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System Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HP IQ

Senior System Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$162K - $288K/yr

Collaborate in the software engineering process with documentation, testing, and code review Essential Qualifications * 8+ years of experience in system software engineering and embedded platform

Nvidia

System Software Engineer - CUDA Chips

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$203K - $240K/yr

This role incorporates strong system software programming skills, a detailed understanding of operating systems and kernel programming, hardware architecture, as well as excellent communication and ...

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 ...

KLA Corporation

System Software Engineer (HPC)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... HPC system software engineering team, you will * Design and build software that runs large-scale deep learning or image processing workload on a cluster * Work with product team to ensure we're ...

Apple

Sr. System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$184K - $324K/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 ...

Kla

System Software Engineer (HPC)

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

... HPC system software engineering team, you will * Design and build software that runs large-scale deep learning or image processing workload on a cluster * Work with product team to ensure we're ...

KLA Corporation

System Software Engineer (HPC)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... HPC system software engineering team, you will * Design and build software that runs large-scale deep learning or image processing workload on a cluster * Work with product team to ensure we're ...

Orbotech

System Software Engineer (HPC)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... HPC system software engineering team, you will * Design and build software that runs large-scale deep learning or image processing workload on a cluster * Work with product team to ensure we're ...

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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 Jul 15, 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 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.
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System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $177,719 per year, or $85.4 per hour.
Principal System Software Engineer - AV Platform

Principal System Software Engineer - AV Platform

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days 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 is seeking a highly motivated Principal System Software Engineer to drive next-generation innovations in automotive platform software, system architecture, and performance engineering. In this highly visible technical leadership role, you will contribute directly to the architecture, development, optimization, and scaling of foundational software technologies powering NVIDIA automotive compute platforms.

You will work closely with hardware, architecture, kernel, AI, middleware, and platform teams to deliver high-performance, scalable, and safety-critical system software solutions. This role requires deep technical expertise, substantial proven hands-on engineering experience, and the ability to solve complex system-level challenges across the software stack.

What you'll be doing:

  • Drive system software architecture and technical direction for next-generation automotive compute platforms.

  • Lead performance optimization initiatives across CPU, GPU, memory, storage, networking, and platform subsystems.

  • Design, develop, debug, and optimize low-level system software including kernel, drivers, middleware, runtime frameworks, and platform services.

  • Collaborate closely with silicon, firmware, AI, and platform architecture teams to deliver optimized end-to-end solutions.

  • Analyze complex system bottlenecks and develop scalable solutions to improve performance, reliability, determinism, and efficiency.

  • Drive software bring-up, profiling, debugging, and performance tuning for new automotive platforms.

  • Contribute hands-on to critical software development, architecture reviews, debugging, and system optimization efforts.

  • Mentor engineers and help drive a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and execution.

What We Need to See:

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).

  • 15+ years of substantial hands-on experience in systems software, embedded systems, platform software, kernel development, or performance engineering.

  • Deep expertise in Linux system internals, kernel architecture, device drivers, and low-level system software development.

  • Strong programming skills in C/C++ with experience in Python or scripting languages.

  • Proven experience debugging and optimizing complex distributed or heterogeneous computing systems.

  • Strong background in performance analysis and optimization across CPU, GPU, memory, storage, and interconnect subsystems.

  • Experience with embedded Linux, RTOS, virtualization technologies, or multi-core system architectures.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead technically while remaining deeply hands-on in development, debugging, and architecture activities.

  • Experience collaborating across hardware and software organizations in highly matrixed environments.

  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and technical leadership skills.

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Experience with automotive software platforms, ADAS, or autonomous driving systems.

  • Familiarity with ISO 26262, AUTOSAR, ASPICE, or automotive cybersecurity frameworks.

  • Experience with GPU-accelerated computing and AI/ML software platforms.

  • Contributions to Linux kernel, open-source systems software, or performance tooling.

  • Experience building scalable software architectures for centralized vehicle compute platforms.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 272,000 USD - 431,250 USD.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until May 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

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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