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System Software Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

The Software Engineer II role is responsible for building the tools that power our freight platform ... Write high quality distributed system software. Work in an agile development environment, always ...

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

The Software Engineer II role is responsible for building the tools that power our freight platform ... Write high quality distributed system software. Work in an agile development environment, always ...

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

The Software Engineer II role is responsible for building the tools that power our freight platform ... Write high quality distributed system software. Work in an agile development environment, always ...

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN

$83K - $114K/yr

The Software Engineer II role is responsible for building the tools that power our freight platform ... Write high quality distributed system software. Work in an agile development environment, always ...

As an Embedded Systems Software Engineer at Centrus Energy, you'll help power the next generation ... You'll evaluate performance, implement electrical system modifications, support instrumentation and ...

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, developing information systems by studying operations, developing, installing, and maintaining software solutions. The Software Engineer prioritizes ...

They build the systems that power AI-driven workflows at massive scale, enabling customers to ... This role reports to the Manager of Software Engineering and provides the opportunity to work on ...

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, developing information systems by studying operations, developing, installing, and maintaining software solutions. The Software Engineer prioritizes ...

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

... systems at U.S. Xpress. Position Functions: • Design, implement, test, deploy and maintain ... software engineering best practices to ensure a high standard of quality for all of the team ...

Engineer, II Software

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

... systems at U.S. Xpress. Position Functions: • Design, implement, test, deploy and maintain ... software engineering best practices to ensure a high standard of quality for all of the team ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

Some legacy systems are coded in Ladder Logic, but all new systems will be coded in either CodeSys or C/C++. The Control Software Engineer will work with the Electrical Engineer(s) on a project to ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

Some legacy systems are coded in Ladder Logic, but all new systems will be coded in either CodeSys or C/C++. The Control Software Engineer will work with the Electrical Engineer(s) on a project to ...

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System Software Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$75.3K

$161.3K

$187K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Tennessee is $161,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $157,000.00 and $186,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 TN? For System Software Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,301 per year, or $77.5 per hour.
Control System Software Engineer

Control System Software Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16433
Overview:
The Controls Integration Group at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is seeking a Control System Software Engineer who will focus on control system applications, system development and operations support. This position is part of the Controls Integration Group within the Control Systems Section, Research Accelerator Division of the Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
The group is responsible for maintaining and improving fully integrated control systems for the SNS Accelerator to ensure safe, high-reliability beam delivery to the target. These systems typically utilize PLC, VME, or MicroTCA hardware, integrated using the Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS) framework.
This position reports to the Controls Integration Group Leader. The group is currently focused on modernizing the control system environment. Ongoing upgrade projects include replacing legacy equipment with modern solutions, expanding those associated applications, and enhancing the control room operator experience using the latest software tools.
The selected candidate will support these modernization efforts by:
  • Developing EPICS applications to support embedded and FPGA based systems
  • Upgrading existing EPICS applications and user interfaces
  • Complete verification, deployment, and system integration of EPICS applications for production use

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Support the scientific mission of SNS by developing reliable, maintainable software for accelerator and target control systems as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Collaborate with group members, scientific staff and operations personnel to design, develop, maintain, and improve EPICS-based control systems.
  • Maintain and support existing production software, including performing troubleshooting and resolving bugs.
  • Create and maintain software documentation and accompanying training materials.
  • Adhere to Software Quality Assurance procedures, including managing source code in a central repository with version control systems and developing comprehensive software testing procedures.
  • Provide operational support, troubleshooting, and system improvements for accelerator and target control systems. While typical work hours are office-based, occasional off-hours or weekend support may be required to meet user facility needs.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality procedures and programs.
  • As a member of the ORNL scientific community, commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. The full code of conduct and a statement from the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • A BS degree in engineering, computer science or related field plus two or more years of relevant experience (a relevant MS degree will be considered with at least one year of experience)
  • Demonstrated experience with embedded systems and/or systems programming
  • Experience developing applications or systems programming in a Linux environment
  • Demonstrated programming experience in modern object-oriented programming languages, preferably C++
  • Proficiency with collaborative software development tools and practices, such as software debugger, version control, issue tracking, documentation

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with EPICS or a similar toolkit for developing distributed control systems
  • Exposure to additional programming languages, such as C, Python, Java or similar
  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems and software practices
  • Prior experience working in a scientific user facility
  • Experience with GitLab and CI/CD pipelines
  • Hands-on experience with in-field troubleshooting of software and hardware interfaces

Special Requirements:
  • Physical Requirements: Work involves some physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.
Benefits at ORNL:
We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available for certain positions.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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