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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer III (This is a remote position open to applicants residing in TX, NM, AZ, CO, or ... Perform advanced configuration, deployment, and implementation of software, operating systems ...

Systems Engineer III (This is a remote position open to applicants residing in TX, NM, AZ, CO, or ... Perform advanced configuration, deployment, and implementation of software, operating systems ...

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Operating System Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$51.1K

$121.5K

$159.5K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Houston, TX is $121,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,600.00 and $149,900.00 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 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 Houston, TX? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,487 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

OS/Software EngineerThis role has been designed as ''Onsite' with an expectation that you will primarily work from an HPE office.

Who We Are:

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is the global edge-to-cloud company advancing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, protect, analyze, and act on their data and applications wherever they live, from edge to cloud, so they can turn insights into outcomes at the speed required to thrive in today's complex world.Our culture thrives onfinding new and better ways to accelerate what's next.We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs.We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good. If you are looking to stretch and grow your career our culture will embrace you.Open up opportunities with HPE.

Job Description:

Job Family Definition:

Designs, develops, troubleshoots and debugs software programs for software enhancements and new products. Develops software including operating systems, compilers, routers, networks, utilities, databases and Internet-related tools. Determines hardware compatibility and/or influences hardware design.

Management Level Definition:

Contributions include applying intermediate level of subject matter expertise to solve common technical problems. Acts as an informed team member providing analysis of information and recommendations for appropriate action. Works independently within an established framework and with moderate supervision.

Responsibilities:

  • Partners with multiple project teams of other software systems engineers and internal and outsourced development partners responsible for all stages of operating system enablement for complex products and platforms, including solution analysis, testing, and integration.
  • Identifies and debugs issues observed during the test and enablement of operating systems on Synergy products; provides tangible feedback to improve product quality and mitigate failure risk.
  • Participates as a member of project team of other software systems engineers and internal and outsourced development partners to develop reliable, cost effective and high quality solutions for assigned systems portion or subsystem.
  • Collaborates and communicates with internal and outsourced development partners regarding software systems design status, project progress, and issue resolution.

Education and Experience Required:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent.
  • Typically 2-4 years experience.

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Experience with multiple operating systems (VMware, Linux, Windows) and test tools.
  • Using software systems design tools and languages.
  • Ability to apply analytical and problem solving skills.
  • Software systems testing methodology, including execution of test plans, debugging, and testing scripts and tools.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; mastery in English and local language. Ability to effectively communicate design proposals and negotiate options.

What We Can Offer You:

Health & Wellbeing

We strive to provide our team members and their loved ones with a comprehensive suite of benefits that supports their physical, financial and emotional wellbeing.

Personal & Professional Development

We also invest in your career because the better you are, the better we all are. We have specific programs catered to helping you reach any career goals you have - whether you want to become a knowledge expert in your field or apply your skills to another division.

Unconditional Inclusion

We are unconditionally inclusive in the way we work and celebrate individual uniqueness. We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good.

Let's Stay Connected:

Follow @HPECareers on Instagram to see the latest on people, culture and tech at HPE.

#unitedstates#compute

Job:

Engineering

Job Level:

TCP_02"The expected salary/wage range for this position is provided below. Actual offer may vary from this range based upon geographic location, work experience, education/training, and/or skill level.
- United States of America: Annual Salary USD 92,700 - 213,500 in Texas
The listed salary range reflects base salary. Variable incentives may also be offered."

Information about employee benefits offered in the US can be found at https://myhperewards.com/main/new-hire-enrollment.html

HPE is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or any other protected category, and all decisions we make are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Our goal is to be one global team that is representative of our customers, in an inclusive environment where we can continue to innovate and grow together. Please click here: Equal Employment Opportunity.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is EEO Protected Veteran/ Individual with Disabilities.

HPE will comply with all applicable laws related to employer use of arrest and conviction records, including laws requiring employers to consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories.

Recruitment Fraud Alert

We have become aware of an increase in fraudulent recruitment activities in which individuals impersonate our company or authorized recruitment agencies to offer fake employment opportunities. These scams may occur through false websites, emails, social media, or chat-based applications and often aim to obtain personal information or money. Please note that Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and its authorized recruitment agencies/vendors will never charge a candidate a registration fee, hiring fee, or any other fee in connection with its recruitment and hiring process. We also never request personal information such as back account details, Social Security numbers, or national IDs via social media or chat applications.

All legitimate job opportunities will come through official company channels, and candidates are responsible for verifying the credentials of any third party claiming to represent the company. Any reliance on fraudulent communication is at the individual's own risk, and HPE disclaims legal liability for any resulting damages. If you suspect recruitment fraud, do not share personal information or make any payments and report the incident to your local authorities immediately.