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System Software Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Software Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

We are seeking a Software Engineer with experience in Dataplane development, System Software/Embedded software, Cloud Computing, and Networking to join our team. This role will allow you to influence ...

Latent AI

Software Engineer, Starlink Network

Redmond, WA · On-site

$122.50 - $170/hr

Measurement system software and hardware, supporting our in-house RF Silicon designs. Our software engineers are responsible for the complete lifecycle of the software they create, including ...

Amazon

Software Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

We are seeking a Software Engineer with experience in Dataplane development, System Software/Embedded software, Cloud Computing, and Networking to join our team. This role will allow you to influence ...

Meta

Software Engineer, Databases

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$183K/yr

Meta is seeking a Software Engineer specializing in systems software to drive technical direction across large-scale infrastructure and platform engineering. In this role, you will architect and ...

Leidos

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

This is hands-on engineering for real platforms operating in unforgiving environments in support of ... Translate high-level system intent into executable software , breaking down complex autonomy and ...

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All JobsSystem Software Engineer JobsSystem Software Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

System Software Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$94.5K

$202.2K

$234.4K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Seattle, WA is $202,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $196,900.00 and $233,300.00 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $202,249 per year, or $97.2 per hour.

Senior System Software Engineer, Vulkan Performance

Nvidia

Seattle, WA • On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

As a Vulkan Performance driver engineer, you will have a hand in everything from the game engine down to bare metal. You will be part of a team whose mission it is to achieve the best possible performance, power-efficiency, and latency for the latest games and creative applications. You'll work with some of the brightest minds in the field of computer graphics and high-performance processor design.

What you will be doing: Diagnosing GPU and CPU performance bottlenecks in Vulkan and Proton titles. Identifying changes to API usage to improve performance and communicating via appropriate channels with third-party developers. Implementing driver performance improvements and resolving driver defects.

Collaborating with engineers on the team and across NVIDIA. Developing a driver that leads the industry in quality and performance. What we need to see: Hold a B.S

or higher degree in Computer Science/Engineering or similar field or equivalent experience 5+ years of experience (or equivalent) in graphics software, system programming, or related field. An understanding of graphics fundamentals, experience with operating systems and a solid understanding of computer architecture is required Comfortable with Vulkan, OpenGL or DirectX Strong programming skills in C and C++, familiarity with assembly code Experience in developing highly optimized code Ways to stand out from the crowd: Strong interest and background in 3D graphics Working experience inside operating system kernels and device drivers Ability to think creatively to debug and solve complex, hard to reproduce problems A strong standout colleague; self-motivated with strong interpersonal skills Ability and flexibility to work and communicate effectively in a multinational, multi-time zone corporate environment With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and talented people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our elite engineering teams are rapidly growing.

If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want 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 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits. Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 31, 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

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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

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