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System Software Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Principal Software Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$125K - $168K/yr

Ensures that product outcomes meet customer needs and that customer and company technical, system ... Oversee the associated software engineering efforts, including estimating, planning, requirements ...

Company Description Miracle Software Systems, Inc. is Premier Partner of IBM and a National ... Key Responsibilities: - Software developer with responsibilities to Define, Design, Develop, and ...

Company Description Miracle Software Systems, Inc. is Premier Partner of IBM and a National ... Key Responsibilities: - Software developer with responsibilities to Define, Design, Develop, and ...

Software Engineer

Orion, MI · On-site

$135K/yr

Software Engineer Minimum 2 Years experience as a Software Engineer Venteon is currently seeking an experienced Software Engineer to fill a opening with a systems integrator company located in Metro ...

Software Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Software Engineer Full-time Kalamazoo, MI, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with ... Define and document system and software requirements and perform technical feasibility studies

Firmware/Embedded Software Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Design and implement software of embedded devices and systems from requirements to production and ... Bachelor's degree in electrical/computer Engineering or related field EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT(S ...

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System Software Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$72.3K

$154.9K

$179.5K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Michigan is $154,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,800.00 and $178,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries like finance or tech, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What does a systems engineer do in software?

A systems engineer in software designs, develops, and maintains complex software systems, ensuring they function efficiently and reliably. They often work with system architecture, integration, and troubleshooting, using tools like scripting languages and version control. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of operating systems and networking are essential for this role.

What does a System Software Engineer do?

A System Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains the core software that enables computer hardware and system applications to function. This includes operating systems, device drivers, firmware, and other low-level software that interacts closely with hardware components. Their work ensures that systems run efficiently, securely, and reliably. They often collaborate with hardware engineers and application developers to optimize performance and troubleshoot complex technical issues.

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

To thrive as a System Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or Rust, a deep understanding of operating systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with low-level debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and kernel development environments is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, high-performance system software that underpins critical applications and infrastructure.

Will AI replace system engineers?

System software engineers design, develop, and maintain complex systems and rely on skills such as programming, troubleshooting, and system analysis. While AI can automate certain tasks like monitoring and routine maintenance, it is unlikely to fully replace system engineers, as their expertise is needed for system design, problem-solving, and adapting to new technologies. AI tools serve as assistants to enhance efficiency rather than replace the role entirely.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand areas like technology or finance, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills in programming and system design, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

What is the difference between System Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystem Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; often some experience with systems programmingBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; focus on application development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining operating systems, firmware, or system-level applicationsCreating user-facing applications, websites, or mobile apps
Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, embedded systemsSoftware firms, startups, enterprise applications
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to system-level programmingLooking for application or web development roles

System Software Engineers focus on developing and maintaining system-level software like operating systems and firmware, requiring knowledge of hardware and low-level programming. Software Developers typically create applications and user-facing software, emphasizing higher-level programming skills. Both roles often share similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work focus and environment.

What are some common challenges System Software Engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

System Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as maintaining system stability while integrating new features, ensuring compatibility across diverse hardware platforms, and optimizing performance under heavy workloads. Coordinating with cross-functional teams, such as hardware engineers and application developers, is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, they must stay updated with evolving technologies and adhere to rigorous testing and debugging practices to prevent system failures.
What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in MI? For System Software Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Systems Software Engineer II

Systems Software Engineer II

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$171K - $202K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

248th of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Basic Purpose:
Positions in the Systems Software Engineerjob family are responsible for evaluating, selecting, installing, andmaintaining enterprise operating systems and technical applications forassigned platforms including enterprise servers and networks and for serving asa technical resource on enterprise hardware issues.  Incumbents interact with technical andbusiness customers to provide training and expertise in the design of specificapplications to ensure the optimization of the platforms or technologies involved.  The focus of work is on the efficientoperation of enterprise operating platforms to support customer applicationsand the effective use of hardware and operating software in new or enhancedapplications.
Essential Functions:
The functions within the job family willvary by level and specific assignment but will include the following:
Evaluate, install, customize, configure, and maintain enterprise operating systems including installing and testing new releases;
Evaluate operating efficiency, analyze performance and tuning, and assist in capacity planning and DASD management;
Analyze and troubleshoot operating problems to find problem areas and make fixes or work with the vendor for correction;
Advise technical staff in complex applications development to assist in avoiding problems of incompatibility with software capabilities;
Document changes to system functions and/or configurations for technical and customer reference; and
Review and evaluate new or upgraded systems software packages and related hardware and make recommendations based on established standards.
Level Descriptions:
The Systems Software Engineer family hasfour levels:
Systems Software Engineer I
This is the proficiency level where incumbents apply their basic skills andexpertise, typically with a
specific operating system andplatform.  They perform routineassignments to complete system change and modification requests and assisthigher level staff in all aspects of maintaining, updating, documenting, and monitoringthe operating systems.  Incumbents alsoprovide continuing support for their assigned operating system,trouble-shooting and resolving common immediate problems.  Work is assigned to provide a broaderknowledge of the technology supported and to develop a high level of creativeproblem-solving in preparation for qualification at the next level of thefamily.
Systems Software Engineer II
This is the career level where incumbents are fully knowledgeable in theoperating system and platform- supported and work as a part of a team todevelop or install new systems software or supporting applications.  The emphasis at this level is the incumbent'sability to identify and resolve all but the most unusual operating systemsproblems quickly and with dispatch.  While at this level, incumbents are increasing their knowledge andexpertise in a complex operating system and platform or are expanding theircapabilities in a second technology.  They may also have specific assignments in areas such as performancetuning, security, disaster recovery, and the like to broaden their overallknowledge of their assigned technology.
Senior Systems Software Engineer
This is the specialist level where incumbents have full and specializedknowledge in their assigned operating system(s).  This may be a single, highly complex systemor multiple, less complex systems.  Incumbents have primary accountability for the installation,maintenance, and operating efficiency of their assigned systems.  They work with a high degree of independence,providing technical leadership and work review for less experienced staff.  Individuals at this level are able toidentify and resolve the most complex system-related problems and deal directlywith key vendor service representatives.  Their work is characterized by the rapid application of technicalknowledge to increase the efficiency and operation of the platform(s)supported.  Incumbents may also be aSubject Matter Expert for their assigned system serving as third-tier supportfor operating problems and technical consultant on complex applicationsdevelopment projects.  They are keymembers of project teams for enterprise applications involving their assignedsystem.
Lead Systems Software Engineer
This is the leadership level where incumbents are recognized experts in acomplex operating system and related areas such as network or databaseapplications.  Incumbents lead projectsfor major upgrades or  installations,providing technical guidance and work direction to technical staff and ensuringthat projects are completed smoothly and on time.  Incumbents may also be a Subject MatterExpert for an enterprise-wide system, assisting in technology planning andserving as a technical consultant on enterprise applications developmentproject teams.  They may also have formalleadership responsibilities for enterprise-wide functions such as security,disaster recovery, and the like.


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