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System Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Nvidia

Software Engineer - DPU Platform

Westford, MA · On-site

Develop system software components such as processor firmware, boot-loaders, kernel drivers/modules ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent experience * 2+ years of experience ...

Textron

Systems & Software Engineer Manager

Wilmington, MA

$189K - $224K/yr

System architecture definition and integration with program requirements across all technical ... S.) in Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related Engineering discipline with a minimum ...

Winaxis

Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

Software Engineer responsibilities include gathering user requirements, defining system functionality and writing code in various languages, like Java, Ruby on Rails or .NET programming languages (e ...

STR

Senior Software Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site +1

$134K - $184K/yr

Experience in supporting system/software architecture design at the system and system of systems ... Object-Oriented Programming principles for large scale systems * Agile software lifecycle ...

ICONSTAFF

Senior Systems & Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

We are looking for a hands-on software engineer to work on embedded systems, robotics frameworks, and cutting-edge autonomy stacks. Responsibilties: * Develop C++ software for autonomous aerial and ...

STR

Senior Software Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site +1

$134K - $184K/yr

Experience in supporting system/software architecture design at the system and system of systems ... Object-Oriented Programming principles for large scale systems * Agile software lifecycle ...

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All JobsSystem Software Engineer JobsSystem Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

System Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$90.2K

$193.1K

$223.8K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Boston, MA is $193,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $187,900.00 and $222,700.00 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 Boston, MA? For System Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $193,074 per year, or $92.8 per hour.
Software Engineer - DPU Platform

Software Engineer - DPU Platform

Nvidia

Westford, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Nvidia rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

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. As an NVIDIAN, you'll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.

We offer an outstanding opportunity for a Software Engineer to join our innovative, world-class team. Are you interested in a highly impactful role that contributes to the development of technology powering the most sophisticated data centers worldwide? Using your expertise in embedded platforms, operating systems, and software distribution, you will work with an ambitious, international development team to solve challenges in delivering top-tier platforms.

What you'll be doing:

  • Develop system software components such as processor firmware, boot-loaders, kernel drivers/modules, and user space applications and libraries

  • Collaborate with hardware and product design teams to build software for sophisticated SOC platform designs

  • Support global teams with various customer and internal DPU projects

  • Address complex system-level optimization and resource utilization challenges

  • Engage in all levels of the product development lifecycle, prioritizing clear requirements, software quality, and performance

  • Work within a worldwide matrixed software development team, making a broad impact within our dynamic and technology-centric company

What we need to see:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering or equivalent experience

  • 2+ years of experience in developing software for embedded systems, with proficiency in C and Python

  • Strong desire to understand the system software stack, focusing on software/hardware interactions, including platform firmware, device drivers, Linux kernel, and user-space application performance

  • Knowledge of high-performance processor architecture, including CPU and cache coherency concepts, and hardware accelerators

  • Strong engineering skills, including technical investigation, building, testing, and agile software development processes

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

  • Familiarity with build environment tools such as gcc, git, github, make, bitbake, shell scripts, gerrit, and jenkins

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Experience with ARMv8 microarchitecture, ATF, and/or UEFI software is a strong plus

  • Familiarity with multiple Linux distributions, with the ability to compare and contrast them

  • Knowledge of secure boot flows and/or trusted computing environments

With competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, NVIDIA is widely regarded as one of the most desirable technology employers in the world. Our teams are composed of some of the most forwardthinking and driven engineers in the industry, and we continue to grow rapidly. If you are a senior data engineer passionate about building largescale, highimpact data platforms, we'd love to hear from you.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 116,000 USD - 189,750 USD for Level 2, and 140,000 USD - 224,250 USD for Level 3.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 6, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive 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

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

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