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Operating Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

kgs

Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

The Systems Engineer plays a crucial role in the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex ... Provide direct support in the day-to-day operations of network hardware and operating systems ...

kgs

Systems Engineer

Washington, DC

The Systems Engineer plays a crucial role in the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex ... Provide direct support in the day-to-day operations of network hardware and operating systems ...

Koniag, Inc.

Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

The Systems Engineer plays a crucial role in the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex ... Provide direct support in the day-to-day operations of network hardware and operating systems ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA

$80K - $120K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The successful candidate will participate in verifying the Operating Systems and Networks are ...

Bridge Core (BCore)

Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Engineer, support, and troubleshoot Windows 10 (and up) desktop operating systems, including establishing new build and deployment methods for Windows workstations. * Engineer, support, and ...

XSITE LLC

Systems Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$147K - $161K/yr

Integrate various network operating systems, application programs, and hardware devices to ensure compatibility, functionality, and resilient system performance. * Participate in systems engineering ...

XSITE LLC

Systems Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$147K - $161K/yr

Integrate various network operating systems, application programs, and hardware devices to ensure compatibility, functionality, and resilient system performance. * Participate in systems engineering ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The successful candidate will participate in verifying the Operating Systems and Networks are ...

Pcom

Systems Engineer

Moultrie, GA · On-site

This is achieved by monitoring, maintaining, supporting, and optimizing all networked servers, storage devices, authentication sources, and associated operating systems. The Systems Engineer will ...

Ardent Principles, Inc

Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Working with network requirements to anticipate impact on respective operating systems ... Working with system developers to elicit requirements and engage in joint project planning.

XSITE LLC

Systems Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111K - $141K/yr

Integrate various network operating systems, application programs, and hardware devices to ensure compatibility, functionality, and resilient system performance. * Participate in systems engineering ...

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Operating Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do operating systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Operating Systems Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or a related field, deep knowledge of operating system architecture, and proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python. Familiarity with Unix/Linux, Windows system internals, virtualization technologies, and certifications like RHCE or Microsoft Certified: Windows Server are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in troubleshooting complex issues and working with cross-functional teams. These competencies are vital for maintaining secure, efficient, and reliable system environments in diverse enterprise settings.

What does an Operating Systems Engineer do?

An Operating Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing operating systems to ensure efficiency and security. They work with various OS platforms such as Windows, Linux, and Unix, managing system performance, troubleshooting issues, and applying updates or patches. Additionally, they may collaborate with software developers, IT teams, and security specialists to support infrastructure and improve system reliability. Their role often includes automation, scripting, and ensuring system compliance with organizational policies.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Operating Systems Engineer?

Operating Systems Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining operating system environments, which includes performing system upgrades, patch management, and troubleshooting performance issues. On a daily basis, they often collaborate with software developers, network engineers, and IT security teams to ensure optimal system functionality and security compliance. Regular tasks may also include scripting automation, monitoring system health, and creating documentation for internal processes. This role offers ongoing learning opportunities due to evolving technologies and often involves participation in on-call rotations or emergency response to critical system failures.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Operating Systems Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in system architecture, and certifications such as CISSP or RHCE can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Operating Systems Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in system architecture, and certifications such as CISSP or RHCE can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or senior leadership roles. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and company size, with some senior or specialized engineers reaching this compensation level.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or cybersecurity can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

What does an OS engineer do?

An Operating Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains operating system software, ensuring system stability, security, and performance. They often work with kernel development, device drivers, and system utilities, using programming languages like C and C++, and may troubleshoot hardware and software issues in complex computing environments.
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Operating Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Systems Engineer (Servers / Operating Systems) ? Level II

Systems Engineer (Servers / Operating Systems) ? Level II

RIVIDIUM

Quantico, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

RiVidium Inc. is seeking a skilled Systems Engineer (Servers / Operating Systems) ? Level II to plan, design, implement, and sustain enterprise server and operating system environments that support secure, reliable, and scalable computing services.

The ideal candidate will possess broad technical expertise across server platforms, virtualization technologies, cloud-enabled infrastructure, and cybersecurity operations. This role requires collaboration with Government personnel, vendors, engineering teams, and cybersecurity stakeholders to deliver mission-focused infrastructure solutions within secure enterprise environments.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan, design, implement, and maintain enterprise server and operating system environments
  • Support secure, scalable, and highly available computing services across physical, virtualized, and cloud-enabled infrastructures
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions that improve performance, security, and operational effectiveness
  • Engineer and support enterprise data center infrastructure solutions
  • Administer and support:
    • Windows Server environments
    • VMware virtualization platforms
    • Enterprise platform technologies and system-level applications
  • Support cloud and hybrid infrastructure environments, including:
    • Microsoft Azure
    • AWS DevOps-enabled environments
    • Kubernetes
    • Containers and clustering technologies
  • Coordinate and support cybersecurity activities associated with RMF continuous monitoring processes
  • Maintain secure system baselines and support vulnerability mitigation and remediation efforts
  • Ensure compliance with organizational cybersecurity standards and security requirements
  • Collaborate with Government personnel, vendors, and multi-disciplinary engineering teams
  • Prepare and deliver technical documentation, engineering analyses, and graphical presentations for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Provide technical direction and guidance to subordinate staff as needed
  • Deliver responsive customer support across all organizational levels in a dynamic operational environment
 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI clearance required at contract start
  • Minimum 5 years of progressive experience operating computer systems consistent with enterprise infrastructure environments
  • Experience engineering and supporting enterprise data center environments
  • Broad experience with virtualization technologies supporting enterprise computing capabilities
  • Experience with some or all of the following:
    • Windows Server
    • VMware
    • Enterprise platform technologies
    • System-level applications
  • Familiarity with or experience supporting cloud-enabled services and environments, including:
    • Microsoft Azure
    • AWS DevOps environments
    • Kubernetes
    • Clusters and container technologies
  • Experience supporting cybersecurity and system security activities associated with RMF continuous monitoring
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare technical documentation and engineering presentations
  • Proven ability to provide excellent customer support across technical teams, management, and executive stakeholders
 

Required Certifications

  • CompTIA Security+ certification required
  • Must meet DoD 8570.01-M IAT II certification requirements
 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience designing and implementing enterprise server and operating system solutions in secure or mission-critical environments
  • Experience evaluating emerging technologies and making engineering recommendations based on operational needs
  • Experience supporting hybrid infrastructures integrating on-premises, virtualized, and cloud-based systems
  • Microsoft Azure certifications such as:
    • Azure Administrator Associate
    • Azure Solutions Architect Expert
  • VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification
  • Experience with cloud-native technologies, container orchestration, and platform modernization initiatives
  • Experience working directly with Government customers, vendors, and cross-functional engineering teams
  • Experience supporting enterprise modernization and cloud adoption initiatives

Apply