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Operating Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soteria Reinsurance Ltd.

$60 - $80/hr

The Skills that are Key to this role Basic understanding of operating systems concepts. Knowledge of JCL (Job Control Language) and mainframe fundamentals is a plus. Familiarity with programming ...

New

Soteria Reinsurance Ltd.

WI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Skills that are Key to this role Basic understanding of operating systems concepts. Knowledge of JCL (Job Control Language) and mainframe fundamentals is a plus. Familiarity with programming ...

New

IDEALFORCE LLC

Mainframe Systems Programmer(34394)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$54.50 - $69.50/hr

Operating Systems experience should include expert knowledge of and experience with: z/OS z/AWARE ... The Sr. Systems Programmer position requires a minimum of 10 to 15 years in Data Processing, with 8 ...

Infojini Inc

z/os systems programmer

Clemson, SC · On-site

$46.50 - $59.25/hr

Responsible for the for the analysts, development, modification, installation, testing and maintenance of operating systems software. Possesses a strong understanding of systems programming ...

Halo Group

Z/OS Mainframe Systems Programmer

Anderson, SC · On-site

$50.25 - $64/hr

The Z/OS Mainframe Advanced Systems Programmer will be responsible for the analysis, development, modification, installation, testing and maintenance of operating systems software. This person needs ...

Syntricate Technologies

CICS Systems Programmer

The CICS Systems Programmer will be responsible for the installation, configuration, operation, and ... checks, operating system updates, validation of changes, and maintenance of operational and ...

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Operating Systems Programmer information

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How much do operating systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating systems programmer in the United States is $63.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63.46 and $63.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating systems programmer?

Operating Systems Programmers are specialized software engineers who design, develop, maintain, and optimize operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or macOS. Their work involves writing low-level code that manages hardware resources, handles system processes, and provides a platform for application software to run efficiently. They often work with programming languages like C, C++, and assembly, and need a deep understanding of computer architecture and system-level programming. Their role is crucial in ensuring the stability, security, and performance of computers and devices.

What are some common challenges faced by operating systems programmers in maintaining and updating legacy systems?

Operating Systems Programmers often encounter the challenge of maintaining and updating legacy systems, which can involve working with outdated programming languages, limited documentation, and hardware constraints. Adapting legacy code to integrate with modern technologies while ensuring system stability and security requires both technical expertise and creative problem-solving. Collaboration with hardware engineers and application developers is often necessary to address compatibility issues and deliver seamless updates. Staying up-to-date with industry best practices and emerging OS trends helps programmers anticipate and address these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating systems programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Systems Programmer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C and C++, a solid understanding of computer architecture, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), debugging tools, and experience with Unix/Linux or Windows kernel development are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving are critical soft skills for diagnosing and resolving complex system-level issues. These skills ensure the reliability, efficiency, and security of operating systems that form the foundation for all computer applications.

What is the difference between Operating Systems Programmer vs Device Driver Developer?

AspectOperating Systems ProgrammerDevice Driver Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skills in C/C++Bachelor's in Computer Engineering or related; expertise in hardware interfaces and C/C++
Work EnvironmentDevelops core OS components, often in a system programming environmentCreates and maintains hardware-specific drivers, often within OS or hardware teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by OS vendors, tech companies, and embedded systemsUsed by hardware manufacturers, OS vendors, and embedded systems

Both roles require strong programming skills in C/C++, but Operating Systems Programmers focus on core OS development, while Device Driver Developers specialize in hardware interface software. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within the system architecture.

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What are popular job titles related to Operating Systems Programmer jobs?

For Operating Systems Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Operating Systems Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Systems Programmer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,000 per year, or $63.5 per hour.

Associate Mainframe Operating Systems Programmer

Westlake, TX • On-site

Fidelity Investments
Investment Management and Consulting Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Fidelity Investmentsexternal

$52.75 - $67.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Fidelity Investments rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 273 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 154 rated financial services

Job description


Note: Fidelity will not provide immigration sponsorship for this position.
The Purpose of This Role: - We are seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Entry-Level Mainframe Systems Programmer to join our infrastructure team. This role provides an excellent opportunity to learn and support enterprise mainframe environments that power mission-critical business applications. The candidate will work alongside experienced system programmers to assist with system maintenance, software installation, automation, performance monitoring, and operational support.
The Value You Deliver
  • Assist in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of IBM z/OS and related system software.
  • Monitor mainframe system health, performance, and availability.
  • Support system upgrades, patches, and maintenance activities.
  • Help troubleshoot operating system, storage, networking, and middleware issues.
  • Assist with automation and scheduling tools used in the mainframe environment.
  • Support disaster recovery and business continuity testing activities.
  • Create and maintain system documentation, procedures, and knowledge articles.
  • Collaborate with application, operations, and infrastructure teams to resolve incidents.
  • Participate in problem determination and root cause analysis under guidance from senior team members.
  • Ensure compliance with organizational security and operational standards.

The Skills that are Key to this role
Technical / Behavioral
  • Basic understanding of operating systems concepts.
  • Knowledge of JCL (Job Control Language) and mainframe fundamentals is a plus.
  • Familiarity with programming languages such as COBOL, REXX, Python, or Java is advantageous.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Good communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Willingness to learn enterprise infrastructure technologies.

The Skills that are Good to Have for this role
  • Exposure to IBM z/OS environment through coursework, internships, or certifications.
  • Basic understanding of:
    • JES2
    • SDSF
    • TSO/ISPF
    • TSS/RACF
    • DFSMS
    • SMP/E
    • CICS, DB2, or MQ
  • Knowledge of scripting and automation concepts.
  • Understanding of ITIL processes and incident management.

How Your Work Impacts the Organization
Your work helps ensure the reliability, security, and availability of the organization's critical business systems. By supporting the mainframe platform, you enable billions of business transactions to run seamlessly every day, contributing directly to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
The Expertise We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.

Location : Westlake
Shift timings: 7 AM - 4 PM CST
Fidelity's Onsite Working Model
Fidelity is transitioning to a full-time onsite working model through a phased rollout across regions and roles. Currently, some roles and locations require 100% onsite presence, while others require less. Onsite expectations are likely to evolve as the rollout continues. This transition does not apply to fully remote roles.
Certifications:
Category:
Information Technology
Please be advised that Fidelity's business is governed by the provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Investment Company Act of 1940, ERISA, numerous state laws governing securities, investment and retirement-related financial activities and the rules and regulations of numerous self-regulatory organizations, including FINRA, among others. Those laws and regulations may restrict Fidelity from hiring and/or associating with individuals with certain Criminal Histories.

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