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Systems Developer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

People Systems Developer

Boston, MA · On-site

$145K - $215K/yr

We're looking for a People Systems Developer to design and deploy AI-native workflows that transform how we hire, develop, and support our employees. This is a high-impact hands-on builder role. You ...

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Systems Developer information

See Boston, MA salary details

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How much do systems developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems developer in Boston, MA is $53.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.90 and $62.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Systems Developer?

A systems developer designs software applications and computer systems for business use. Your job duties as a systems developer include designing system architecture, developing applications, testing projects prior to deployment, debugging and troubleshooting issues, and providing regular maintenance and fixes for computer applications and systems. The qualifications you need for a career as a systems developer include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, the ability to write code in a variety of programming languages, problem-solving skills, and experience working in the information technology space.

How does a Systems Developer typically collaborate with other IT professionals in a project environment?

Systems Developers often work closely with other IT professionals such as software engineers, network administrators, and business analysts. Collaboration usually involves participating in project planning meetings, integrating their code with other system components, and troubleshooting issues as a team. Effective communication is vital, as Systems Developers must ensure their work aligns with broader technical requirements and organizational goals. They may also provide technical support and documentation to help other team members understand their contributions.

What are systems developers?

Systems developers are IT professionals who design, build, and maintain the underlying software and infrastructure that power computer systems and networks. Unlike application developers, systems developers focus on operating systems, network protocols, and system-level software that enables other applications to run efficiently. Their work is crucial for ensuring system reliability, security, and performance. They may also collaborate with hardware engineers to optimize the interaction between software and hardware components.

What does a systems developer do?

A systems developer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems and applications, often working with programming languages like Java, C++, or Python. They analyze user requirements, create technical specifications, and collaborate with other IT professionals to ensure system functionality and performance.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers or software architects, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses in addition to base salary.

Will AI replace developers in 2026?

Systems developers design, build, and maintain software systems, and while AI tools can automate certain coding tasks, they are unlikely to fully replace developers by 2026. Developers' skills in problem-solving, system architecture, and adapting to new technologies remain essential for complex and innovative projects.

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

To thrive as a Systems Developer, you need a strong background in computer science, programming languages such as Java, C++, or Python, and experience with systems architecture. Familiarity with development tools, version control systems (like Git), and knowledge of operating systems is typically expected, and certifications in relevant technologies can be beneficial. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help you collaborate and adapt to changing requirements. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining robust systems that meet organizational needs efficiently.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of a Systems Developer role, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of technical expertise and responsibility, with L1 being entry-level and L4 being senior or lead positions. These levels often correspond to experience, complexity of tasks handled, and leadership responsibilities, and they help organizations structure career progression and compensation. Skills such as programming, troubleshooting, and system design are expected to grow with each level.
More about Systems Developer jobs
People Systems Developer

People Systems Developer

Datadog

Boston, MA • On-site

$145K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Datadog's People Technology team is building the future of AI at work. We're looking for a People Systems Developer to design and deploy AI-native workflows that transform how we hire, develop, and support our employees. This is a high-impact hands-on builder role. You'll move beyond traditional HRIS configuration to prototype and productionize AI-enabled systems across talent acquisition, onboarding, performance, workforce planning, and internal service delivery. You'll operate with high autonomy, partner directly with stakeholders, and ship solutions that measurably improve how our People team works.
At Datadog, we place value in our office culture - the relationships and collaboration it builds and the creativity it brings to the table. We operate as a hybrid workplace to ensure our Datadogs can create a work-life harmony that best fits them.
What You'll Do
  • Design, build, test, and implement AI-enabled workflows and tools, moving from proofs of concept to full production and adoption based on user feedback.
  • Rapidly prototype using LLMs, APIs, and automation frameworks - and move validated ideas into secure, scalable production systems.
  • Integrate AI capabilities into our ecosystem (Workday, Greenhouse, Slack, Snowflake, Jira, Google Workspace, and more).
  • Partner directly with stakeholders like People Analytics, HRBPs, IT, Legal, and Security to ensure solutions are usable, compliant, and follow responsible AI practices.
  • Evaluate AI tools and vendors through hands-on experimentation.
  • Enable the broader People team to adopt AI effectively and responsibly.

Success in this role includes reducing manual People workflows by at least 20% through AI-enabled automation and intelligent system design.
At Datadog, we place value in our office culture - the relationships and collaboration it builds and the creativity it brings to the table. We operate as a hybrid workplace to ensure our Datadogs can create a work-life harmony that best fits them.
Who You Are
  • 3-5 years of experience in software engineering, systems engineering, or advanced automation.
  • Proven ability to build and integrate LLM-powered features or intelligent agents into production, utilizing leading Frontier models (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic, Gemini) and hands-on experience with coding agents/CLIs (e.g., Claude Code, Cursor).
  • Strong API integration and workflow automation experience, using tools such as n8n, Zapier, or Workato.
  • Familiarity with HR systems (Workday, Greenhouse, or similar) preferred.
  • Comfortable operating independently in a fast-moving, low-structure environment.
  • Able to translate complex technical systems into clear, practical solutions for business stakeholders.
  • Skilled at using qualitative data to guide decisions, measure effectiveness, and iterate.
  • Thoughtful about privacy, governance, and responsible AI practices - especially in sensitive HR contexts.

Bonus
  • Demonstrated ability to use AI coding tools in day-to-day workflows and validate, critique, and refine AI-generated output.
  • You're motivated to push the boundaries of how AI can improve software engineering best practices and contribute to building AI-enabled products.

Datadog values people from all walks of life. We understand not everyone will meet all the above qualifications on day one. That's okay. If you're passionate about technology and want to grow your skills, we encourage you to apply.
Benefits and Growth:
  • Generous and competitive global and US benefits
  • New hire stock equity (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan
  • 401(k) Plan and match
  • Flexible time off
  • Paid parental leave
  • Gym reimbursement
  • Continuous career development and pathing opportunities
  • Product training to develop an in-depth understanding of our product and space
  • Internal mentor and buddy program cross-departmentally
  • Friendly and inclusive workplace culture

Benefits and Growth listed above may vary based on the country of your employment and the nature of your employment with Datadog.
#LI-#LI-Hybrid
Datadog offers a competitive salary and equity package, and may include variable compensation. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, Datadog offers a wide range of best in class, comprehensive and inclusive employee benefits for this role including healthcare, dental, parental planning, and mental health benefits, a 401(k) plan and match, paid time off, fitness reimbursements, and a discounted employee stock purchase plan.
The reasonably estimated yearly salary for this role at Datadog is:
$145,000-$215,000 USD
About Datadog:
Datadog is the leading observability and security platform for the AI era, providing businesses with unified visibility across the technology stack to manage complexity at scale. It brings applications, infrastructure, data, models, and security into one place, using AI to detect and resolve issues before they impact customers. Trusted globally by Fortune 500 companies and high-growth AI leaders, Datadog enables businesses to move faster with clarity and confidence. Learn more about #DatadogLife on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Datadog Learning Center.
Equal Opportunity at Datadog:
Datadog is proud to offer equal employment opportunity to everyone regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, veteran status, and other characteristics protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. Here are our Candidate Legal Notices for your reference.
Datadog endeavors to make our Careers Page accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please complete this form. This form is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Privacy and AI Guidelines:
Any information you submit to Datadog as part of your application will be processed in accordance with Datadog's Applicant and Candidate Privacy Notice. For information on our AI policy, please visit Interviewing at Datadog AI Guidelines.