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Systems Software Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Systems Software Developer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Our engineering teams operate at the intersection of CI systems, software architecture, data analytics, build engineering, and developer tooling - owning the systems and workflows that enable complex ...

Apple

Systems Software Developer

Sunnyvale, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

Our engineering teams operate at the intersection of CI systems, software architecture, data analytics, build engineering, and developer tooling - owning the systems and workflows that enable complex ...

Daikin

SYSTEMS SOFTWARE Developer 5

Denver, CO

$132K - $165K/yr

The Systems Software Developer 5 will serve as a technical leader and innovator in our organization. As a Principal Software Developer, you will involve shaping the architecture, driving technical ...

Apply Early

Daikin

SYSTEMS SOFTWARE Developer 5

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $165K/yr

The Systems Software Developer 5 will serve as a technical leader and innovator in our organization. As a Principal Software Developer, you will involve shaping the architecture, driving technical ...

Daikin

SYSTEMS SOFTWARE Developer 5

Denver, CO

$132K - $165K/yr

The Systems Software Developer 5 will serve as a technical leader and innovator in our organization. As a Principal Software Developer, you will involve shaping the architecture, driving technical ...

Apply Early

Acuity Brands

Systems Software Developer

Conyers, GA · On-site +1

Ongoing mentorship and technical guidance from experienced engineers and solution architects ... If you have difficulty using our online system due to a disability and need an accommodation, you ...

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Systems Software Developer information

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$40.5K

$117.1K

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How much do systems software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems software developer in the United States is $117,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Systems Software Developers?

Systems Software Developers are professionals who design, build, and maintain the foundational software that enables computers and devices to function. They work on operating systems, device drivers, and system utilities, ensuring that hardware and software work together efficiently. These developers often collaborate with hardware engineers and focus on performance, security, and reliability. Their work is critical for creating stable platforms upon which application software and user-facing programs run.

What is the difference between Systems Software Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectSystems Software DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; often certifications in systems or networkingBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or Software Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on low-level system software, operating systems, embedded systemsDevelops applications, web, mobile, or enterprise software across various environments
Industry UsagePrimarily in hardware, OS development, embedded systemsAcross tech, finance, healthcare, and more industries

Systems Software Developers specialize in creating and maintaining system-level software like operating systems and embedded systems, while Software Engineers develop a broader range of applications and software solutions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their focus areas and work environments differ significantly.

What does a system software developer do?

A system software developer designs, develops, and maintains system software such as operating systems, device drivers, and utility programs. They often work with programming languages like C or C++ and use development tools to optimize system performance and stability. Their role requires strong problem-solving skills and understanding of hardware-software interactions.

What are some common challenges Systems Software Developers face when working on large-scale projects?

Systems Software Developers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as maintaining compatibility across different hardware platforms, ensuring the software is optimized for performance, and managing complex dependencies between system components. Effective communication with cross-functional teams, such as hardware engineers and application developers, is critical to address integration issues. Additionally, keeping up with evolving technologies and adhering to strict security standards can add to the complexity of the role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior systems software developers, especially those with expertise in high-demand areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or AI, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often working in high-paying industries or companies, sometimes with additional bonuses or stock options.

Will AI replace developers in 2026?

Systems Software Developers will continue to play a crucial role in designing, coding, and maintaining software systems, even as AI tools automate certain tasks. While AI can assist with code generation and testing, human expertise is essential for complex problem-solving, system architecture, and ethical considerations. Developers who adapt by learning AI integration and advanced programming skills will remain valuable in the evolving tech landscape.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Systems Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Software Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or Rust, a solid understanding of computer architecture, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with operating systems internals, version control systems such as Git, and sometimes certifications in relevant technologies are common requirements. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These abilities ensure the development of reliable, efficient, and secure system-level software that supports critical computing infrastructure.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand areas like Silicon Valley or at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills in areas such as systems architecture or machine learning, and often involves leadership responsibilities or executive-level roles.
More about Systems Software Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Software Developer jobs? The most popular types of Systems Software Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Systems Software Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Systems Software Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Systems Software Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Systems Software Developer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Systems Software Developer jobs? For Systems Software Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Systems Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Software Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,074 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
Systems Software Developer

Systems Software Developer

Apple

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 666 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

At Apple, we tackle large-scale engineering challenges to deliver products that are intuitive, reliable, and built to last. Our engineering teams operate at the intersection of CI systems, software architecture, data analytics, build engineering, and developer tooling - owning the systems and workflows that enable complex, large-scale projects to move fast, scale, and ship with confidence.
Description
As a Systems Software Developer, you will work closely with cross-functional teams to understand the project goals and develop systematic solutions, workflows, and approaches to achieve those goals. This would include contributing to projects in low-level software and algorithms, building CI/CD pipelines and workflows, and developing infrastructure and tooling to help deliver innovative Apple technologies and products.
Minimum Qualifications
BS and a minimum of 3 years relevant industry experience
3+ years of experience designing, building, and maintaining production software systems and applications
Experience building or maintaining CI/CD pipelines and automated build or test workflows
Experience working with relational databases such as PostgreSQL in production environments
Preferred Qualifications
Experience developing large-scale internal APIs or developer-facing tooling
Proficiency in Python and shell scripting to build automation and workflow tooling
Experience with technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes
Experience with CI platforms such as Jenkins, Buildkite, or equivalent systems
Experience developing with Swift, Xcode, or other Apple platform technologies
Familiarity with software observability, metrics systems, or developer productivity analytics
Experience working across multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced, cross-functional engineering environment
Demonstrated ability to communicate technical concepts and project plans clearly across engineering and non-engineering stakeholders
Experience with Xcode and CMake are a bonus
Experience with computer vision, video processing, and/or machine learning data infrastructure is a bonus

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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