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System Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer II (Java)

Madison, WI · On-site

$136K - $204K/yr

Hands-on practical experience in system design, application development, testing, and operational stability * Strong core Java experience with clear understanding of advanced concepts in collection ...

A primary focus of this role is ensuring our backend systems are architected for scalability and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical ...

A primary focus of this role is ensuring our backend systems are architected for scalability and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical ...

A primary focus of this role is ensuring our backend systems are architected for scalability and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical ...

Software Engineer/Developer IV Job Summary: The Division of Information Technology (DoIT) is an ... Study system requirements, review existing setups, and create clear, detailed blueprints for ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Software Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$83.6K

$179.1K

$207.6K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Madison, WI is $179,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $174,300.00 and $206,600.00 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.
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $179,075 per year, or $86.1 per hour.
Lead Java Software Engineer

Lead Java Software Engineer

Resource Innovations

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Resource Innovations is seeking Lead Java Software Engineer to join our growing Software as a Service (SaaS) team. As a hands-on technical lead at Resource Innovations, you will be instrumental in the design, development and deployment of innovative cloud-based enterprise software used by leading Energy organizations. We are looking for candidates who want to work on things that make an impact on the world and are passionate about product craftsmanship.

This is remote position requiring occasional in-person office meetings for candidates residing in one of the following metro areas: San Francisco CA, Chicago IL, Phoenix AZ, Denver CO, Salt Lake City or Madison WI. 

We require candidates to currently reside in the United States. We are not offering visa sponsorship or extensions for this position. 

Resource Innovations (RI) is a women-led energy transformation firm focused on impact. Building on our expertise in energy efficiency, we're constantly expanding our portfolio of clean energy solutions to guide utilities through increasingly complex, connected challenges. Load flexibility. Electrification. Carbon reduction. With every step, we're leading the charge to power change.

  • Software Development: Lead and participate in the full software development life cycle of cloud-based enterprise applications, including design, development, testing, implementation, and support in a fast-paced, distributed environment.
  • Technical Design & Architecture: Design and develop cloud-native applications using Java, Spring Boot, and related frameworks. Work with REST/SOAP web services, API Gateways, and RDBMS to build scalable, high-performance systems. Ensure software designs meet performance, security, usability, reliability, and scalability requirements.
  • Code Quality & Review: Develop clean, maintainable, and well-documented code following best practices and design patterns. Conduct code reviews, provide feedback, and contribute to continuous improvement in development standards.
  • Troubleshooting & Optimization: Identify, analyze, and resolve complex technical issues, including production support and performance bottlenecks; optimize applications for performance and scalability.
  • Collaboration & Process: Collaborate cross-functionally with QA, DevOps, Product, and Business teams using Agile methodologies (Scrum, Jira, Confluence, Git) to deliver quality software solutions on time.
  • Continuous Improvement: Stay current with evolving technologies, including AI-assisted development practices, and recommend improvements to tools, frameworks, and engineering processes.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience: 8+ years of software development experience building high-performance, reliable, and scalable enterprise applications.

Technical Skills:

  • Languages & Frameworks: Strong proficiency with Java, Python and Spring Boot
  • Databases: MySQL and atleast one NoSQL database
  • Search & Observability: OpenSearch/Elasticsearch, log analytics, APM tools
  • Integrations & Data: Apache Camel, messaging systems like RabbitMq and Data pipelines
  • Cloud & DevOps: AWS services, CI/CD pipelines, Kubernetes(preferred)
  • Architecture: Microservices design and implementation experience

Soft Skills:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with critical thinking skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, distributed environment
  • Collaborative mindset with attention to quality and maintainability
  • Interest in sustainability and passionate about making a meaningful impact on the environment.

Preferred Experience:

  • Web Technologies: Angular experience a plus
  • AI Development Tools:  Hands-on experience or strong familiarity with AI-assisted coding tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Claude, or equivalent)
  • Domain Knowledge: Knowledge of the Energy industry and related software systems

Benefits

About Resource Innovations

Resource Innovations (RI) is a women-led energy transformation firm focused on impact. Building on our expertise in energy efficiency, we're constantly expanding our portfolio of clean energy solutions to guide utilities through increasingly complex, connected challenges. Load flexibility. Electrification. Carbon reduction. With every step, we're leading the charge to power change.

Resource Innovations is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, marital status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected status. In addition to federal law requirements, Resource Innovations complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company does work.

Compensation & Benefits

Resource Innovations offers competitive salaries based on a candidate's skills, experience and qualifications for the position.  The compensation range for the base salary for this position is $85,000 - $160,000. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus.  The stated salary represents the expected compensation for this position. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as the candidate's experience, education and location. 

At Resource Innovations, we believe supporting our people is essential to delivering impact. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote health, financial security, and work-life balance. This includes three weeks of paid vacation annually, paid holidays, a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, medical, dental and vision coverage, parental leave, an employee assistance program, commuter benefits, and additional supplemental offerings.

Employment with Resource Innovations is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check and reference check. If applicable to the position, a pre-employment drug screen may also be required.

The above job description and job requirements are not intended to be all inclusive. Resource Innovations retains the right to make changes or adjustments to job descriptions and/or job requirements at any time without notice.


Resource Innovations logo

About Resource Innovations

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Resource Innovations is a women-led organization offering software-enabled clean energy solutions for utilities as well as commercial, industrial, and residential energy customers. Our experts design and implement a suite of leading-edge services to support the rapidly changing industry through the clean energy transition. We leverage diversity across our team to accelerate energy innovation and make clean and sustainable energy more available, accessible, and affordable.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Half Moon Bay, CA, US

Year founded

2016

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