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System Software Engineer Jobs in Boulder, CO (NOW HIRING)

KBR, Inc.

Ground Systems Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$137K - $188K/yr

Key areas of focus include ground system full life cycle software procurement from requirements ... Review developer's readiness to proceed into factory and site test and evaluation. The candidate ...

KBR

Ground Systems Software Engineer

Denver, CO

$137K - $188K/yr

Key areas of focus include ground system full life cycle software procurement from requirements ... Review developer's readiness to proceed into factory and site test and evaluation. The candidate ...

CesiumAstro

Senior Flight Software Engineer II

Westminster, CO · On-site

$124K - $164K/yr

CesiumAstro is a pioneering company in communication systems for satellites and airborne platforms. They are seeking a Senior Flight Software Engineer II to develop and test satellite flight software ...

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO

$140K - $188K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that ... This role develops and maintains systems that ensure product quality, reliability, and ...

Raytheon

Senior Software Developer (Onsite)

Aurora, CO · On-site

$55.25 - $73/hr

This role involves designing, developing, deploying, and maintaining reusable ground system ... software. • Work with a team of engineers, architects, and leaders in an Agile environment.

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO

$140K - $188K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that ... This role develops and maintains systems that ensure product quality, reliability, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSystem Software Engineer JobsSystem Software Engineer Jobs in Boulder, CO

System Software Engineer information

See Boulder, CO salary details

$86.1K

$184.3K

$213.6K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Boulder, CO is $184,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $179,400.00 and $212,600.00 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 Boulder, CO? For System Software Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO look for? The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO are:
What cities near Boulder, CO are hiring for System Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Boulder, CO with the most System Software Engineer job openings:
System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Boulder, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $184,313 per year, or $88.6 per hour.
System Software Engineer II

System Software Engineer II

Autonomous Solutions

Longmont, CO • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

At Autonomous Solutions Inc (ASI), we are revolutionizing industries with state-of-the-art autonomous robotics solutions. We deliver technologies that enhance safety, productivity, and efficiency. With our core values of Simplicity, Safety, Transparency, Humility, Attention to Detail, Autonomy and Growth guiding everything we do, we're shaping the future of automation in dynamic markets.

As a System Software Engineer II on the Commercial Landscaping Team, you will bridge the gap between firmware and higher-level robot software. You will maintain the operating system and foundational software that every other system on the robot depends on and write the lower-level abstractions that make the rest of the codebase possible. You will work closely with firmware engineers on CAN-connected microcontrollers, perception engineers processing camera data in real time, and applications engineers streaming telemetry to the cloud. Most of the codebase is Rust, with some C++ and Python. You will be required to regularly spend time on-bot verifying your own changes.

Requirements

  • Maintain and evolve the robot's operating system (Ubuntu and Yocto) and system-level tools.

  • Write and maintain software in Rust, Python, and C++ across the stack.

  • Bridge firmware and higher-level software, translating between the two layers.

  • Build tools that improve fleet observability, stability, and performance at scale.

  • Verify changes directly on-bot and assist other engineering teams in the field.

  • Debug complex, multi-threaded issues across firmware, perception, and application layers.

  • Collaborate daily with firmware, perception, and applications engineers on shared systems.

  • Learn new tools and technologies as the robot platform and fleet grow.


Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience writing production code in at least one compiled language: Rust, C++, Go, Java, or C.

  • Has built and maintained large, complex software systems over time.

  • Has operated and maintained a complex Linux system in a production environment.

  • Can debug large, multi-threaded, multi-disciplinary software systems.

  • Comfortable engaging with unfamiliar systems to triage and solve deeply technical problems.

  • Willing to spend hands-on time verifying changes directly on real hardware.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to remain in a stationary position for significant portions of the workday, including computer-based tasks and meetings.

  • Ability to communicate and exchange information clearly and effectively with team members and collaborators.

  • Capacity to analyze complex technical problems and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.

  • Ability to move around a lab, shop, or field environment to verify software changes directly on the robot.

At Autonomous Solutions Inc, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all employees and applicants have equal opportunities. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic. Autonomous Solutions Inc complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding nondiscrimination in employment and is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro