Hello Abir,

An operating system (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and system resources and provides the tools that applications need to operate, which means it provides a way for the user to interact with the applications of the computer. It is not a front-end software which directly interacts with the user. In fact, OS developers are better known as System developers who are similar to Software developers, except they develop and implement applications and programs for the backend processing system. These systems are the behind-the-scenes parts inside a computer that don’t have a user interface, except for administration purposes.

But generally, the requirements of a systems developer largely mirror that of a software developer.

Educational qualification:

• Minimum a bachelor's degree related to computer science/technical-based/software development discipline. Typically, you need to major in computer science, software engineering or a related field, such as mathematics.
• Sometimes even graduates from different backgrounds unrelated to computer science directly can get recruited for the job if they show the right aptitude in software development.
• Strong programming skills.

Key skills:

• Mathematical and strong problem-solving
• Time management
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• An understanding of the latest trends and their general effects
• Self-development skills to keep up to date with fast-changing trends
• Teamwork, because no one project is an individual project.

Now, basic skills are covered. But what exactly makes a person stand out as a developer? The extensive knowledge and application skills of the programming languages. There are many languages out there and most of them are for front-end applications that directly interact with the user. OS is not like that and so they need special languages that could support the functions of a back-end system. Hence, to get started as a system developer, you must be expert in the following languages:

• C
• Assembly

Why not other languages like JAVA and C++ you may ask, and it is because:

Dear aspirant

For you to be an operating system developer, the most important thing is to know the programming languages such as Java and C++ etc and to get into systems development you usually need a degree related to computer science or software development; however, a few graduate employers now take on graduates from different subject backgrounds if they show the right aptitude.

Key skills for system developer:

• Mathematical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills
• Programming languages such as C# and Java
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• An understanding of the latest trends and their effect on a commercial environment
• Teamwork skills, because most projects require input from individuals in different roles