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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Cylake Inc.

Windows System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Windows Kernel Engineering * Design and develop production-quality Windows kernel drivers using WDM ... WDF. * Build kernel instrumentation and telemetry pipelines for endpoint visibility. * Develop high ...

Zealot Labs, Inc.

... kernel-mode and user-mode drivers. * + Research attack surfaces across WDDM display drivers ... engineering and exploit development skills. * + Proficiency with WinDbg, IDA/Ghidra, and driver ...

REDLattice

Windows CNO Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

REDLattice

Windows CNO Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

REDLattice, Inc.

Windows CNO Developer

Virginia, MN · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

REDLattice, Inc.

Windows CNO Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

REDLattice

Windows CNO Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

REDLattice

Windows CNO Developer

Virginia, MN · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Reverse engineer Windows binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to ...

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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer information

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How much do entry level windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level windows kernel developer in the United States is $100,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Windows kernel developer?

Entry level Windows Kernel Developers are software engineers who specialize in developing, maintaining, and debugging the core part of the Windows operating system, known as the kernel. At the entry level, they typically assist in writing and testing low-level code that interacts closely with hardware, handles memory management, and manages system resources. They often work under the guidance of senior developers and may contribute to device drivers, system utilities, and security features. A strong background in C/C++ programming and a solid understanding of operating system concepts are typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Windows kernel developer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer, you need a solid background in computer science fundamentals, C/C++ programming, and operating system concepts, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Windows kernel internals, debugging tools like WinDbg, and version control systems such as Git is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills are essential to develop stable and secure low-level software that interacts closely with the Windows operating system.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level Windows kernel developers, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level Windows Kernel Developers often face challenges such as understanding complex system internals, debugging low-level code, and ensuring system stability and security when making changes. New hires can overcome these hurdles by immersing themselves in official Microsoft documentation, actively participating in code reviews, and seeking mentorship from experienced team members. Collaborating closely with QA and security teams is also vital to ensure robust and secure kernel modules.
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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,265 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA • On-site

Nightwing
See more jobs at Nightwingexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Nightwing is a company that provides advanced cyber, data operations, and intelligence mission support services. They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, test, and debug kernel-level software for the Windows operating system
• Develop low-level system components and interfaces using Windows APIs
• Perform kernel-level diagnostics, troubleshooting, and performance analysis
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate and validate system components
• Ensure software reliability, security, and maintainability through rigorous testing and debugging practices
Qualifications:
Required:
• Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software using C, C++, and Python
• Minimum of three (3) years of in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging Windows-based software using Visual Studio IDE and the Windows SDK
• Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Windows low-level systems development and Windows APIs
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and testing Windows kernel-level software
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience performing Windows kernel-level debugging and diagnostics using tools such as Windows DDK, WinDBG, or equivalent
Preferred:
• Strong understanding of operating system architecture and device drivers
• Experience with system performance optimization and root-cause analysis
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, technically complex environment
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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