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System Software Engineer Jobs in Los Angeles, CA

Sr Embedded Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Job title: Sr Embedded Software Engineer Location: Los Angeles, CA (5 days onsite) 6 months ... They should be a solid contributor and able to design, develop, code, test, and debug system ...

Systems Software Engineer III

Cypress, CA · On-site

$183K - $217K/yr

Participates and leads all end user/customer system training requirements on assigned projects. * Develops, trains and coaches junior level Design Engineers and Systems Software Engineers on ...

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System Software Engineer information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$89.4K

$191.5K

$222K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Los Angeles, CA is $191,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $186,400.00 and $220,900.00 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 are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA?

For System Software Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $191,494 per year, or $92.1 per hour.

Space System Software Engineer

Booz Allen Hamilton

El Segundo, CA

$86K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Space System Software Engineer

The Opportunity:

As an embedded software engineer, you can resolve a problem with a complete end-to-end solution in a fast, agile environment. If you're looking for the chance to not just develop software, but to help create a system that will make a difference, we need you on our team. We're looking for an engineer like you with the skills needed to develop software and systems from vision to production ready.

This role is more than just coding. As an embedded software engineer at Booz Allen, you'll use your passion to learn new tools and techniques and identify needed system improvements. You will lead a team of software engineers to help them develop professionally, review their work, and provide suggestions for improvement. You'll help our team and clients overcome their most difficult challenges using the latest architectural approaches, tools, and technologies. You'll help make sure the solution developed by the team considers the current architecture and operating environment, as well as future functionality and enhancements. Work with us as we shape systems for the better.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • 5+ years of experience with software engineering using Rust, C, or C++

  • Experience building and operating production-grade full-stack applications

  • Experience designing the architecture and containerized services with Kubernetes

  • Experience with AI-assisted software development tools and practices such as code copilots, automated tests, or secure-by-design patterns, to increase delivery velocity responsibly

  • Experience developing software within an Agile framework and DevSecOps infrastructure as part of a Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipeline

  • Knowledge of authentication, authorization, and security best practices

  • Ability to effectively communicate, work independently and collaboratively on a cross-functional team, and demonstrate initiative to complete complex tasks to achieve program goals in a fast-paced environment

  • Secret clearance

  • Bachelor's degree in CS or Engineeringand5+ years of experience in software development, or 7+ years of experience insoftware development in lieu ofa degree

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience withPyO3for Rust-Python interoperability and buildingPython extensions inRust

  • Experience with codequality andstaticanalysis toolssuch as SonarQube,Clippy, cargo-deny, or cargo-audit

  • Experience withsecurecodingpractices and vulnerabilityremediation

  • Knowledge of SystemsModeling Language(SysML), DoD Architecture Framework (DoDAF), and Unified Architecture Framework (UAF)

  • Ability to display apersonal or professional GitHub profiledemonstratingprojects

  • TS/SCI clearance

  • Master's degree

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.

Skills Assessment As part of Booz Allen's skills first hiring process, candidates must complete the required skills assessment to ensure they meet the Basic Qualifications for this role. Candidates must complete the assessment and meet the minimum proficiency threshold to continue in the hiring process.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $86,800.00 to $198,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914