ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operating Systems Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Tactical Operating Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_REMOTE Description SAIC has a need for a Tactical Operating Systems Engineer position to support the Naval Surface Warfare Center Fleet Support, Branch at Dahlgren, Virginia. The successful ...

SAIC

Tactical Operating Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_REMOTE Description SAIC has a need for a Tactical Operating Systems Engineer position to support the Naval Surface Warfare Center Fleet Support, Branch at Dahlgren, Virginia. The successful ...

SAIC

Tactical Operating Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Description SAIC has a need for a Tactical Operating Systems Engineer position to support the Naval Surface Warfare Center Fleet Support, Branch at Dahlgren, Virginia. The successful candidate will ...

M&T Bank Corporation

Systems Programmer - IBM z/OS

Clanton, AL · On-site

$81 - $135/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

## Systems Programmer - IBM z/OSApplyremote type: Remote Eligible, USAlocations: Remote, USAtime type ... Install, configure, maintain, and support IBM z/OS operating systems and related system software in ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnology JobsSoftware JobsSystems Software Engineer JobsOperating Systems Programmer Jobs

Operating Systems Programmer information

See salary details

$5

$63

How much do operating systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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.

More about Operating Systems Programmer jobs

What states have the most Operating Systems Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Operating Systems Programmer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Operating Systems Programmer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Systems Programmer jobs are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,000 per year, or $63.5 per hour.

Operating Systems Programmer II - 60008992

DGS Office of External Affairs

Tallahassee, FL • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

The Office of Information Technology Services at the Florida Department of Children and Families seeks a Systems Programmer II to support enterprise network infrastructure across multiple locations. The role involves implementation, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance of wired, wireless, cloud, and security infrastructure, working alongside senior engineers. This is an in-person position in Tallahassee that includes on-call rotation for after-hours support.

Key qualifications
  • Understanding of TCP/IP networking fundamentals including routing, switching, VLANs, DNS, DHCP, and wireless networking
  • Familiarity with Cisco enterprise networking solutions and network troubleshooting methodologies
  • Familiarity with Palo Alto Networks firewall concepts and security policy administration
  • Understanding of cloud networking fundamentals within Microsoft Azure and AWS
  • Ability to troubleshoot network and connectivity issues using a structured analytical approach
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply