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Low Level Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Entry Software Engineer

White Salmon, WA · On-site

Software Engineer This entry-level Software Engineer role focuses on testing and developing ... Experience or coursework in embedded systems, firmware, or low-level software projects. * Comfort ...

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How much do low level software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for low level software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Low Level Software Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, computer architecture, and operating system fundamentals, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Experience with debugging tools, embedded systems, version control systems like Git, and knowledge of hardware interfaces are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective problem-solving are vital soft skills that set top engineers apart. These skills are crucial for developing efficient, reliable, and secure software that interacts closely with hardware and underpins critical system functionality.

What are Low Level Software Engineers?

Low Level Software Engineers are professionals who specialize in programming close to the hardware, often working with firmware, device drivers, operating systems, and embedded systems. They use languages like C, C++, or assembly to interact directly with hardware components, optimizing performance and ensuring efficient resource management. Their work is essential for enabling communication between software applications and physical devices. These engineers are crucial in industries such as automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, and telecommunications.

What are some common challenges faced by Low Level Software Engineers in their daily work?

Low Level Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as debugging complex hardware-software interactions, optimizing code for performance and memory constraints, and ensuring compatibility across various hardware platforms. They work closely with hardware engineers and embedded systems teams, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, staying updated on evolving hardware architectures and toolchains is essential for successful development and maintenance of low-level systems.
What states have the most Low Level Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Low Level Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Low Level Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Software Engineer - Windows Internals - Fully Remote

Westlight AI

Palo Alto, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
At Westlight, we build products that help companies and governments to provide an extra layer of security for their infrastructure. We work with the internals of different operating systems to provide a framework that brings a completely new level of security and control.
We are looking for a Windows software engineer who has enough autonomy to lead the implementation of features related to kernel-mode drivers and integrate those features with other I/O subsystems. The ideal candidate will have prior experience writing Windows security software, e.g. anti-malware scanners or other low-level software.
This position offers significant opportunities for career development. Westlight's core team comprises of Stanford and MIT PhDs with expertise in AI, cybersecurity, CI/CD, and large-scale software systems. In this position, one will have opportunities to expand into these areas based on interest and expertise developed while working at Westlight.
Westlight is a fully remote company and this position can be held anywhere in the US. Since we work closely with the US Air Force, we require all applicants to be US Citizens and located in the US.
What we are looking for
  • Strong skills in Windows / C# desktop development
  • Comprehensive understanding of C and low-level memory management
  • Advanced use of debugging tools, e.g. WinDbg, KD, CDB, NTSD
  • Prior experience with Windows security software development, e.g. anti-malware scanners
  • Intermediate knowledge on networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, UDP, and common application protocols, e.g. HTTP, SSH, etc.)
  • Basic knowledge on Public-key cryptography fundamentals
    • Beginner knowledge on elliptic curve cryptography is a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills and someone who thrives in a cooperative team environment
Technologies
  • Operating Systems: Windows 10 and Server
  • Programming languages: C#, C++, and C
    • Knowledge of Ruby on Rails and AWS also will be helpful
  • CI/CD Tools: Gitlab CI

Responsibilities
As a Software Engineer, you will work on Westlight product development:
  • Develop Westlight Windows kernel-level software
  • Integrate kernel-level software with other subsystems, such as I/O
  • Work together with the company leadership to define the Westlight Windows experience

Apply