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Systems Programmer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Role Summary Overland AI is hiring a Systems Engineer to support engineering execution and grow into core systems engineering responsibilities within the Systems, Safety, and Test (SST) organization.

Systems Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$155K - $205K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Systems Engineer to join our team in Redmond, WA. We build and optimize the infrastructure that powers generalized robotics foundation models - spanning edge ...

The Systems Engineer is a full-time position that performs systems engineering, product commissioning, documentation production, and integration support on a breadth of projects across broadcast ...

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Systems Engineer / Hybrid - Des Moines, Washington Our Company We're more than just a workplace -- we're a community of people who care about doing meaningful work, supporting each other, and growing ...

Systems Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$120K - $207K/yr

The Systems Engineer participates in the system design aspects of magniX's electric propulsion systems, including system processes, system definition, requirements collection, flow down, and ...

Systems Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$64 - $74/hr

Job#: 3033640 Systems Engineer - Systems Engineer III Location: Redmond, Washington (Onsite) Employment Type: Contract Role Overview The Build Reliability Engineer (BRE) will ensure complex Optical ...

Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) organization is seeking a Systems Engineer 3 (Mid-level) to focus on system architecture, requirements, and ...

Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) organization is seeking a Systems Engineer 3 (Mid-level) to focus on system architecture, requirements, and ...

Systems Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$119K - $162K/yr

Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) organization is seeking a Systems Engineer 3 (Mid-level) to focus on system architecture, requirements, and ...

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How much do systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems programmer in Seattle, WA is $56.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.06 and $70.87 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.

Does systems programming pay well?

Systems programmers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in low-level programming, operating systems, and hardware interaction. Compensation varies by experience, location, and industry, but generally, it is above average compared to many other IT roles. Certifications and proficiency with tools like C, C++, and Linux can also influence earning potential.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Systems Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Systems Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Systems Analyst/Programmer IV

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington.
With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has earned a reputation as one of the world's leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world's deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.
At Fred Hutch we value collaboration, compassion, determination, excellence, innovation, integrity and respect. Our mission is directly tied to the humanity, dignity and inherent value of each employee, patient, community member and supporter. Our commitment to learning across our differences and similarities make us stronger. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems.
As part of the Fred Hutch LabIT team, the Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) Analyst will develop, improve and maintain clinical laboratory information systems, including Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS), and supporting systems associated with the Fred Hutch clinical labs. The LIMS Analyst will participate in development, modification and troubleshooting of existing and new software and/or hardware to achieve optimum performance and maximum benefit of the clinical application(s) and their associated database(s). The LIMS Analyst will interact regularly with clinic and department staff for requirements gathering, training, clinical system support, and will act as a liaison between clinic staff, the IT Service Desk Team, and application vendors when necessary.
This position is full-time, salaried.
Responsibilities
  • Design and implementation of LIMS configurations and applications to meet user specifications, individually or as a member of a team.
  • Gather and document user requirements for current and/or future LIMS and other clinical applications.
  • Develop new functionality and expand existing functionality in LIMS as required by evolving business requirements.
  • Assist LIMS management team in developing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures, user guides, and other relevant documentation.
  • Develop, deploy and maintain software and hardware solutions for the specialty laboratories at Fred Hutch.
  • Analyze department needs and recommend appropriate software and hardware solutions to IT management.
  • Perform and/or assist with hardware and/or software installations.
  • Provide hardware and software support for clinical lab information systems, including LIMS and supporting systems, located at Fred Hutch.

Provided support includes:
    • First call response
    • Initial investigation
    • End user assistance
    • Escalation to vendor or other resources as appropriate
    • Design and implementation of a solution
    • Broker systems access
    • Prioritization of issues
    • Communication to user
  • Maintain records of computer and/or application problems, reporting routinely to lab and IT management; provide follow-up information on a regular basis.
  • Prepare for and monitor stability of clinical lab applications during system updates.
  • Act as a liaison between clinic staff, the IT Service Desk Team, and application vendors to facilitate timely and efficient resolution of clinical lab system issues.
  • Coordinate with staff from Fred Hutch's three partner institutions (FHCRC, CHRMC, and UW) as needed. Attend and participate in shared technological resource meetings as needed.
  • Maintain knowledge of and adhere to current Fred Hutch and Lab IT change control and validation procedures to meet regulatory agency requirements.
  • Collaborate with IT and QA departments to facilitate validation activities; develop and/or execute test scripts as required.
  • Assist with the initial and continuing education of all clinic staff in the efficient utilization of LIMS.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Programming experience, LIMS Basic preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree in computer or laboratory science, or related field.
  • Proficient working with customers and project stakeholders developing requirements and documenting workflows.
  • Must be able to rapidly either resolve, or ensure that others resolve, problems that interfere with or disable LIMS or other clinical information systems.
  • Proficient in computer systems troubleshooting.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in schedules and assignments in order to meet the needs of the department (i.e. may include overtime, flexing, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays and on-call).
  • Must be able to work independently and as part of a team as the situation requires.
  • Must have excellent customer relations, communications, and time management skills.
  • Works well with team members toward a common purpose; reinforces the efforts and goals of the work group; supports the team's decisions regardless of individual viewpoint.
  • Must be able to prioritize work assignments and adjust tasks as needed.
  • Must understand potentially hazardous working conditions. (e.g., radiation, chemicals from film processing, biohazardous waste, electromagnetic fields), and work effectively to minimize the risks.

Preferred:
  • Experience configuring and supporting a LIMS. LabWare LIMS
  • Must be able to demonstrate competency with LIMS and clinical lab information systems.
  • Database experience (SQL Server).
  • Experience with reporting tools, Crystal Reports preferred.
  • Seeks feedback from clinic staff, customers and team members in order to identify and improve processes and outcomes.
  • Clinical lab experience desirable.
  • Familiarity with HIPAA.
  • Experience working in a CLIA regulated environment.
  • Experience working in a FDA regulated environment and familiar with 21 CFR part 11
  • Familiar with CAP

The annual base salary range for this position is from $104,458.00 to $165,089.00, and pay offered will be based on experience and qualifications.
Although Fred Hutch is not sponsoring most H-1B visas at this time, candidates who already hold an H-1B sponsored by another organization and are currently in the U.S. may be eligible for this position.
Most Fred Hutch jobs require some on-campus work. However, there may be flexibility for certain positions. Please check with your recruiter if you are an out-of-state applicant interested in working outside of teh Seattle area.
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center offers employees a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance health, well-being, and financial security. Benefits include medical/vision, dental, flexible spending accounts, life, disability, retirement, family life support, employee assistance program, onsite health clinic, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation (12-22 days per year), paid sick leave (12-25 days per year), paid holidays (13 days per year), paid parental leave (up to 4 weeks).
Additional Information
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Human Resources at hrops@fredhutch.org or by calling 206-667-4700.