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Operating System Engineer Jobs in Provo, UT (NOW HIRING)

Principal Software Engineer - Test

Provo, UT

$127K - $171K/yr

TEE products are in engineering labs, in the field, and in production environments utilized for ... Prior experience in Windows Operating System and Microsoft Visual Studio is required. * Prior ...

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Operating System Engineer information

See Provo, UT salary details

$50.6K

$120.3K

$158K

How much do operating system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating system engineer in Provo, UT is $120,340.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $148,500.00 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 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 Provo, UT? For Operating System Engineer jobs in Provo, UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Systems Admin.- Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Poly

Linux Systems Admin.- Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Poly

Bright Metro

Bluffdale, UT

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

100% Onsite.

We are seeking System Administrators at all experience levels to support mission-critical operations in either Maryland OR Utah. These funded positions support high-performance computing (HPC) environments and mission operations sustainment activities, including monitoring, troubleshooting, maintenance, and optimization of complex Linux-based infrastructures.

We are seeking candidates with strong Linux administration skills and a passion for solving complex technical challenges. Whether your expertise is in platform engineering, networking, or storage systems, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and availability of mission-essential environments.

Responsibilities:

  • Monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot mission operations systems and infrastructure.
  • Install, configure, and administer Linux operating systems and applications.
  • Configure and manage file systems, networking services, and system resources.
  • Perform operating system and application troubleshooting in complex environments.
  • Develop and maintain Bash scripts to automate administrative tasks.
  • Compile, install, configure, and support software applications.
  • Support infrastructure automation and configuration management initiatives.
  • Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to resolve system issues and improve performance.
  • Document configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting processes.
  • Participate in system upgrades, maintenance activities, and operational support.

Note: Regardless of specialization, all team members are expected to perform core Linux system administration functions and contribute to overall system sustainment efforts.

Required Qualifications:

  • Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph security clearance. (MUST-HAVE)
  • U.S. Citizenship.
  • Experience administering Linux operating systems, including:
  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
  • CentOS
  • Rocky Linux
  • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)
  • Ubuntu
  • Experience with:
  • Linux installation and configuration
  • File system administration
  • TCP/IP networking
  • Operating system troubleshooting
  • Application troubleshooting
  • Bash scripting
  • Software compilation and installation
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in dynamic mission environments.

Benefits:

  • 3 Weeks Paid Time Off
  • 11 Federal Holidays
  • Medical and Dental Coverage
  • Short-Term Disability (STD)
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD)
  • Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage
  • 401(k) with up to 4% Company Match