1

Systems Programmer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

You will support the development of system engineering processes for the program, ensure consistent implementations across the program, and serve in a system integration capacity working with multi ...

Satellite Systems Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

This is a broad role, with responsibilities ranging from performance analysis, to systems engineering, to satellite integration and testing support. Qualifications * Must be a US person due to ITAR ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to other company locations as required) Department: Engineering Reports To: Head of Engineering About ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to other company locations as required) Department: Engineering Reports To: Head of Engineering About ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to other company locations as required) Department: Engineering Reports To: Head of Engineering About ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

Description Senior Systems Engineer Who We Are Kymeta revolutionizes satellite communications through Intelligent Communications Platforms (ICPs). Our electronically steered flat panel antennas ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$116K - $159K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for defining and architecting the technical foundation of a new endoscope program from the ground up. This role demands strong hardware systems instincts ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$116K - $159K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for defining and architecting the technical foundation of a new endoscope program from the ground up. This role demands strong hardware systems instincts ...

Showing results 41-60

Systems Programmer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$19

$56

$93

How much do systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems programmer in Seattle, WA is $56.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.06 and $70.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is system programming in demand?

System programming remains in demand due to the need for developing and maintaining operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems. Professionals with skills in languages like C and C++, along with knowledge of hardware interfaces, are sought after in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

What does a systems programmer do?

A systems programmer develops, maintains, and optimizes system software such as operating systems, device drivers, and utility programs. They work closely with hardware and software components, often using programming languages like C or Assembly, and may troubleshoot system issues or improve performance. Strong knowledge of computer architecture and debugging tools is essential for this role.

What job categories do people searching Systems Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Systems Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Systems Programmer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,752 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

$99K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role supports the development and operations of New Glenn, a single-configuration, heavy-lift orbital launch vehicle capable of routinely carrying people and payloads to low-Earth orbit, geostationary transfer orbit, cislunar, and beyond. Its first stage is fully reusable, and the vehicle was designed from the beginning to be human-capable.

You will work across subsystems and support integrated solutions to achieve our vision of "millions of people living and working in space" and apply system engineering practices across subject areas predicated to a high degree on your technical skills. You will support the development of system engineering processes for the program, ensure consistent implementations across the program, and serve in a system integration capacity working with multi-discipline teams to arrive at technical system solutions. You will support requirements definition, validation, and verification of requirements at all levels of the program using tools like DOORS Next Gen, system lifecycle configuration management tools, and other functional analysis toolsets.

Additionally, this role requires understanding and supporting requirements analysis and traceability, functional analysis, systems analysis, safety analysis, technical performance monitoring, verification planning and closure, and test plan development. You will ensure the alignment and consistent implementation of New Glenn system engineering practices from system to lower-level program tiers. You will also participate in gated reviews, develop health metrics to support insight into program health and tracking to major milestones.

Passion for our mission and vision is required! If you're passionate about providing near-term value, solving novel problems, learning about interesting topics, and completing challenging activities, please apply!

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a B.S. degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial engineering, or a similar technical field

  • 2+ years of experience with system engineering principles and processes throughout various phases of the design lifecycle

  • Familiarity with requirements management tools

  • Ability to interpret technical documentation and diagrams

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in Engineering disciplines, particularly mechanical, aerospace and materials

  • Knowledge of launch vehicle design and requirements

  • Experience with qualification of electro-mechanical hardware

  • System development/integration experience, preferably with aerospace hardware

  • Highly knowledgeable of systems engineering practices and their rightsizing for rapid development programs

  • Experience with verification planning, coordination of verification evidence, and development/delivery of verification closure notices.

  • Advanced experience with systems engineering tools such as DOORS Next Gen

  • Experience with project planning and implementation


Compensation Range for:

WA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


What Blue Origin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Blue Origin logo

About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000