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System Software Engineer Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Tegra System Software Engineer

Durham, NC

$167K - $198K/yr

NVIDIA is searching for a creative and highly motivated engineer with expertise in system software to join the Tegra system-on-chip (SOC) Software organization. You will design key aspects of our ...

Software Engineer

Asheville, NC · On-site

$64K - $70K/yr

Working knowledge of version control systems, such as Git. * Hands-on experience with data flow and ... Software Engineering or a related field. Desired Certification(s): * Agile Certification, such as ...

Software Engineer

Asheville, NC · On-site

$64K - $70K/yr

Working knowledge of version control systems, such as Git. * Hands-on experience with data flow and ... Software Engineering or a related field. Desired Certification(s): * Agile Certification, such as ...

Software Engineer

Asheville, NC · Hybrid

$64K - $70K/yr

Working knowledge of version control systems, such as Git. * Hands-on experience with data flow and ... Software Engineering or a related field. Desired Certification(s): * Agile Certification, such as ...

Software Engineer About CoVar CoVar is a small, mission-driven AI/ML R&D software company based in ... We build advanced software and machine learning systems that help the Department of Defense detect ...

Software Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$68 - $73/hr

Senior Software Engineer - Agentic AI & Intelligent Automation We are not accepting C2C or 1099 ... As a key member of an agile engineering team, you will develop systems that can interpret ...

Software Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$68 - $73/hr

Support migration of legacy systems to cloud-based infrastructure * Write clean, maintainable, and ... software engineering or equivalent practical experience * 5-7 years of experience with Java ...

... Software Engineer to join our Technology team. This position is responsible for designing ... Whether you're developing new applications, modernizing legacy systems, or leveraging AI-assisted ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Software Engineer information

See North Carolina salary details

$75.4K

$161.5K

$187.2K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in North Carolina is $161,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $157,200.00 and $186,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries like finance or tech, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What does a systems engineer do in software?

A systems engineer in software designs, develops, and maintains complex software systems, ensuring they function efficiently and reliably. They often work with system architecture, integration, and troubleshooting, using tools like scripting languages and version control. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of operating systems and networking are essential for this role.

What does a System Software Engineer do?

A System Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains the core software that enables computer hardware and system applications to function. This includes operating systems, device drivers, firmware, and other low-level software that interacts closely with hardware components. Their work ensures that systems run efficiently, securely, and reliably. They often collaborate with hardware engineers and application developers to optimize performance and troubleshoot complex technical issues.

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

To thrive as a System Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or Rust, a deep understanding of operating systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with low-level debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and kernel development environments is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, high-performance system software that underpins critical applications and infrastructure.

Will AI replace system engineers?

System software engineers design, develop, and maintain complex systems and rely on skills such as programming, troubleshooting, and system analysis. While AI can automate certain tasks like monitoring and routine maintenance, it is unlikely to fully replace system engineers, as their expertise is needed for system design, problem-solving, and adapting to new technologies. AI tools serve as assistants to enhance efficiency rather than replace the role entirely.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand areas like technology or finance, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills in programming and system design, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant growth potential.

What is the difference between System Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystem Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; often some experience with systems programmingBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; focus on application development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining operating systems, firmware, or system-level applicationsCreating user-facing applications, websites, or mobile apps
Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, embedded systemsSoftware firms, startups, enterprise applications
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to system-level programmingLooking for application or web development roles

System Software Engineers focus on developing and maintaining system-level software like operating systems and firmware, requiring knowledge of hardware and low-level programming. Software Developers typically create applications and user-facing software, emphasizing higher-level programming skills. Both roles often share similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work focus and environment.

What are some common challenges System Software Engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

System Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as maintaining system stability while integrating new features, ensuring compatibility across diverse hardware platforms, and optimizing performance under heavy workloads. Coordinating with cross-functional teams, such as hardware engineers and application developers, is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, they must stay updated with evolving technologies and adhere to rigorous testing and debugging practices to prevent system failures.
What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in NC? For System Software Engineer jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in North Carolina as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,511 per year, or $77.6 per hour.

Tegra System Software Engineer

Nvidia

Durham, NC

$167K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 246 rated software companies


Job description

NVIDIA is searching for a creative and highly motivated engineer with expertise in system software to join the Tegra system-on-chip (SOC) Software organization. You will design key aspects of our Tegra SoC kernel drivers and embedded Software. This role will focus on enabling ARM SoC on pre-silicon and silicon platforms. Join us to build a world class System software team.


What you'll be doing:

  • Design, develop and verify features for our next generation SoC architecture, collaborating with hardware engineers and fellow software engineers.

  • Heavily involved with the early modeling simulation required to produce our outstanding products.

  • Working closely with the hardware, silicon, pre-silicon teams to bring-up new platforms, products, and prototype systems.

  • Involved in SoC bringup with a focus on enabling the core OS software on new platforms.

  • Get to craft, develop, unit test, document and maintain features for Tegra SoCs.

  • You will influence hardware architecture and system software by creating architecture and design specification.


What we need to see:

  • BS or MS degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related degree or equivalent experience

  • 5+ years of relevant software development experience

  • Proven leadership skills and strong ownership on past projects

  • Hands on technical experience and demonstrated excellence in an environment with complex software and hardware designs

  • Outstanding C programming and low-level driver experience; background and strength with complex system-level debugging

  • Experienced with ARM based processor architecture

  • Familiarity with computer system architecture, microprocessor, and microcontroller fundamentals (caches, buses, memory controllers, DMA, etc.)


Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Background with Chip or Board bring-up

  • Experience developing high quality embedded code

  • Experience with JTAG and other debugging tools

We are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers, and as a result have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us. So, if you're clever, creative, and driven, we'd love to have you join the team.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until April 10, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993