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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Windows Kernel Developer information

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$59.7K

$133.2K

$220.6K

How much do windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows kernel 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.

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.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California? For Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Windows Kernel Developer jobs in California are:
Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you

Security Engineer - Remote (United States)

Webster & Webster Associates

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

LOCATIONS: San Francisco CA, San Jose CA, Irvine CA, San Diego CA, Portland OR, Seattle WA, Boston MA, or Washington DC
LOCATION TYPE: Remote work available depending on location (require local candidates)
JOB TYPE: Full-Time
Global Cybersecurity startup is seeking an experienced Security Engineer.The ideal candidate is a technical wizard, has strong RTOS and HW platform knowledge, takes pride in tackling challenges and gets motivated about owning critical services.
MUST HAVES

  • 5+ years cloud and systems security experience

  • Extensive experience developing in C and C++ programming language

  • Experience with several operating systems (Linux, Embedded Linux, Windows, etc.)

  • Real-time operating system / RTOS experience (QNX, VxWorks, ThreadX, FreeRTOS, MQX, etc.)

  • Experience working with bare-metal programming, low-level systems, system calls, bootloaders, device drivers

  • Embedded operating systems

  • Hypervisor technologies and microkernel expertise


NICE TO HAVE

  • Experience writing an operating system (or a significant part of it)

  • Familiarity with ARM, x866 and assembly programming language

  • Linux kernel experience


EDUCATION

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field of study


JO-2107-906

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