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Systems Software Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Systems Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

... programming languages such as C, C++, Assembly. * Experience working in DAL A software development. Experience with Code Review * Experience with software development tools, version control systems ...

Systems Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$164K - $194K/yr

... programming languages such as C, C++, Assembly. * Experience working in DAL A software development. Experience with Code Review * Experience with software development tools, version control systems ...

System Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Assembly. * Experience working in DAL A ... Experience with software development tools, version control systems, and continuous integration ...

System Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Assembly. * Experience working in DAL A ... Experience with software development tools, version control systems, and continuous integration ...

System Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$123K - $156K/yr

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel's innovative ...

System Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$135K - $181K/yr

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel's innovative ...

System Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$123K - $156K/yr

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel's innovative ...

Join Intel as a System Software Engineer, where you will play a pivotal role in designing ... systems, middleware, frameworks, algorithms, and applications that enable Intel's innovative ...

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Showing results 1-20

Systems Software Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$82.4K

$176.5K

$204.5K

How much do systems software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems software engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $176,459.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $171,800.00 and $203,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a systems software engineer typically collaborate with hardware engineers and other technical teams?

Systems Software Engineers often work closely with hardware engineers to ensure that software integrates seamlessly with physical components. This collaboration may involve participating in cross-functional meetings, debugging issues at the hardware-software interface, and jointly optimizing system performance. Additionally, they coordinate with quality assurance and product teams to align on requirements, test plans, and release schedules. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as resolving complex, system-level challenges often requires input from multiple technical disciplines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a systems software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C, C++, or Rust), a deep understanding of operating systems, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Git, build systems (e.g., Make, CMake), kernel development environments, and sometimes relevant certifications (such as Linux Foundation Certified Engineer) is typical. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that help you excel in complex, collaborative projects. These skills and qualities are crucial to designing robust, efficient system-level software that meets performance, reliability, and security standards.

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

AspectSystems Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing system-level software, operating systems, and firmwareCreating applications, websites, and user-facing software
Required SkillsLow-level programming (C, C++), OS concepts, hardware interactionHigh-level programming (Java, Python, JavaScript), UI/UX design
Work EnvironmentOften in hardware or OS teams, embedded systems, or infrastructureApplication development teams, web or mobile app projects
CertificationsTypically none required, but Linux or OS certifications can helpOften certifications like Java, AWS, or specific language certifications

While both roles involve software development, Systems Software Engineers focus on system-level and hardware-interfacing software, whereas Software Developers create user-facing applications. The roles overlap in programming skills but differ in scope and environment.

What is a systems software engineer?

Systems Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain the underlying software that enables computer hardware and application software to function effectively. They work on operating systems, device drivers, embedded systems, and other foundational platforms, ensuring system stability, security, and performance. Their role often involves low-level programming, optimizing system resources, and collaborating with hardware engineers to create seamless integration between software and hardware components.
More about Systems Software Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Systems Software Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,459 per year, or $84.8 per hour.

Systems Software Engineer

Purple Hires Inc

Phoenix, AZ โ€ข On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

JD:

  • Strong knowledge of RF design and SW integration. Experience with leading teams and well organized, DO 254 (exposure only), DO-178C, DO160G (EMI)
  • Experience with SW Requirements Development
  • Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Assembly.
  • Experience working in DAL A software development. Experience with Code Review
  • Experience with software development tools, version control systems, and continuous integration/deployment pipelines.
  • Understanding of software development best practices, design patterns, and architecture principles.
  • Experience with various application areas supporting Avionics functions, Navigation and Airborne Surveillance (TCAS, Transponder, ADS-B, DME, UAT).
  • Ability to manage project risks and implement mitigation strategies effectively.
  • Experience in preparing Planning Documentation & Cert Doc
  • Experience working with Defense Customers preferred
  • Flight test experience (wiring diagrams for aircraft vs inputs from diff systems to know what planes can do and modified for test), engineering tools (montpa, x-scribe, managing and developing other tools to help), jira, bitbucket, understand how build works/compiler settings
  • Systems Documentation development and systems testing. Maintaining labs hardware/builds are loaded/configuration, checking calibration dates on equipment, lab experience
  • Formation positioning system experience.systems engineer with a hardware focus. system test/hardware test experience. test equipment knowledge. certification process understanding
  • Requirements, planning documents, verification testing, coordination with customers/customer process compliance, leadership skills, self driven/motivated + continuous learning mindset, audits, troubleshooting, experience working with ISC/quality/shipping and receiving, electronics knowledge, lab/test experience
  • Customer and FAA interface, understanding of safety, aircraft interface/installation
  • SSA, FHA,  SRTM, other sys docs, TSO deviations, Frequency Approval effort, system integration,MOPS