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Systems Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_HYBRID ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Hampton, VA

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: No Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC ...

VTG

Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · On-site

Overview VTG is seeking a Systems Engineer , located in Springfield, VA. What will you do? Senior-level Systems Integrators support the Government by leading and overseeing the integrity of the NSG ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: No Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC ...

TRIAEM, LLC

Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site +1

Systems Engineer (Mid-Level) - Must have an active TS/SCI Overall Assignment Description: Mid-level Systems Engineers employ a multi-discipline approach to requirements engineering, solutions ...

TRIAEM, LLC

Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site +1

Systems Engineer (Mid-Level) - Must have an active TS/SCI Overall Assignment Description: Mid-level Systems Engineers employ a multi-discipline approach to requirements engineering, solutions ...

VTG

Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · On-site

Expert-level Systems Engineers assist in leading engineering teams in taking a multi-discipline approach to requirements engineering, solutions engineering, scheduling, reliability, resiliency ...

KBR

Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

GRVTY

Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

What Impact You'll Have Join GRVTY's mission-focused team as a Systems Engineer, where you'll play a critical role in shaping and delivering mission systems for national security customers. You'll ...

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$49

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How much do systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems programmer in Virginia is $49.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.77 and $61.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by systems programmers, and how can they overcome them?

Systems programmers often face challenges such as debugging low-level code, ensuring compatibility across different hardware or operating systems, and addressing performance bottlenecks. These tasks require a deep understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages like C or Assembly. Collaborating closely with other IT professionals, such as network administrators and application developers, can help identify and resolve issues more efficiently. Staying current with industry developments and using robust version control and debugging tools are also essential strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What Is a Systems Programmer?

A systems programmer is a skilled computer technician that develops application software with a variety of programming languages. In this career, you must have experience working with a variety of operating systems including Windows, Linux, and mainframe. Your job duties include developing application programs, testing the functionality of the software, and troubleshooting issues found by users. You also work on a variety of computer hardware such as servers and mainframes, so your skills must extend beyond software and coding. You can find systems programmer positions with third-party IT companies and in the IT departments of larger companies.

What is the difference between Systems Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystems ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, with knowledge of low-level programmingUsually holds a degree in computer science, software engineering, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with operating systems, hardware, and system utilities in enterprise or technical settingsDevelops applications and software solutions for various platforms, often in business or consumer environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT departments, tech companies, and organizations managing complex systemsWidely employed across tech firms, startups, and any industry requiring software solutions

While both roles involve programming, Systems Programmers focus on low-level system software and hardware interaction, whereas Software Developers create applications and user-facing software. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are systems programmers?

Systems programmers are specialized software developers who design, develop, test, and maintain the low-level software that enables computer hardware and software to work together effectively. They often work on operating systems, firmware, device drivers, and other system-level components. Their main focus is on optimizing system performance, ensuring reliability, and enabling hardware-software interoperability. Systems programmers typically have strong knowledge of computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages like C or assembly.

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

To thrive as a Systems Programmer, you need expertise in low-level programming languages (such as C or Assembly), operating system concepts, and a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with mainframe or server environments, system debugging tools, and certifications in relevant platforms (like IBM z/OS or Linux) are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing system performance, maintaining reliability, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components.
More about Systems Programmer jobs
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Systems Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Systems Programmer job openings:
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Systems Programmer jobs near you
Systems Engineer - Senior

Systems Engineer - Senior

iNovex Information Systems

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$108K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Brief
System Engineering
Job Description
RealmOne was built on the principle that people matter first and foremost. We believe in providing a strong work/life balance by investing in our employees and encouraging professional and personal growth. We do this by offering exceptional benefits, flexible schedules, and the tools necessary to achieve success through paid training, mentoring, and the opportunity to work alongside top-notch industry professionals. We are looking for skilled individuals to provide technical expertise in support of a government client.
We are seeking an experienced Sr. Systems Engineer to join our technology-based program supporting a key government customer. As a System Engineer, you will play a critical role in analyzing system requirements and supporting design development activities.
The Sr. System Engineer shall possess the following capabilities:
  • Will analyze user requirements, concept of operations documents, and high-level system architectures to develop system requirements specifications.
  • 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.
  • Develop technical documentation, 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.

Qualifications:
  • 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. Four (4) years of additional SE experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.
  • Fifteen (15) years' experience as a SE on programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required.

Position requires active Security Clearance with appropriate Polygraph
Pay Range: Competitive
The RealmOne pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Our approach to crafting offers considers various factors to establish an equitable and competitive compensation package. These considerations include, but are not limited to, the extent and intricacy of the role's responsibilities, the candidate's educational background, their work experience, and the specific competencies crucial for success in the role.
RealmOne Benefits:
  • Healthcare Coverage + Insurance: Medical: Three (3) rich healthcare options through CareFirst with 100% or majority company-paid premiums. Tax-advantaged health savings account available with generous employer contribution. Dental + Vision: 100% employer-paid for employees and family with buy-up option available.
  • Retirement + Savings: 401K - 10% TOTAL CONTRIBUTION - 5% safe harbor - 5% annual profit share. Immediate vested, no match required!
  • Paid Time Off + More: 4 weeks starting PTO - 11 federal holidays + 2 floating holidays - Paid hours for company-required training.
  • Career Growth + Development: Access to FREE 24/7 learning via Udemy - Opportunities to participate in tech councils, industry initiatives, etc. - $7,500 annual Educational & Professional Development Assistance.
  • MORE BENEFITS...FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE! - Paid parental leave - Adoption assistance - Annual swag drops - Flexible work schedules - -Generous referral bonus program - Employee appreciation + family-friendly corporate events ...and much more.

ABOUT US
  • RealmOne is a mid-sized science and technology company dedicated to solving our customers' toughest mission challenges.
  • Headquartered in Columbia, MD., RealmOne supplies advanced cybersecurity, data science and software engineering services and products to customers in the Government and commercial sectors.
  • RealmOne delivers encompassing mission assurance and critical systems support to government customers across various U.S. locations to include Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.
  • RealmOne has earned numerous awards, including being named a Top Workplace by the Baltimore Sun. With more than 30+ active contracts, 12 of which are prime, RealmOne stands as a premier innovator supporting the Government and Department of Defense, with team members located nationwide.

Disclaimer: Benefits packages offered by RealmOne are subject to variation and may differ based on work location, clearance level, and other eligibility criteria. Specific eligibility, availability, and scope of benefits are not guaranteed, may differ from those generally described, and remain subject to modification at the sole discretion of the company.

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