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Kernel Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

About the Role As a TPU Kernel Engineer, you'll be responsible for identifying and addressing performance issues across many different ML systems, including research, training, and inference. A ...

The CoreOS Kernel team within Apple's CoreOS organization is looking for an exceptional OS kernel performance engineer to push the boundary of performance on Apple Silicon platforms - from iOS to ...

Linux kernel development experience with emphasis on the network stack and its interfaces is highly desirable e.g. * Programming experience at the sockets layer, protocol layer, device layer and ...

$129K - $225K/yr

Description As part of the CoreOS Kernel engineering team, you will work on the core layers of the operating systems. In this role you will analyze and optimize the OS performance on upcoming ...

Arista Networks is looking for world-class Linux Kernel and BIOS software engineers to join our Dublin Kernel software team. Our Kernel team is responsible for keeping pace with the latest ...

You will tackle the most complex kernel problems while mentoring and growing the engineers around you to deliver production-ready infrastructure at scale. What You'll Be Working On: * Perform deep ...

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How much do kernel programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for kernel programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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Infographic showing various Kernel Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA โ€ข On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.


Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring strong expertise in kernel-level development, Windows internals, and advanced debugging techniques to deliver high-performance, reliable solutions.Key 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
Required Qualifications
  • 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
Desired Skills (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
Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.


Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.


Nightwingoffers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.


Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.