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Senior Systems Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Hybrid Job Id: 13575-GMI # of Openings: 1 Auria is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to join our outstanding team in a hybrid position based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO:

The IT Sr. Systems Engineer is responsible for the engineering, administration, maintenance, and availability of the firm's IT systems, serving as the primary escalation point for Tier III ...

IT Sr. Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$113K - $140K/yr

The IT Sr. Systems Engineer is responsible for the engineering, administration, maintenance, and availability of the firm's IT systems, serving as the primary escalation point for Tier III ...

Senior Systems Integration Engineer Do you want to be a part of something innovative, relevant, and intellectually stimulating that has a meaningful impact? Come join our MxD team as we strive to ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$112K - $140K/yr

The Sr. IT Systems Engineer designs, implements, and supports the company's core infrastructure with a focus on Microsoft 365, Azure, identity, and endpoint management. This role ensures our systems ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$112K - $140K/yr

The Sr. IT Systems Engineer designs, implements, and supports the company's core infrastructure with a focus on Microsoft 365, Azure, identity, and endpoint management. This role ensures our systems ...

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Senior Systems Engineer - MSP Experience Required O-Lux Technologies is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer with prior Managed Service Provider (MSP) experience to join our growing team.

Showing results 21-40

Senior Systems Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36

$59

$83

How much do senior systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior systems programmer in Chicago, IL is $59.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.04 and $67.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior systems programmer?

Senior Systems Programmers are experienced professionals who design, implement, and maintain low-level software that enables computer systems and hardware to function efficiently. They often work on operating systems, device drivers, and system utilities, ensuring optimal performance and stability. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting complex system issues, optimizing code, and collaborating with other IT teams to support large-scale computing environments. Senior Systems Programmers typically have strong knowledge of languages like C, C++, and assembly, as well as deep understanding of operating system internals.

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

To thrive as a Senior Systems Programmer, you need strong expertise in computer science fundamentals, systems programming languages (like C/C++ or Assembly), and operating system internals, often backed by a relevant degree and significant experience. Proficiency with debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and familiarity with mainframe or server platforms are typically required, with certifications in specific technologies being advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These combined skills ensure robust, efficient, and secure system operations, which are critical for business continuity and technological advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems programmers, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Systems Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing complex legacy codebases, ensuring system scalability, and integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure. Addressing these challenges typically involves maintaining thorough documentation, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, and staying current with industry best practices through ongoing learning. Proactive communication and effective troubleshooting skills are also essential for resolving issues efficiently and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Programmer vs Systems Analyst?

AspectSenior Systems ProgrammerSystems Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CompTIA or MicrosoftBachelor's in Information Systems, Business, or related; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentIT departments, software development teams, technical supportBusiness units, IT departments, client-facing roles
Employer & IndustryTech companies, large enterprises, government agenciesBusinesses across industries, consulting firms, government
Search & Comparison IntentTechnical skills, programming, system maintenanceBusiness processes, system requirements, user needs

The main difference is that Senior Systems Programmers focus on coding, maintaining, and optimizing computer systems and software, while Systems Analysts primarily analyze business needs and design system solutions. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Senior Systems Programmer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Senior Systems Programmer job openings:

Senior Systems Engineer

Des Plaines, IL โ€ข On-site

Kranze Technology Solutions, Inc.
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturingย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$100K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description

KTS develops complex, cuttingโ€‘edge avionics and ground hardware and software solutions supporting digital interoperability, survivability, situational awareness, and data collection. We have a proven track record of delivering high quality products throughout the defense industry.

KTS is seeking a senior systems engineer to develop requirements, create algorithms, perform system design, and integrate and test KTS products with a focus on tactical networking. A strong knowledge of networking fundamentals is required. This is a fullโ€‘time position at the KTS facility in Des Plaines, IL.

Responsibilities
  • Work with system architects to develop and evaluate networking algorithms optimized to work in a tactical networking environment
  • Perform modeling and simulation to evaluate networking algorithm performance and support software development of a virtual routing environment tool
  • Develop systems requirements, test procedures and automated tools to evaluate system performance
  • Evaluate new tactical networking radios and communications systems to characterize their networking design and optimize integration with KTS products
  • Rapidly prototype and integrate new tactical radios and communication systems into existing networking designs
  • Assist with system integration, verification and validation, and effectiveness analysis
  • Support demonstration and test events with customers and Warfighters
Required Qualifications & Skills
  • Bachelorโ€™s or Masterโ€™s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering or related field with 10+ years of experience
  • Experience in networking and routing protocols
  • Experience with Linux operating systems and networking stack
  • Strong analytical, problemโ€‘solving skills with experience in algorithm design
  • Handsโ€‘on hardware and software troubleshooting skills
  • Comfortable with C/C++ or scripting language programming
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to travel
  • Ability to obtain Security Clearance, for which the United States Government requires United States citizenship
Other Preferred Skills
  • Experience with tactical MANET radios and HAIPE encryptors
  • Technical and integration background with a solid understanding of developing battlespace CONOPS and missionโ€‘oriented solutions

We recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure we are able to attract the best candidates. As required by law in this state, the estimated salary range for this position is $100,000-$150,000 and represents our good faith estimate as to what our ideal candidates are likely to expect. We tailor our offers within the range based on organizational needs, internal equity, market data, geographic zone, and the selected candidateโ€™s experience, education, industry knowledge, location, technical and communication skills, and other factors that may prove relevant during the selection process.

Benefits
  • Comprehensive Leave Plan (Paid Time Off)
  • Comprehensive Health Care package including Medical, Vision, Dental, Health Savings Account (HSA), and more
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid Overtime
  • Flex Time and Flexible Scheduling
  • Opportunities to travel
  • Tuition Reimbursement options
  • Casual work environment
About Kranze Technology Solutions

We are part of SPX Technologiesโ€™ Communication Technologies platform in the Detection & Measurement business segment. KTS is focused in the defense industry specializing in Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) systems, digital interoperability and networking, and program support for the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. We provide hardware and software product development, systems integration, system test and evaluation support, modeling and simulation analysis, and other engineering services to support the Warfighter. Each team member has significant opportunities to solve a variety of complex technical challenges in small teams while working hand in hand with our defense customers.

KTS is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other segmenting characteristics protected by law.

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any preโ€‘employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to:

Human Resources
847-737-7299
resumes@kranzetech.com

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