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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

Nwis

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL

$51 - $67.25/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

Cylake, Inc

Windows System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Windows Kernel Engineering * Design and develop production-quality Windows kernel drivers using WDM ... WDF. * Build kernel instrumentation and telemetry pipelines for endpoint visibility. * Develop high ...

Cylake Inc.

Windows System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

Windows Kernel Engineering * Design and develop production-quality Windows kernel drivers using WDM ... WDF. * Build kernel instrumentation and telemetry pipelines for endpoint visibility. * Develop high ...

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Windows Kernel Developer information

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How much do windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows kernel developer in the United States is $134,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Windows Kernel Developer?

A Windows Kernel Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and debugging software that interacts with the Windows operating system at the kernel level. This includes creating drivers, improving system performance, and ensuring security. They work with low-level programming languages like C and C++ and require a deep understanding of Windows internals, memory management, and concurrency. Their role is critical in industries such as cybersecurity, device driver development, and enterprise software solutions.

What are some typical challenges a Windows Kernel Developer can expect to face on the job?

As a Windows Kernel Developer, you will often encounter complex debugging scenarios, where identifying and addressing low-level issues such as memory corruption, race conditions, or system crashes can be challenging. Working closely with hardware teams, application developers, and QA engineers, you'll need to interpret intricate technical details and integrate kernel changes without disrupting system stability. The environment may require handling urgent production issues and keeping up with Microsoft's evolving kernel architecture and security models. However, these challenges offer valuable opportunities to deepen your expertise and have a direct impact on system reliability and performance.

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

To thrive as a Windows Kernel Developer, you need strong programming skills in C/C++, deep knowledge of operating system concepts, and experience with kernel-mode debugging and Windows internals, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with tools like WinDbg, Visual Studio, and the Windows Driver Kit (WDK), as well as certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Operating System Fundamentals, is valuable. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills, enabling you to solve complex technical challenges and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These capabilities are crucial for designing robust, secure, and high-performance system software that operates at the core of Windows environments.

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Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,970 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA • On-site

Nightwing
See more jobs at Nightwingexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Nightwing is a company that provides advanced cyber, data operations, and intelligence mission support services. They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, test, and debug kernel-level software for the Windows operating system
• Develop low-level system components and interfaces using Windows APIs
• Perform kernel-level diagnostics, troubleshooting, and performance analysis
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate and validate system components
• Ensure software reliability, security, and maintainability through rigorous testing and debugging practices
Qualifications:
Required:
• Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software using C, C++, and Python
• Minimum of three (3) years of in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging Windows-based software using Visual Studio IDE and the Windows SDK
• Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Windows low-level systems development and Windows APIs
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and testing Windows kernel-level software
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience performing Windows kernel-level debugging and diagnostics using tools such as Windows DDK, WinDBG, or equivalent
Preferred:
• Strong understanding of operating system architecture and device drivers
• Experience with system performance optimization and root-cause analysis
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, technically complex environment
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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