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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Mesa, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer II

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$76K - $113K/yr

Under the direction of the Director of Clinical Engineering, this position applies IT methods ... Requires ability to maintain integrity and performance of an operating system environment, and ...

Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ... Support desktop hardware and operating system set-up, imaging software loading, and antivirus ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating System Engineer information

See Mesa, AZ salary details

$53.1K

$126.2K

$165.7K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Mesa, AZ is $126,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $155,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating system engineer?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Operating System Engineer jobs in Mesa, AZ?

For Operating System Engineer jobs in Mesa, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Mesa, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Mesa, AZ are:

What cities near Mesa, AZ are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs?

Cities near Mesa, AZ with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating System Engineer job openings in Mesa, AZ as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,209 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

Mainframe ZOS System Programmer

Phoenix, AZ โ€ข On-site

Delan Associates, Inc.
Engineering Professional Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mainframe ZOS System Programmer
Location: Phoenix, AZ
The Mainframe z/OS System Programmer is responsible for the installation, customization, maintenance, and optimization of IBM z/OS operating systems and associated system software. This role ensures the stability, performance, security, and availability of mission-critical mainframe environments, supporting large-scale enterprise applications.
* This role requires employees to live in or around the Phoenix, AZ area. You will be responsible to be onsite 3 days a week. We will consider candidates who are willing to relocate to the area.
Responsibilities:
System Administration & Maintenance:
Install, configure, and maintain IBM z/OS operating systems.
Perform system upgrades, migrations (e.g., z/OS version upgrades), and apply maintenance (PTFs, APARs, RSUs).
Manage IPL processes, system initialization, and configuration (PARMLIB, PROCLIB, SYS1 datasets).
Monitor system health and performance using tools such as RMF, SMF, SDSF.
Subsystem Support:
Install, configure, and support key subsystems:
JES2/JES3
TSO/E, ISPF
USS (Unix System Services)
RACF (in coordination with security teams)
Work closely with DB2, CICS, IMS, MQ, and Storage teams for integration and support.
Performance & Capacity Management:
Analyze system performance metrics and implement tuning improvements.
Support capacity planning and resource optimization (CPU, memory, I/O).
Evaluate hardware upgrades (e.g., CPU/MIPS growth, z-series enhancements).
Problem Management & Troubleshooting:
Diagnose and resolve system-related issues, including system abends and failures.
Perform root cause analysis for outages and major incidents.
Work with IBM and vendors on problem determination and fixes.
Automation & Scheduling:
Develop and maintain automation using tools such as:
System REXX, CLIST
SA z/OS, NetView
Support job scheduling tools (e.g., CA7, Control-M where applicable).
Security & Compliance:
Support system-level security configurations aligned with RACF policies.
Ensure compliance with audit, regulatory, and enterprise security standards.
Assist in vulnerability remediation and patching activities.
Change & Release Management:
Execute changes through ITIL-based processes (ServiceNow or equivalent).
Prepare implementation plans, backout procedures, and validation steps.
Support weekend maintenance windows and IPL activities.
Documentation:
Create and maintain technical documentation, including:
System configurations
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Disaster Recovery plans