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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Ability to keep systems running at peak performance, upgrade operating system, patches, and version ... engineering with experience in Red Hat Linux, Centos or Ubuntu. * Hands on experience with ...

Avanciers is seeking a highly skilled Field Support Engineer to join our team for an exciting ... Execute operating system deployments, device provisioning, re-imaging, and hardware refresh cycles ...

New

This role requires strong command-line (CLI) and operating system knowledge, along with experience ... Partner closely with engineering teams to design and implement continuous integration environments ...

System Software Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$127K - $156K/yr

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... operating systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel ...

System Software Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$127K - $156K/yr

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... operating systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel ...

Systems Software Engineer III

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$181K - $214K/yr

... of computer-operated systems, including network protocols. This role will also require ... Participates and leads all end user/customer system training requirements on assigned projects.

Systems Software Engineer III

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$181K - $214K/yr

... of computer-operated systems, including network protocols. This role will also require ... Participates and leads all end user/customer system training requirements on assigned projects.

Showing results 21-40

Operating System Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$56.7K

$134.9K

$177.1K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Portland, OR is $134,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,900.00 and $166,500.00 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Operating System Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating System Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Operating System Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Operating System Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Operating System Engineer job openings:

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

WHAT'S THE ROLE?

As an experienced Systems Engineer, you will be an expert in the field ofperimeterintrusion detection systems (PIDS),designand integration.We are seeking a Systems Engineer to support design, integration, and deployment of security solutions for critical infrastructure environments.

This role focuses on protecting high-risk facilities through advanced detection technologies, system integration, and operational reliability in critical settings.

The ideal candidate understands the unique operational, regulatory, and reliability requirements of critical infrastructure and can bridge the gap between physical security systems, networking, and operational technology.


YOUR
PRIMARY
RESPONSIBILITIES
AS AN IENET SYSTEMS ENGINEER:


System Design & Engineering:

  • Design and configure systems including mounted cameras, radars, lighting, and hybrid detection technologies
  • Develop system architectures that integrate PID with video surveillance, access control, PSIM, and SOC platforms (Genetec, Milestone, others).
  • Produce engineering documentation including system drawings, network diagrams, BOMs, and configuration standards.
  • Direct activities of multi-discipline engineering team consisting of 3-4 mechanical and electrical engineers.

Integration & Deployment:

  • Lead or support system integration, commissioning, and acceptance testing for PID solutions in live critical infrastructure environments.
  • Integrate PID systems with video management systems (VMS), alarm management systems, SCADA/OT networks, and enterprise security platforms.
  • Support field deployments, troubleshooting, tuning, and optimization to minimize false alarms while maintaining high detection performance.


Operations & Sustainment:

  • Provide technical oversight for deployed PID systems.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for system faults, alarms, and performance issues.
  • Support lifecycle management including upgrades, patches, and system refreshes.
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOP).


Compliance & Risk:

  • Ensure solutions align with critical infrastructure security standards and regulations (e.g., NERC CIP, TSA, DHS, DoD, ISO 27001/22301 as applicable).
  • Participate in security assessments, site surveys, and vulnerability analyses.
  • Support customer audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews.


Collaboration & Leadership:

  • Work closely with project managers and engineering stakeholders.
  • Provide technical guidance to installers, subcontractors, and junior engineers.
  • Participate in design reviews, customer workshops, and solution presentations.


TYPES OF PROJECTS & DRAWINGS:


  • Critical Infrastructure (CI) site plans: Utility sub-stations and service centers, hydro-electric dams and pumping stations, natural gas transfer stations.
  • System interconnect schematics and network mapping.
  • Process equipment layouts and mechanical mounts.
  • Large drawing sets, up to (60) pages of combined drawing types.


QUALIFICATIONS:


  • (7-10) years of related engineering experience including working with electrical contractors, technology integrators, and end users.
  • Mechanical or Electrical Engineering degree.
  • Ability to travel, depending on project load.
  • Provenability to leadengineeringprojects tosuccessfulclosurealongside Project Managementwithin scope of work and budget constraints.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and presentation in front of customers and integrators.
  • Proven ability to lead and delegate work to 3-4 engineers on large project-based engineering work.
  • Expert in network/PoE/electrical troubleshooting and product specific requirements for installation (hardware and software).
  • Professional Network Certifications or similar experience (preferred).
  • Expert in IP cameras, video analytics, recording and video management systems installation and commissioning.
  • Experience with Perimeter Security for Power Plants (Conventional and Nuclear) and Data Centers a strong plus.
  • Professional IP camera + video management system Certifications or similar experience (e.g. Genetec Security Center Enterprise Technical Certification, Axis Certified Professional, and others).
  • Proficiency in system hardening and data security.
  • Cybersecurity - CompTIA Security+ or equivalent a plus.
  • High skill level in 2D CAD (AutoCAD) required.
  • Experience in 3D CAD a plus (SolidWorks) or similar.


ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION:


  • Location: Wilsonville, OR
  • Reports To: Engineering Manager
  • Job Type: Full-Time