems.
  • Assistsengineering and project teams with programming, and commissioning of control systems.
  • Supports the modification of programs for various software applications for PLC, DCS, SCADA, and HMIs.
  • Assistsinmaintainingexisting DCS and HMI platform(s), Auxiliary control systems to minimize downtime and performance losses.
  • Maintains user access to control systems.

Troubleshooting and Analysis

  • With guidance, provide first-level support for troubleshooting system failures (controls/graphics, field devices, electrical). With guidance, support the troubleshooting of failures on IT platforms: Software Applications, Operating Systems and Computer Networks

Testing and Controls

  • Follows procedure complete performance tests of control equipment and systems. Documents testing results. Maintains testing procedures. Performs system performance audits and document results.

Consultation and Leadership

  • Participates in project design reviews to ensure P&IDs, instrumentation specs, and other engineering documents meet standards. Communicates with site managementregardingproduct design and schedule. Provides informationtoother team members.

Compliance and Reporting

  • Ensures all processes align toappropriate standards, regulations, and laws. Maintains compliance-related documentation.Runsreports and analyzes data as needed. Ensure safe work practices. Follows quality documentation forms and executes them prior, during and post to every testing process.

Project Coordination

  • Supports site operational maintenance or testing elements in support of engineering and construction needs.

Responsibilities - Control Systems Specialist (Grade 6 / P2 - Intermediate)

Production Control Systems

  • Leads site commissioning,activitiesand trains site personnel on control system applications.
  • Responsiblefor the modification of programs for various software applications for PLC, DCS, SCADA, andHMIs..
  • Responsible formaintaining/Enhancing existing DCS and HMI platform(s), Auxiliary systems minimize downtime and performance losses.
  • Provides advanced configuration and troubleshooting.
  • Performs and documents tasks in accordancetoregulatory or compliance standards.
  • Manages user access to control systems.

Troubleshooting and Analysis

  • Responsible for troubleshooting and resolution of control system failures (graphics, field devices, electrical). Lead in the troubleshooting of failures on IT platforms: Software Applications, Operating Systems, and Computer Networks.

Testing and Controls

  • Develops performance tests of controls equipment and systems and integrates the information for equipment trending and decision-making purposes. Develops andmaintainstesting procedures and documentation. Leads in system performance audits toidentifyand develop functional improvements and enhance controls.

Consultation and Leadership

  • Provides input in project design reviews to ensure P&IDs, instrumentation specs, and other engineering documents meet standards.Assistsproject teams with the creation of design and construction documents as they relate to control systems. Communicates with the site managementregardingproject design and schedule. Provides coaching, guidance, and feedback to other team members.

Compliance and Reporting

  • Ensures all processes align toappropriate standards, regulations, and laws. Maintains compliance-related documentation.Runsreports and analyzes data as needed. Ensure safe work practices. Develops and follows quality documentation forms and executes them prior, during and post to every testing process.

Project Coordination

  • Proactivelyidentifynew projects for the company and support design, construction, operation, maintenance, and testing elements in support of engineering and construction needs.

Education / Experience / Certifications

Education
Requires a degree in engineering, project management, or a related technical field or equivalent experience.

Experience

  • P1:Typicallytwo or fewer years of technical experience in control systems

  • P2:Typically2 or more years of technical experience in control systems

Certifications, Licenses and Training
CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+ Cisco CCNA preferred but notrequired.

MinimumCompetencies

Functional Competencies

Proficiencyby level:

  • P1: Basicproficiency

  • P2: Intermediateproficiency

  • Knowledge of PGE and industry requirements relating to the operation and maintenance of a power generation facility
  • Project management knowledge
  • Knowledgeof plant systems, operations, and maintenance concepts
  • Knowledge of applicable policies, rules, regulations, and codes in the utility engineering field
  • Knowledge of contract administration
  • Skills in systems used in the department, including budgeting system, outage management system, and general office-based systems and programs
  • Ability to review, evaluate and analyze technical information, policies, and reports
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and documents
  • Ability to manage stakeholders
  • Analytical thinking skills
  • Business acumen
  • Knowledge of Control System and SCADA system and networks
  • Knowledge of Control System Software Applications and Operating Systems

General Competencies

Proficiencyby level:

  • P1: Basicproficiency

  • P2: Intermediateproficiency

  • Business process interrelationships skills
  • Analytical thinking skills
  • Business acumen
  • Negotiation skills
  • Organization/prioritization skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Team-building skills
  • Written/oral communication skills

Physical, Schedule/Attendance, and Cognitive Demands

The following requirements apply to both P-levels of this position.

Cognitive Level
Intermediate: Consistent use of logic or scientific thinking to define problems, collect information,establishfacts, and draw valid conclusions

Cognitive
Ability to adhere to set response times, deadlines, and time-sensitive tasks
Ability to follow accuracy standards
Ability to follow through on decision-making tasks
Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively within a team environment
Ability to communicate and problem solve when under stress
Ability to respond and adapt to frequent change
Ability to accept and demonstrate self-awareness when provided constructive feedback
Ability to discern feedback and acknowledge ownership of areas of improvement
Ability to avoid future mistakes by applying reasonable skills to new but similar work situations or tasks
Ability to successfully collaborate with peers, managers, and others within the organization
Demonstrates sound memory
Ability to process new information to be applied consistently to work tasks

Schedule/Attendance
Ability to adhere to pre-established schedule
Ability to work long hours
Ability to work a variable schedule
Ability to report to work during severe inclement weather
Ability to consistently meet attendance standards
Ability to work shift schedule (occasionally)
Ability to work on-call schedule (occasionally)

Physical Capabilities
Valid driver's license required
Driving/travel-frequently
Computer use
Lifting/carrying up to 50lb
Elevated areas, confined spaces, uneven surfaces, stairs, ladders

Environment

Office environment
Plant environment
Field environment

Actual total compensation, including a performance based incentive bonus, is commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications, education, training, and internal equity.

PGE believes in rewarding dedicated performance. We provide a total rewards package that is designed to reward your contributions to the company, and, at the same time, support your well-being and professional development, both now and into the future. To find out more, click here.

Join us today and power your potential!

Assisting with storms or other Company emergencies is a part of all positions at Portland General Electric.

PGE is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the Recruiter associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.comor by calling 503-464-7250. The Recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process.

To be considered for this position, please complete the following employment application by the posting close date. Posting closes at midnight (Pacific Time) on the closing date below. If no date is listed, job is open until filled.

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