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Distributed Systems Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer - Distributed Systems

$177K - $209K/yr

About the Role We are looking for a distributed systems engineer to work on the systems that power the syncing engine our customers and other engineering teams rely on. This presents an exciting ...

Systems Software Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$183K - $217K/yr

The Product Integrity group is looking for a Systems Software Engineer to develop future products ... debugging distributed applications Experience debugging at all levels of an operating system ...

VDURA is a leader in high-performance parallel file systems and distributed storage solutions for AI and HPC environments. We are seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to join our engineering team ...

Meta is seeking a Software Systems Engineer to join our Production Systems Engineering organization ... Experience designing and operating distributed systems software at scale, including monitoring ...

Meta is seeking a Software Systems Engineer to join our Production Systems Engineering organization ... Experience designing and operating distributed systems software at scale, including monitoring ...

VDURA is a leader in high-performance parallel file systems and distributed storage solutions for AI and HPC environments. We are seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to join our engineering team ...

Meta is seeking a Software Systems Engineer to join our Production Systems Engineering organization ... Experience designing and operating distributed systems software at scale, including monitoring ...

VDURA is a leader in high-performance parallel file systems and distributed storage solutions for AI and HPC environments. We are seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to join our engineering team ...

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Distributed Systems Software Engineer information

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$83K

$177.7K

$206K

How much do distributed systems software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for distributed systems software engineer in the United States is $177,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Distributed Systems Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like Java, Go, or C++), a deep understanding of algorithms, networking, and distributed computing concepts, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools and frameworks such as Kubernetes, Apache Kafka, Docker, and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure) is highly valued, as are certifications in cloud or devops technologies. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you design scalable solutions and collaborate across teams. These skills are crucial for building reliable, efficient, and scalable distributed systems that power modern applications and services.

What is the difference between Distributed Systems Software Engineer vs Cloud Software Engineer?

AspectDistributed Systems Software EngineerCloud Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related, experience with distributed architecturesBachelor's in CS, experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
Work EnvironmentDevelops scalable distributed applications, often in data centers or on-premisesBuilds and maintains cloud-based solutions, deploying on cloud platforms
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, data centers, distributed computing firmsCloud service providers, SaaS companies, enterprises adopting cloud
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in distributed architectureComparing cloud-focused development roles

While both roles involve building scalable software, a Distributed Systems Software Engineer focuses on designing and implementing distributed architectures, whereas a Cloud Software Engineer specializes in deploying and managing applications on cloud platforms. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their environment and specific technical focus.

What are the typical challenges faced by Distributed Systems Software Engineers when ensuring system reliability?

Distributed Systems Software Engineers often encounter challenges like handling network partitioning, ensuring data consistency across nodes, and effectively managing system failures. They need to design resilient architectures that can recover gracefully when components fail, and implement robust monitoring to detect issues early. Collaborating closely with DevOps, QA, and other engineering teams is crucial to address these challenges and maintain high availability and performance in complex, distributed environments.

What are Distributed Systems Software Engineers?

Distributed Systems Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that runs across multiple computers or servers, working together to achieve a common goal. They build systems that are reliable, scalable, and efficient, often handling large volumes of data and user requests. Their work involves solving challenges related to network communication, data consistency, fault tolerance, and system coordination. These engineers frequently use technologies like cloud computing platforms, message queues, and databases to ensure smooth operation across distributed environments.
More about Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Distributed Systems Software Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Systems Software Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Distributed Systems Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,719 per year, or $85.4 per hour.
Staff Software Engineer - Distributed Systems Architect

Staff Software Engineer - Distributed Systems Architect

vmware

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Write code in Java and scripting in Python to manage and enable robust, scalable, high-volume applications.

  • Lead and contribute significantly to engineering projects spanning multiple groups and team members.

  • Mentor engineers into the core development processes.


Job description

Company Description
VMware is the industry-leading virtualization software company. Our technologies simplify IT complexity and streamline operations, helping businesses become more agile, efficient and profitable. By virtualizing infrastructure-from the data center to the cloud to mobile devices-we enable IT to deliver services from any device, anytime, anywhere. - See more at: http://www.vmware.com/in/company/#sthash.2nzmlvUu.dpuf
Job Description
VMware is looking for a Staff Software Engineer to join VMware's NSX team. NSX is a key component of VMware's software defined datacenter (SDDC) and allows our customers to build, host and deploy applications in their cloud.
You will lead the next generation of networking applications using your expertise in distributed systems, software technologies and open source tools to solve difficult customer use cases and delight them in the process. You will be part of a bright engineering team that has open communication, innovation, empowerment and a customer success culture. You will collaborate with cross functional teams on innovative projects, with the authority and scope to apply your expertise in a fast-paced and technically driven environment.
We are interested in engineers who love building robust and scalable systems, We're looking for ideas and skills from every area of computer science, including distributed systems, large-scale system design, networking and security. We hire engineers who can tackle hard problems in new areas and help define new markets.
Responsibilities
Write code in Java (and scripting in Python) to manage and enable robust, scalable, high-volume applications. Lead and contribute significantly to engineering projects spanning multiple groups and team members. Ensure standards and procedures are being adhered to. Mentor engineers into the core development processes. Perform other duties and responsibilities as requested or required.
VMware NSX is a network virtualization platform that delivers the operational model of a virtual machine for the network. Virtual networks reproduce the network model in software, allowing complex multi-tier network topologies to be created and provisioned programmatically in seconds. NSX includes a library of logical networking services - logical switches, logical routers, logical firewalls, logical load balancers, logical VPN, QoS, and distributed security.
A self-service interface allows users to create custom combinations of these services in isolated software-based virtual networks that support existing applications without modification or deliver unique requirements for new application workloads. Similar to virtual machines in compute, virtual networks are programmatically provisioned and managed independent of networking hardware. Decoupling from hardware introduces agility, speed and operational efficiency that has transformed data center economics.
Qualifications
BS in Computer Science/related technical field or equivalent practical experience. 5+ years of general software programming experience in Java or C++, Python with some knowledge of TCP/IP and network programming. Knowledge of Linux (Preferred) and development of large scale applications - web infrastructure, distributed systems, database replication, high availability etc. Ability to technically lead engineering teams to deliver projects. (Preferred) MS/PhD in Computer Science (Preferred) Solid foundation in data structures, algorithms and software design with strong analytical and debugging skills. (Preferred) Good understanding of distributed systems, virtualization, networking and security constructs and open source software. (Preferred) Technical paper publications and conference engagements.
Additional Information
EEO Statement
VMware is an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action for all applicants and employees. Equal opportunity and consideration are afforded to all qualified applicants and employees in personnel actions, which include: recruiting and hiring, selection for training, promotion, rates of pay or other compensation, transfer, discipline, demotion, layoff or termination. VMware does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, family medical history or genetic information, citizenship, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, military status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation. VMware also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled employees consistent with applicable law. Further, it is the policy of VMware to maintain a working environment free of all forms of harassment.

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About VMware

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

VMware envisions software as a force that can create opportunities for individuals and the world. We continuously seek innovative solutions to overcome challenges and seamlessly integrate technologies. Through our cloud, mobility, and security software, we provide a reliable digital foundation for delivering transformative business experiences worldwide. Our values of execution, passion, integrity, customer focus, and community drive our actions and accomplishments.

Industry

Software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Palo Alto, CA, US

Year founded

2013

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