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System Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Sr. System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

We are seeking a versatile Sr. Software System Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of ...

Nvidia

Senior System Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

We are looking for a hard-working and experienced system software engineer to join our team and work on innovative datacenter interconnects. You will be responsible for designing and implementing ...

Nvidia

Senior System Software Engineer

Westford, MA · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

We are looking for a hard-working and experienced system software engineer to join our team and work on innovative datacenter interconnects. You will be responsible for designing and implementing ...

Apple

Sr. System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$181K - $318K/yr

We are seeking a versatile Sr. Software System Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of ...

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System Software Engineer information

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$83K

$177.7K

$206K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in the United States is $177,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior system software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or AI, and often working in high-demand industries or at large tech companies can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or executive-level roles.

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 development environments to optimize performance and stability.

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 human expertise is essential for designing, implementing, and managing complex systems and adapting to new challenges.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand fields like cloud computing, AI, or at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

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.
More about System Software Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs? For System Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,719 per year, or $85.4 per hour.
Sr. System Software Engineer

Sr. System Software Engineer

Apple

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 662 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Join a team of passionate and creative engineers dedicated to building technologies that will shape the future. We are a cross-functional group that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and tackling challenging problems to create products that are both profoundly useful and delightful to use. Our work lies at the intersection of groundbreaking hardware, software, and design, and we are looking for a key contributor to help us explore what's possible...We are seeking a versatile Sr. Software System Engineer with end-to-end expertise to accelerate the exploration of new concepts. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of complex concepts, from initial hardware design and sensor integration to software development and the application of machine learning. You are a builder at heart, someone who can seamlessly navigate the stack from low-level firmware to high-level applications to bring innovative ideas to life.
As a Sr. Software Systems Engineer, you will be a critical member of a multi-disciplinary team, responsible for rapidly prototyping and validating novel concepts. Your work will directly influence future product direction by demonstrating the viability and potential of new technologies.
Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.5+ years of hands-on experience designing, building, and deploying robotic systems that encompass both hardware and software components.Experience programming in C++ and/or Python for robotics applications.
Proven experience in system integration, bringing together complex hardware (sensors, actuators) and software (firmware, control, perception) into a functional whole.Experience with a variety of sensor modalities (e.g., cameras, LiDAR, IMUs, depth sensors) and developing perception algorithms for object detection, tracking, or localization.Strong understanding of electromechanical systems, motor control theory, and implementation of real-time control systems.Proficiency with embedded systems development, including firmware, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and low-level device drivers.Experience applying machine learning (ML) techniques to robotics problems such as perception, sensor fusion, or adaptive control.Experience in rapid prototyping and building user interfaces or interaction models for human-robot interaction (HCI).Master's or PhD in Robotics, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.

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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

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