1

System Software Engineer Rust Compiler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will design and build systems-level software that powers autonomous capabilities in challenging ... Rust services across the Altra platform * Collaborating with ML engineers to integrate AI/ML ...

You will design and build systems-level software that powers autonomous capabilities in challenging ... Rust services across the Altra platform * Collaborating with ML engineers to integrate AI/ML ...

The Role - Senior Software Engineer, Rust We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to build ... Design autonomous systems that scale efficiently and minimize manual intervention. * Create tools ...

The Role - Senior Software Engineer, Rust We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to build ... Design autonomous systems that scale efficiently and minimize manual intervention. * Create tools ...

$185K - $227K/yr

You'll be designing systems that run on constrained hardware with intermittent connectivity, where ... As a Senior Rust Engineer, you will own: * SDK Observability Pipeline - Design, build, and maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

System Software Engineer Rust Compiler information

See salary details

$83K

$177.7K

$206K

How much do system software engineer rust compiler jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer rust compiler 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 does a System Software Engineer working on the Rust Compiler do?

A System Software Engineer working on the Rust Compiler is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the core components of the Rust programming language's compiler. This includes implementing new language features, optimizing code generation, fixing bugs, and ensuring the compiler is reliable, efficient, and secure. They often collaborate with other engineers and the open-source community to advance the Rust ecosystem. Their work directly impacts the performance and capabilities of software built with Rust.

What is the difference between System Software Engineer Rust Compiler vs System Software Engineer C++ Compiler?

AspectSystem Software Engineer Rust CompilerSystem Software Engineer C++ Compiler
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, familiarity with RustBachelor's in Computer Science or related, proficiency in C++
Work EnvironmentDevelopment of compiler tools, open-source projects, tech companiesCompiler development, software firms, embedded systems
Industry UsageEmerging in systems programming, safety-critical applicationsEstablished in software development, gaming, embedded systems
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in compiler development roles, Rust-specific projectsSimilar roles focusing on C++ compiler development

Both roles involve developing and maintaining compiler software, but the main difference lies in the programming language focus: Rust versus C++. Rust compilers emphasize safety and concurrency, while C++ compilers are widely used in performance-critical applications. The choice depends on the specific industry needs and project requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by System Software Engineers working on the Rust compiler, and how can they be addressed?

System Software Engineers working on the Rust compiler often encounter challenges such as understanding complex codebases, ensuring high performance, and maintaining compatibility across platforms. Collaborating closely with the open-source community and other compiler engineers helps address these issues by enabling knowledge sharing and code reviews. Staying updated on language evolution and actively participating in discussions can also make it easier to navigate changes and contribute effectively. Adopting a habit of thorough testing and documentation is essential for maintaining stability and reliability in the compiler.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a System Software Engineer Rust Compiler, and why are they important?

To excel as a System Software Engineer Rust Compiler, you need advanced knowledge of systems programming, compiler theory, data structures, and deep proficiency in Rust, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), build tools, debugging utilities, and experience contributing to large open-source projects such as the Rust compiler are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and effective collaboration are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing reliable, performant compiler features and maintaining the robustness of complex codebases.
More about System Software Engineer Rust Compiler jobs
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer Rust Compiler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Locum Tenens, 7% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,719 per year, or $85.4 per hour.
Principal Software Engineering - Rust Systems Engineer

Principal Software Engineering - Rust Systems Engineer

Progress

Burlington, MA • Hybrid

$170K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

We are Progress (Nasdaq: PRGS) - the trusted provider of software that enables our customers to develop, deploy and manage responsible, AI-powered applications and experiences with agility and ease.  

We’re proud to have a diverse, global team where we value the individual and enrich our culture by considering varied perspectives because we believe people power progress. Join us as Principal Rust Software Engineer — Language Runtime and help us do what we do best: propelling business forward.  This will be a hybrid role so working between your home office and our Burlington, MA headquarters.

We are building a production language runtime in Rust — compiler, virtual machine, wire protocol client, and application server. You will join as a long-term technical owner of this system, working alongside experienced platform architects and a second FTE Rust engineer.

In this role, you will: 

Runtime & VM

  • Implement and optimize an async register-based virtual machine with cooperative scheduling and built-in function dispatch.
  • Translate language semantics from a reference C implementation into idiomatic, correct Rust.

Compiler

  • Extend a multi-stage compiler pipeline (lexer, parser, AST, IR, codegen).
  • Deliver new language features end-to-end with conformance and property-based tests.

Protocol & Data Layer

  • Extend a binary wire protocol implementation reverse-engineered from C source.
  • Own TLS, authentication, and connection pooling.

Async & Networking

  • Maintain a Tokio-based async runtime handling thousands of concurrent requests with shared state and admission control.
  • Contribute to HTTP, WebSocket, and gRPC server layers.

Engineering & Build

  • Manage a large multi-crate Cargo workspace — dependency hygiene, CI performance, and release engineering.

Team Enablement

  • Mentor senior engineers (20+ years platform experience) adopting Rust — teaching-oriented code reviews, pair programming, and progressive ownership handoff.
  • Document architecture decisions and maintain design docs as first-class deliverables.

Your background: 

  • Overall 10+ years of Software Engineering Experience
  • 5+ years production Rust in systems software (runtimes, compilers, databases, or networking).
  • Compiler or language runtime experience — at least one of: parser, AST/IR, bytecode compiler, VM, or interpreter.
  • Async Rust at scale — Tokio, shared-state concurrency, cancellation safety.
  • Large multi-crate workspace fluency.
  • Ability to read large C codebases and derive correct Rust implementations.
  • Mentorship mindset — patience, clear communication, progressive handoff.
  • Long-term ownership orientation — multi-year commitment.
  • Excellent written and verbal English.
  • CS degree or equivalent (data structures, algorithms, OS, compilers)

Additionally, it would be beneficial if you have:

  • VM design — opcode dispatch, cooperative scheduling, register allocation.
  • Binary protocol reverse-engineering and zero-copy parsing.
  • Property-based testing (proptest, quickcheck).
  • Concurrent data structures — DashMap, Moka, lock-free patterns.
  • Axum / Tower / WebSocket server experience.
  • Developer tooling protocols (LSP, DAP).
  • Observability — tracing, OpenTelemetry, Prometheus.
  • Database connectivity — pooling, transactions, schema resolution.
  • Experience onboarding engineering teams into Rust.
  • AI-assisted development tools (Copilot, Claude).

Base Salary Range: $170,000 - $189,000
This position is also eligible to participate in our performance-based annual corporate bonus plan. Final base compensation is determined by a number of factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, education, demonstrable experience, and allowance for future and continued salary growth. We also offer a robust benefits package, with details below.

If this sounds like you and fits your experience and career goals, we’d be happy to chat.   

What we offer in return is the opportunity to experience a great company culture with wonderful colleagues to learn from and collaborate with and also to enjoy:  

  • Medical, dental, vision, life & disability, and financial benefits (including 401(k) retirement savings plan. Tuition Reimbursement program. Additional voluntary benefits including crucial illness/hospital indemnity, identity theft protection, auto & home insurance, legal, and pet insurance. 
  • Competitive salary, bonus, and best-in-class Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP) with a 27-month lookback
  • Flexible paid vacation time, paid day off for your birthday, and company holidays. A variety of leave plans, including Parental Leave.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and an employee well-being program focusing on physical, mental, and financial health. 

Apply Now!

#LI-hybrid