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Low Level Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

High Performance Low Level Programmer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147K - $272K/yr

Low level high performance programming experience is a must for this position. Being comfortable in vector assembly and low level C is a requirement. The ideal candidate would be at ease in ...

Wolverine

Low-Level C++ Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Low-Level C++ Software Engineer Department: Technology Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago ... Experience and aptitude in multi-threaded programming and performance tuning * Ability to analyze ...

Mannapov

Senior R&D Software Developer

Boerne, TX

$51.25 - $67.75/hr

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of low-level programming, strong technical skills, and a passion for innovation. Responsibilities: * Design, develop, and optimize software ...

Mannapov

Senior R&D Software Developer

Fair Oaks Ranch, TX

$50.25 - $66.25/hr

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of low-level programming, strong technical skills, and a passion for innovation. Responsibilities: * Design, develop, and optimize software ...

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How much do low level programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for low level programming in the United States is $110,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Low Level Programming vs Embedded Systems Developer?

AspectLow Level ProgrammingEmbedded Systems Developer
Required CredentialsKnowledge of C, C++, AssemblySame as Low Level Programming, plus microcontroller expertise
Work EnvironmentSoftware development on hardware-near systems, desktops, serversDesign and develop firmware for embedded devices
Industry UsageOperating systems, device drivers, hardware interfacesConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devices

Both roles require proficiency in low-level languages like C and Assembly. Low Level Programming focuses on system software and hardware interaction, while Embedded Systems Developers specialize in creating firmware for specific hardware devices. The main difference lies in the application context: general system development versus embedded device firmware.

What are some common challenges faced by low-level programmers when working with hardware and embedded systems?

Low-level programmers often face challenges such as debugging hardware-specific issues, managing memory manually, and dealing with limited computational resources. Collaborating closely with hardware engineers is essential to ensure software and hardware components integrate smoothly. Additionally, low-level programming requires deep knowledge of system architecture, which can be demanding but provides valuable opportunities for skill development and career advancement in areas like embedded systems and firmware engineering.

What can you do with low-level programming?

Low-level programming involves writing code that interacts directly with hardware, such as operating systems, device drivers, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. It requires knowledge of computer architecture, assembly language, and memory management, and is often used in systems programming, firmware development, and real-time applications.

Is 25 too late to start coding?

Low level programming is accessible at any age, and starting at 25 is common among many successful developers. Learning languages like C or Assembly and gaining experience through projects or certifications can lead to job opportunities regardless of age, as employers value skills and practical knowledge over age. Consistent practice and building a portfolio are key to entering the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Low Level Programmer, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Low Level Programmer, you need a strong understanding of computer architecture, memory management, and proficiency in languages like C or Assembly, often supported by a relevant computer science degree. Familiarity with debugging tools, version control systems like Git, and hardware interfacing is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and perseverance help you excel when working close to hardware or optimizing code. These skills are crucial for creating efficient, reliable software that interacts directly with hardware or operating systems.

What is low level programming?

Low level programming refers to writing software that interacts closely with computer hardware, often using languages like Assembly or C. These languages provide minimal abstraction from the machine's architecture, allowing programmers to control memory, CPU instructions, and hardware resources directly. Low level programming is commonly used in developing operating systems, device drivers, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. While it offers more control and efficiency, it requires a deep understanding of hardware and can be more complex and error-prone compared to high level programming.

What are low-level programmers?

Low-level programmers specialize in writing software that interacts directly with hardware, such as operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems. They typically work with languages like C or Assembly and require a strong understanding of computer architecture and memory management.

What is the 80 20 rule in programming?

In low level programming, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of the program's performance or issues are caused by 20% of the code. Focusing on optimizing or debugging that critical 20% can significantly improve efficiency and stability. This principle helps programmers prioritize tasks and resources effectively.
What cities are hiring for Low Level Programming jobs? Cities with the most Low Level Programming job openings:
High Performance Low Level Programmer

High Performance Low Level Programmer

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Are you a big-picture thinker who loves setting ambitious goals? Do you have a passion for understanding how each line of code affects all the others? In the Core Operating Systems group ensuring the OS is inseparable from each device's identity as a whole. That's because this group is committed to building fully integrated operating systems that combine hardware, software, and apps into a single Apple experience. Your dedication to cross-disciplinary collaboration will help develop groundbreaking technologies, such as iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. By crafting these distinct, holistic user experiences, you'll continue to uphold and advance the excellence people expect from Apple devices. ..The Vector and Numerics Group is tasked with designing, enhancing and improving various subsystems running on iOS, macOS, watchOs and tvOS. Most of this support is encapsulated in the Accelerate framework, a well used library serving many technologies.
The group is looking for an exceptional high performance programmer to complement the team and make a difference. As a member of our fast paced group, you will have the unique opportunity to delight and inspire millions of Apple's customers every day. You will work in a cross functional team which is implementing innovative and state of the art routines to support the necessary computation for such things as machine learning and vision algorithms. Push the state of the art in low level computation and drive them towards energy efficient and high performance implementations by tightly integrating software and hardware. The successful candidate will have excellent understanding and knowledge of micro architecture of NEON on ARM and AVX on Intel CPU cores from a vector programming perspective. Team members are engaged in the design and optimization of low level computational support for machine learning and computational vision such as 2D Multi-layered convolution, LSTM in hand writing recognition, FFT and DFT for audio codecs, speech synthesis and encryption to mention a few technologies. Understanding and working knowledge of cryptographic algorithms such as AES and SHA is a desirable attribute. Being able to craft the fastest and the most energy efficient routines for a particular CPU core is a plus. Low level high performance programming experience is a must for this position. Being comfortable in vector assembly and low level C is a requirement. The ideal candidate would be at ease in developing both innovative and robust CPU core level algorithms derived from a particular technology's need in a tight deadline .
5+ years low level algorithmic development in Machine Learning computation, LSTM, BLAS and DFT.Detailed knowledge of vector Instruction Set Architectures (ISA) of ARM and Intel.Strong understanding of computational efficiency.Excellent coding skills in ASM and C.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.Ability to manage multiple tasks and self-prioritize.Ability to work with cross functional teams in compression related components.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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