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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 ...

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Windows Engineer information

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$10

$55

$66

How much do windows engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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.

What does a Windows engineer do?

A Windows engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining Windows-based systems and infrastructure. They troubleshoot issues, configure servers and networks, and ensure system security and performance, often using tools like PowerShell and Active Directory. Certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Server are common in this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in high-demand fields such as software, data, or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. These roles often require advanced certifications, expertise in cloud platforms, or management responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

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.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Age is not a barrier to becoming a Windows Engineer or any engineering role, as skills, experience, and continuous learning are more important. Many professionals start or transition into tech careers later in life, often leveraging certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Server or related skills. Employers value practical knowledge and problem-solving ability regardless of age.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, cloud infrastructure, or cybersecurity can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. These positions often require expertise in high-demand technologies, management skills, and sometimes involve working in high-cost-of-living areas or for large organizations.

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
Windows Driver Validation Engineer

Windows Driver Validation Engineer

Sustainable Talent

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$50 - $80/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Sustainable Talent is partnering with Nvidia a global leader who's been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for over 25 years. We are looking for a Windows Driver Validation Engineer to support our client's team onsite in Santa Clara, CA. 

This is a full-time (W-2) 6 month contract role. We offer competitive pay $50/hr - $80/hr based on factors like experience, education, location, etc. and provide full benefits, PTO, and amazing company culture!

In this role you will be responsible for test and analysis of issues across internal and OEM Windows platform configurations. The role ensures CI/CD quality, Windows driver compliance, OEM readiness (HLK/WHQL where applicable), and release readiness across system-level builds.

Key Responsibilities:

Device Setup & Configuration: Flash Windows OS builds onto boards and OEM devices; install and validate SoC, GPU, USB, display, and platform drivers; configure Windows debugging tools (e.g., WinDbg/KDNET); enable and collect crash dumps and system logs.

Perform Windows system-level and driver-level validation across functional, stress, power management (Modern Standby, S3/S4), and performance scenarios.

Investigate Windows system crashes (e.g., BSOD), analyze memory dumps and Windows event logs, and support root cause analysis in collaboration with driver and platform teams.

Develop and execute automated and manual test plans across internal and OEM Windows configurations, validating multiple driver and software build versions.

Conduct exploratory testing to identify subsystem-level issues (USB, display, PCIe, power management, etc.).

Triage internal and OEM defects; reproduce failures, collect logs and crash dumps, document findings, and track issue resolution through release readiness.

Work closely with BSP, driver, OEM QA, and automation teams to ensure CI/CD build stability, validation coverage, and certification readiness (HLK/WHQL where applicable).

Prepare detailed test execution reports and communicate validation results to internal and external stakeholders.

Skillset:

5-8 years of Windows system-level or driver-level testing experience (application-level QA experience alone is not sufficient).

Hands-on experience with Windows platform validation, driver installation, and driver debugging.

Proficiency using Windows debugging tools such as WinDbg or KDNET; experience analyzing crash dumps, memory dumps, and Windows event logs.

Strong understanding of Windows power management, including Modern Standby, ACPI, and S3/S4 sleep states.

Experience configuring UEFI/BIOS settings and flashing Windows OS builds onto hardware platforms.

Demonstrated experience in defect triage, log analysis, reproduction of issues, and root cause support.

Experience working with CI/CD pipelines supporting Windows builds and regression validation.

Familiarity with Windows Driver Kit (WDK), HLK/WHQL certification processes, or OEM device validation is strongly preferred.

Experience validating USB4, DisplayPort (DP) tunneling, PCIe, or platform drivers is a plus.

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

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