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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

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 ...

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

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 · 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 ...

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 ...

REDLattice

CNO Developer (Windows Kernel)

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries (both legitimate and malicious) to ...

REDLattice

CNO Developer (Windows Kernel)

Sterling, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries (both legitimate and malicious) to ...

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Windows Kernel Developer information

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How much do windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 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.

Are kernel engineers in demand?

Kernel engineers, including Windows Kernel Developers, are in high demand due to the critical role they play in operating system stability, security, and performance. Companies in technology, cybersecurity, and hardware often seek professionals with expertise in low-level programming, debugging, and system architecture, making this a valuable and sought-after skill set.

What is a Windows Kernel Developer job?

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.

How much do kernel developers make?

Kernel developers, including those working on Windows or Linux, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in low-level programming and system architecture can earn higher salaries, especially in tech hubs or large organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Windows Kernel Developer position, 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.

Is kernel dev hard?

Kernel development, such as for the Windows operating system, is considered challenging due to its complexity, low-level programming requirements, and the need for a deep understanding of hardware and system architecture. It often requires proficiency in languages like C and C++, experience with debugging tools, and knowledge of operating system principles, making it suitable for experienced developers. The work environment demands attention to detail and careful testing to ensure system stability and security.

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's the salary of kernel?

A Windows Kernel Developer's salary typically ranges from $90,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Skilled developers with expertise in low-level programming, driver development, and system architecture tend to earn higher salaries, especially in tech hubs or large organizations.
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Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,970 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Windows Kernel Developer

Nwis

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

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 strong expertise in kernel-level development, Windows internals, and advanced debugging techniques to deliver high-performance, reliable solutions.Key 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
Required Qualifications
  • 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
Desired Skills (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
Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.


Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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