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Windows Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fortinet

Senior Windows Software Developer

Sunnyvale, CA

$150K - $183K/yr

As a Senior Windows Software Developer, you will: * Be proficient in C/C++ with a strong understanding of object-oriented programming. * Have extensive experience in network programming and a solid ...

Fortinet

Senior Windows Software Developer

Sunnyvale, CA

$150K - $183K/yr

As a Senior Windows Software Developer, you will: * Be proficient in C/C++ with a strong understanding of object-oriented programming. * Have extensive experience in network programming and a solid ...

OSI Digital

Active Directory / Windows Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$56.50 - $74/hr

Active Directory / Windows Engineer Location: Irvine CA Hybrid Duration: Contract Technical Expertise * 10+ years in enterprise messaging and directory services (Microsoft-focused). * Proven ...

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$59.7K

$133.2K

$220.6K

How much do windows developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows developer in California is $133,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,600.00 and $157,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 100k as a software developer?

Windows developers with experience in high-demand skills, such as C#, .NET, and cloud integration, can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially in regions with a strong tech industry. Salary levels depend on factors like location, years of experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What is a Windows Developer job?

A Windows Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining applications for the Windows operating system. They work with programming languages like C#, C++, and .NET to build desktop or UWP (Universal Windows Platform) applications. Their role includes debugging, optimizing performance, and ensuring compatibility across different Windows versions. Windows Developers may also integrate software with cloud services and databases, depending on project requirements.

How difficult is it to get hired at Microsoft?

Getting hired as a Windows Developer at Microsoft can be competitive, often requiring strong technical skills in programming languages like C++ or C#, experience with Windows OS development, and a solid portfolio or project work. Candidates typically go through multiple interview rounds assessing coding ability, problem-solving, and cultural fit, with some roles also requiring relevant certifications or experience with tools like Visual Studio.

What is a Windows developer?

A Windows developer is a software programmer who specializes in creating applications and tools for the Windows operating system using languages like C#, C++, or Visual Basic. They often work with development environments such as Visual Studio and may focus on desktop, UWP, or enterprise applications, requiring knowledge of Windows APIs and frameworks.

What type of developer is most in demand?

For a Windows Developer, skills in C#, .NET framework, and experience with Windows APIs are highly sought after. Developers proficient in desktop application development, automation, and integration with Microsoft technologies are in high demand across industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Windows Developer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Windows Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as C#, .NET, and C++, along with a solid understanding of Windows operating system architecture. Familiarity with development tools like Visual Studio, Windows APIs, and version control systems such as Git is typically expected, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Developer Associate can be advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality, maintainable software solutions while enabling effective collaboration within development teams.

What are common challenges faced by Windows Developers and how can they be addressed?

Windows Developers often encounter challenges such as managing compatibility across different Windows versions, optimizing application performance, and debugging complex issues within the operating system environment. Staying up-to-date with frequent updates to the Windows platform and adhering to best practices for security and user interface design are essential. Collaboration with QA testers, UX/UI designers, and IT support teams helps in identifying and resolving issues more efficiently. Proactively participating in code reviews and leveraging available documentation and community resources can greatly assist in overcoming these challenges.

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Windows Developer jobs near you
Windows Driver Validation Engineer

Windows Driver Validation Engineer

Sustainable Talent

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$50 - $80/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Location: Santa Clara, CA (Onsite)
Role Type: contract (W2)
Sustainable Talent is partnering with NVIDIA, a global leader in accelerated computing and graphics, to hire a Windows Validation Engineer to support hands-on system and GPU validation efforts.
This role is focused on Windows PC system-level testing and troubleshooting, with an emphasis on GPU validation, system setup, and debugging. This is not an application or web QA role - it requires hands-on experience working at the OS, driver, and hardware level. We offer competitive compensation, $50 - $80/hr based on experience with full benefits.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Set up and configure Windows-based PC systems for validation (OS install, driver installation, firmware updates)
  • Perform system-level and GPU validation on Windows platforms (primarily GeForce / consumer GPU environments)
  • Execute validation across different system configurations, drivers, and builds
  • Troubleshoot system issues and determine root cause (setup, driver, OS, or hardware)
  • Analyze system crashes (e.g., BSOD), logs, and memory dumps to identify issues
  • Use debugging tools such as WinDbg to investigate system-level problems
  • Work closely with engineering teams to reproduce issues and support resolution
  • Perform hands-on hardware work, including assembling systems, swapping components, and replacing GPUs/boards
  • Ensure systems are properly configured and stable before and during validation
What We're Looking For
  • Hands-on experience with Windows PC system-level testing and validation
  • Experience working with GPUs in a Windows environment (GeForce or similar preferred)
  • Strong troubleshooting skills across OS, drivers, and hardware configurations
  • Experience installing Windows OS from scratch, including drivers and firmware updates
  • Hands-on experience working with PC hardware (system builds, GPU replacement, board swaps)
  • Experience using WinDbg or similar tools for debugging system-level issues (crash analysis, memory dumps, etc.)
  • Ability to isolate issues and determine whether they are related to setup, driver, OS, or hardware
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally with engineering teams
Nice to Have
  • Experience with Python or scripting to support testing or debugging
  • Experience with structured validation or lab environments
  • Prior experience working with GPU validation or graphics drivers

Sustainable Talent is a M/F+, disabled, and veteran equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.

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