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System Programmer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

System Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Yes Base-2 Solutions is seeking a Systems Engineer who analyzes user's requirements, concept of operations documents, and high-level system architectures to develop system requirements specifications.

ManTech

System Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$165K - $295K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Systems Engineer to join our team in the Ft. Meade, MD area. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Analyzes user's requirements ...

JASINT

System Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD

$175K - $194K/yr

System Engineer Level 2 Location(s): Annapolis Junction, MD Hours : Regular Full-Time Salary Range: $175k - $194k/yr Clearance Requirements This position requires a current and active TS/SCI with ...

CTC Group

System Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

Summary CTC Group is seeking System Engineers for SETA positions to analyze user requirements, concept of operations documents, and high level system architectures to develop system requirements ...

Noblis

Systems Programmer

Washington, DC · On-site

... Airspace System (NAS) . The ideal candidate combines expertise in computer programming, data ... analysis, and software development with experience in aviation or complex technical environments.

Noblis

Systems Programmer

Washington, DC · On-site

... Airspace System (NAS) . The ideal candidate combines expertise in computer programming, data ... analysis, and software development with experience in aviation or complex technical environments.

Apogee Engineering

System Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$12K - $216K/yr

Apogee is actively seeking a full-time Systems Engineer, SME supporting US Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) NC3 Enterprise Center (NEC) Systems Engineering and Integration (SE&I) at Ft Meade, MD . Why ...

Tensley Consulting, Inc.

System Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

The Systems Engineer analyzes user's requirements, concept of operations documents, and high level system architectures to develop system requirements specifications. Analyzes system requirements and ...

CTC Group

System Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

Summary CTC Group is seeking System Engineers for SETA positions to analyze user requirements, concept of operations documents, and high level system architectures to develop system requirements ...

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System Programmer information

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How much do system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for system programmer in Washington is $56.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.82 and $70.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying programming job?

System programmers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as kernel developers or security experts, tend to have some of the highest salaries in programming. High-paying positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience with low-level languages like C or assembly, as well as knowledge of operating systems and hardware interaction.

How to become a systems programmer?

To become a systems programmer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience in programming languages like C or C++, understanding operating system concepts, and working with low-level programming tools are essential. Certifications or specialized training in systems development can also enhance job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a System Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Programmer, you need strong proficiency in low-level programming languages (such as C or Assembly), operating system concepts, and a relevant computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with development tools, version control systems like Git, and knowledge of platforms such as Unix/Linux are commonly required, along with certifications like Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) as a plus. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail help system programmers excel in troubleshooting and optimizing complex systems. These skills are crucial for ensuring robust, efficient, and secure computing environments that support organizational operations.

What does an IT programmer do?

A system programmer develops, maintains, and troubleshoots system software such as operating systems, device drivers, and utility programs. They often work with low-level programming languages like C or Assembly and use tools like debuggers and compilers. Their role ensures the efficient and secure operation of computer systems and hardware interactions.

What are system programmers?

System programmers are specialized software engineers who design, develop, and maintain system-level software, such as operating systems, device drivers, and utilities. Their work involves writing low-level code that manages hardware resources and ensures the efficient operation of computer systems. System programmers often work closely with hardware engineers to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues at the core of computing environments. They need strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, and Assembly, as well as a deep understanding of computer architecture.

How do system programmers typically collaborate with hardware and software teams during a project?

System programmers often work closely with both hardware engineers and software developers to ensure the smooth integration of operating systems, drivers, and other low-level components. They may participate in cross-functional meetings to align on system requirements, troubleshoot compatibility issues, and optimize performance. Clear communication and documentation are key, as system programmers frequently translate technical hardware specifications into efficient, reliable code. This collaborative approach helps ensure that new features or updates work seamlessly across the entire system.

Is system programming in demand?

System programming remains in demand due to the need for developing and maintaining operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems. Skills in languages like C and C++, along with knowledge of hardware interfaces, are highly valued in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and telecommunications.
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System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Programmer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,190 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
System Engineer

System Engineer

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

Annapolis, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

  • Requisition ID: 2633
  • Standard Title:
  • Required Security Clearance: Top Secret/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
  • Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
  • Work Type: On-Site
  • Shift: First
  • Referral Eligibility: Eligible
  • U.S. Citizenship Required? Yes

