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Windows Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Esri

C++ Windows Developer II - ArcGIS Pro

Redlands, CA · On-site

$49.25 - $66.50/hr

Esri is a leading company in geographic information system (GIS) software, and they are seeking a C++ Windows Developer II to join their software development team. The role involves developing ...

Qualcomm

Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K/yr

As a Windows Performance Developer, you'll be owning and driving analysis of complex system level performance aspects and coming up with solutions to optimize performance without impacting power ...

Qualcomm

Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134.80 - $202.20/hr

General Summary Qualcomm is looking for an experienced Windows Power/Performance Developer with passion for analyzing and optimizing software running on Windows on Snapdragon. The senior developer ...

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All JobsWindows Engineer JobsWindows Engineer Jobs in California

Windows Engineer information

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How much do windows engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for windows engineer in California is $55.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $60.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do Windows engineers make?

Windows engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Server. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in scripting, virtualization, or cloud integration can earn higher salaries.

What does a Windows engineer do?

A Windows Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining Microsoft Windows-based systems within an organization. Their duties include installing and configuring Windows servers and workstations, managing system updates and security patches, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring network performance and security. They often work with other IT professionals to support business operations and may also be involved in virtualization, cloud services, and scripting automation tasks. A Windows Engineer ensures that the organization's Windows infrastructure is reliable, secure, and optimized for business needs.

How does a Windows engineer typically collaborate with other IT teams within an organization?

Windows Engineers regularly work alongside network administrators, security analysts, and application support teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of Windows-based systems. Collaboration often involves troubleshooting complex issues, coordinating system updates or deployments, and aligning security protocols across departments. Effective communication skills and the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders are essential for success in this collaborative environment.

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

To thrive as a Windows Engineer, you need a strong background in Windows operating systems, system administration, and networking, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Active Directory, PowerShell scripting, and certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Server or Azure Administrator are typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and handle complex technical issues. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable system performance, security, and efficient support in enterprise IT environments.

What is the difference between Windows Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectWindows EngineerNetwork Administrator
CertificationsMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server, CompTIA Network+Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentFocus on Windows OS, servers, and related infrastructureManage entire network, including routers, switches, and security
Employer UsageIT departments supporting Windows-based systemsOrganizations needing network infrastructure management
Search IntentRoles related to Windows server managementRoles related to network infrastructure and security

While both roles work within IT infrastructure, a Windows Engineer specializes in Windows server environments, whereas a Network Administrator manages overall network systems and connectivity. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus.

What are popular job titles related to Windows Engineer jobs in CA? For Windows Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Windows Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Software Engineer - Windows Internals - Fully Remote

Westlight AI

Palo Alto, CA • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

At Westlight, we build products that help companies and governments to provide an extra layer of security for their infrastructure. We work with the internals of different operating systems to provide a framework that brings a completely new level of security and control.

We are looking for a Windows software engineer who has enough autonomy to lead the implementation of features related to kernel-mode drivers and integrate those features with other I/O subsystems. The ideal candidate will have prior experience writing Windows security software, e.g. anti-malware scanners or other low-level software.

This position offers significant opportunities for career development. Westlight's core team comprises of Stanford and MIT PhDs with expertise in AI, cybersecurity, CI/CD, and large-scale software systems. In this position, one will have opportunities to expand into these areas based on interest and expertise developed while working at Westlight.

Westlight is a fully remote company and this position can be held anywhere in the US. Since we work closely with the US Air Force, we require all applicants to be US Citizens and located in the US.

What we are looking for
  • Strong skills in Windows / C# desktop development
  • Comprehensive understanding of C and low-level memory management
  • Advanced use of debugging tools, e.g. WinDbg, KD, CDB, NTSD
  • Prior experience with Windows security software development, e.g. anti-malware scanners
  • Intermediate knowledge on networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, UDP, and common application protocols, e.g. HTTP, SSH, etc.)
  • Basic knowledge on Public-key cryptography fundamentals
    • Beginner knowledge on elliptic curve cryptography is a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills and someone who thrives in a cooperative team environment
Technologies
  • Operating Systems: Windows 10 and Server
  • Programming languages: C#, C++, and C
    • Knowledge of Ruby on Rails and AWS also will be helpful
  • CI/CD Tools: Gitlab CI
Responsibilities

As a Software Engineer, you will work on Westlight product development:

  • Develop Westlight Windows kernel-level software
  • Integrate kernel-level software with other subsystems, such as I/O
  • Work together with the company leadership to define the Westlight Windows experience
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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