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System Software Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for system software engineer to architect, build and maintain system software that powers our current and next generation of system level test and ATE equipment. The ideal candidate ...

controls software engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$40.75 - $52/hr

The controls software engineer will be responsible for the development of control system software and its associated documentation and the Human Machine Interface to meet the requirements of the ...

Systems Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

They are seeking a Systems Software Engineer to design, implement, and optimize software systems for autonomous surface vessels, working closely with cross-functional teams to develop robust software ...

Systems Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

We are seeking a System Software Engineer to design, implement, and optimize software systems for our autonomous surface vessels. This role will involve working closely with cross-functional teams to ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 22, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $165,573 per year, or $79.6 per hour.
SoC Systems Software Engineer

SoC Systems Software Engineer

Apple

Austin, TX

$175K - $311K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 673 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Do you love crafting elegant solutions to highly complex challenges. Do you intrinsically see the importance in every detail. As part of our Silicon Technologies group, you'll help design and manufacture our next-generation, high-performance, power-efficient processor, system-on-chip (SoC). You'll ensure Apple products and services can seamlessly and expertly handle the tasks that make them beloved by millions. Joining this group means you'll be responsible for crafting and building the technology that fuels Apple's devices. Together, you and your team will enable our customers to do all the things they love with their devices.
Together, you and your team will enable our customers to do all the things they love with their devices. The team engages in multi-disciplinary effort to design, develop and maintain our current and next generation system level test and ATE platform solutions. As the number of SOC's keeps increasing, we are growing our team to meet the scope and complexities required to deliver outstanding SOC test platform solutions. We are looking for system software engineer to architect, build and maintain system software that powers our current and next generation of system level test and ATE equipment. The ideal candidate will have a strong mix of education and practical experience with a real passion for solving diverse engineering challenges. A successful candidate in this role will demonstrate deep knowledge in sophisticated software design and development. If you enjoy fast paced and challenging environment and collaborating with people across different functional areas as well as thriving during crisis times, we encourage you to apply!
Description
• Work cross-functionally with platform architecture, Silicon Validation, product engineering and other hardware/software teams within Apple and our vendors to develop and integrate best in class software and hardware.
• Design, develop, and maintain application and hardware abstraction layer software, drivers and test programs.
• Develop silicon characterization algorithms, diagnostics routines and performance measurement tools.
• Design and develop infrastructure to support automated testing of software solutions at scale.
Preferred Qualifications
At least 10 years of experience in systems software design and development.
Excellent programming (C /C++/ C#) and scripting skills (Python).
Proficiency with design, architecting and developing large, complex system software.
Ability to work under tight schedule and deliver on time.
Experience software development on windows/ Mac OS/ Linux OS.
Good understanding of network technologies, protocols.
Project management experience across teams and organizations.
Experience in owning, leading and driving large scale software solutions with cross functional stakeholders.
System Level Test equipment or Automated Test Equipment (ATE) experience is a plus.
SEMI standards knowledge is a plus.
Machine Learning, data analysis, data bases and SQL experience is a plus.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree + 10 Years of Experience
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $175,500 and $311,700, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Apple logo

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