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System Software Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

System Software Engineer (Kernal) Description - The Systems Software Engineer (Kernel) is tasked with developing advanced solutions for HP's commercial PC portfolio. This role encompasses leadership ...

System Software Engineer (Kernel) Description - The Systems Software Engineer (Kernel) is tasked with developing advanced solutions for HP's commercial PC portfolio. This role encompasses leadership ...

Camera System Software Engineer Description - HP Poly is seeking aCamera System Software Engineerto take part in cutting edge video endpoint development. In this role, you will be responsible for ...

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System Software Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$77.3K

$165.6K

$191.9K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Texas is $165,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $161,200.00 and $191,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for System Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most System Software Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in TX?

For System Software Engineer jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $165,573 per year, or $79.6 per hour.

System Software Engineer (Kernal)

Socket.dev

Houston, TX • On-site

$131 - $205/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

System Software Engineer (Kernal)

Description -

The Systems Software Engineer (Kernel) is tasked with developing advanced solutions for HP's commercial PC portfolio. This role encompasses leadership in the design, development, and optimization of Windows and Linux drivers as well as other software products. The engineer proactively identifies and resolves software issues, ensuring delivery of effective solutions within established timelines.

Beyond technical problem-solving, the position requires the preparation and upkeep of comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, detailed code annotations, and user guides to facilitate development and deployment activities. Additionally, the engineer remains informed about emerging technologies and industry trends pertinent to solution development, ensuring that all deliverables are both current and competitive.


Responsibilities

  • Oversees the development and preparation of comprehensive instructional technical manuscripts related to driver operations.
  • Allocates resources and develops detailed programming project plans to ensure deliverables are completed to specification.
  • Leads multiple project teams comprising software engineers and both internal and external development partners, managing all phases of design and development for advanced products and platforms.
  • Manages and strengthens relationships with internal and external development partners in software design and development.
  • Reviews and assesses designs and project activities to ensure compliance with systems guidelines and standards, providing actionable feedback to enhance product quality and reduce risk.
  • Offers domain-specific expertise and strategic leadership across organizational projects, programs, and initiatives.
  • Collaborates with hardware and firmware engineers to facilitate effective integration and communication between hardware and firmware components.
  • Defines and documents communication protocols, system states, and feature requirements in conjunction with firmware and software teams.
  • Champions innovation by integrating new technologies into organizational projects and workflows.
  • Mentors junior software engineers, guiding them toward successful project outcomes.


Education & Experience Recommended

  • Bachelor Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 7–10 years of work experience, preferably in Windows/Linux Driver development.


Preferred Certifications

Software Engineering

  • Deep understanding and experience with both user and kernel more device drivers
  • Low footprint Peer2Peer decentralized systems development including security; experience with novel architectures desired.
  • Control systems design
  • Fault tolerant and high availability systems design
  • CI/CD pipeline expertise

Connectivity and Interoperability

  • Security development (cryptography, protocols, onboarding techniques)
  • Wireless protocol stack development (multiple wireless protocols preferred)
  • Interconnectivity protocols expertise
  • Hardware Driver development expertise (well versed in details of the published specification to help drive new design approaches)


Knowledge & Skills

  • Proficient in C; familiar with Python, batch files, and command shells, and other relevant scripting languages.
  • Source control experience (Github)
  • Bare metal systems and bootloader architecture knowledge
  • Skilled in embedded firmware debugging (JTAG, SWD)
  • Experienced with UART, I2C, SPI protocols
  • Use of logic analyzers, I2C analyzers, oscilloscopes, and similar tools
  • RTOS concepts and multi-threaded firmware development
  • Basic analog/digital electronics knowledge; able to read HW schematics
  • Capable of interpreting specifications and data sheets to develop firmware solutions

The pay range for this role is$130,700to$205,200USD annually with additional opportunities for pay in the form of bonus and/or equity (applies to United States of America candidates only). Pay varies by work location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Benefits:
HP offers a comprehensive benefits package for this position, including:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Long term/short term disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Generous time off policies, including;
  • 4-12 weeks fully paid parental leave based on tenure
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Additional flexible paid vacation and sick leave (US benefits overview)

The compensation and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.

Job -

Software

Schedule -

Full time

Shift -

No shift premium (United States of America)

Travel -

Relocation -

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) -

HP, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and prospective employees, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran, marital status, familial status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, uniformed service status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by applicable national, federal, state, and local law(s).

Please be assured that you will not be subject to any adverse treatment if you choose to disclose the information requested. This information is provided voluntarily. The information obtained will be kept in strict confidence.

For more information, review HP’s EEO Policy or read about your rights as an applicant under the law here: "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal"

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