Job Description
Base-2 Solutions is seeking a Systems Engineer who analyzes user's requirements, concept of operations documents, and high-level system architectures to develop system requirements specifications. Analyzes system requirements and leads design and development activities. Guides users in formulating requirements, advises alternative approaches, and conducts feasibility studies. Provides technical leadership for the integration of requirements, design, and technology. Incorporates new plans, designs and systems into ongoing operations. Develops technical documentation. Develops system Architecture and system design documentation. Guides system development and implementation planning through assessment or preparation of system engineering management plans and system integration and test plans. Interacts with the Government regarding Systems Engineering technical considerations and for associated problems, issues or conflicts. Ultimate responsibility for the technical integrity of work performed and deliverables associated with the Systems Engineering area of responsibility. Communicates with other program personnel, government overseers, and senior executives.
Qualifications
  • Fourteen (14) years' experience as a SE in programs and contracts of similar scope, type and complexity is required.
  • Bachelor's degree in System Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or related discipline from an accredited college or university is required.
    • Five (5) years of additional SE experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.

Required Experience
  • Experience with Linux (command line, troubleshooting, basic bash scripting) as well as VMware vSphere, Cisco NXOS, IOS or ACI, NetApp storage, and Puppet.

Required Skills
  • Contribute to the development of sections of systems engineering documentation such as System Engineering Plans, Initial Capabilities Documents, Requirements specifications, and Interface Control Documents.
  • Manage system requirements and derived requirements to ensure the delivery of production systems that are compatible with the defined system architecture(s) - Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DoDAF), Service-oriented Architecture (SOA), etc.
  • Assist with the development of system requirements, functional requirements, and allocation of the same to individual hardware, software, facility, and personnel components.
  • Coordinate the resolution of action items from Configuration Control Board (CCB) meetings, design reviews, program reviews, and test reviews that require cross-discipline coordination.
  • Participate in an Integrated Product Team to design new capabilities based upon evaluation of all necessary development and operational considerations.
  • Participate in the development of system engineering documentation, such as System Engineering Plans, Initial Capabilities Documents, Requirements Specifications, and Interface Control Documents.
  • Participate in interface definition, design, and changes to the configuration between affected groups and individuals throughout the life cycle.
  • Allocate real-time process budgets and error budgets to systems and subsystem components.
  • Derive from the system requirements an understanding of stakeholder needs, functions that may be logically inferred and implied as essential to system effectiveness.
  • Derive lower-level requirements from higher-level allocated requirements that describe in detail the functions that a system component must fulfill, and ensure these requirements are complete, correct, unique, unambiguous, realizable, and verifiable.
  • Generate alternative system concepts, physical architectures, and design solutions.
  • Participate in establishing and gaining approval of the definition of a system or component under development (requirements, designs, interfaces, test procedures, etc.) that provides a common reference point for hardware and software developers.
  • Define the methods, processes, and evaluation criteria by which the systems, subsystems and work products are verified against their requirements in a written plan.
  • Develop system design solution that satisfies the system requirements and fulfills the functional analysis.
  • Develop derived requirements for Information Assurance Services (Confidentiality, Integrity, Non-repudiation, and Availability); Basic Information Assurance Mechanisms (e.g., Identification, Authentication, Access Control, Accountability); and Security Mechanism Technology (Passwords, cryptography, discretionary access control, mandatory access control, hashing, key management, etc.).
  • Review and provide input to program and contract work breakdown structure (WBS), work packages and the integrated master plan (IMP).

Pay & Benefit Highlights
Compensation
  • Competitive fixed salary or hourly pay (based on experience, skills, location, and internal equity).
  • Employee referral bonuses up to $10,000 per hired referral.
  • Additional bonus opportunities for exceptional performance and contributions to business development and company growth (role-dependent).
Health
  • 100% company-paid medical premiums for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Choose from multiple plan options with CareFirst, Kaiser, and UnitedHealthcare, including PPO, POS, HMO, and HSA-compatible plans.
  • 100% company-paid dental premiums for employees and eligible dependents.
  • 100% company-paid vision premiums for employees and eligible dependents.
Income Protection
  • 100% company-paid premiums for short-term disability.
  • 100% company-paid premiums for long-term disability.
  • 100% company-paid premiums for accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D).
  • 100% company-paid premiums for life insurance up to $200,000.
Retirement
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting: 4% company match plus a 4% non-elective company contribution (8% total).
  • 401(k) pre-tax and Roth options.
Leave
  • Up to 20 days of flexible paid time off (PTO).
  • 11 paid floating holidays.
Work-Life Balance
  • Flexible work schedules, including flex time and compressed work periods (contract and project-dependent).

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