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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

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CNO Analyst/Programmer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

... kernel modules, network devices and test frameworks. • Lead a team of engineers and mentor junior ... Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, Embedded systems) • Experience with network programming • ...

Nwis

Senior CNO Developer (Onsite)

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Windows applications using Visual Studio or .NET environments; UNIX applications using make files ... Deep understanding of operating systems internals and kernel-level programming * Expertise in ...

Nightwing

Senior CNO Developer (Onsite)

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Windows applications using Visual Studio or .NET environments; UNIX applications using make files ... Deep understanding of operating systems internals and kernel-level programming * Expertise in ...

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Windows Kernel Developer information

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$58.7K

$131K

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How much do windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for windows kernel developer in Maryland is $130,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,800.00 and $155,300.00 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
Vulnerability Researcher 2 - [$284k/yr] TS/SCI FS-Poly with Security Clearance

Vulnerability Researcher 2 - [$284k/yr] TS/SCI FS-Poly with Security Clearance

SYSTOLIC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

$284K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Candidates must already possess an active Top Secret/SCI w. Full Scope Polygraph to be considered for this position. Summary: ● Conduct reverse engineering analysis on software and hardware components.

● Identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems. ● Develop tools and techniques to enhance reverse engineering capabilities. ● Vulnerability Researcher 2 requires having found at least two significant 0-days in the last year.

Qualifications: ● Experience programming in Assembly, C, C#, C++, Perl, or Python with an understanding of system interactions with these libraries vs. production-style environments. ● Use of Unix/Windows system APIs.

● Understanding of virtual function tables in C++. ● Heap allocation strategies and protections. ● Experience with very large software projects.

● Kernel programming experience (WDK / Unix||Linux) is a significant plus. ● Hardware/software reverse engineering experience, including the use of tools (e.g., IDA Pro, Ghidra, Binary Ninja) to identify abstract concepts about the code flow of an application. ● For hardware reverse engineering, candidates expected to have performed analysis of embedded devices, focusing primarily on identifying the software stack and points of entry to the hardware (e.g., not interested in FPGA reverse engineering, or other circuit reverse engineering).

● Candidates who can merge low-level knowledge about compilation of C/C++ code with a nuanced understanding of system design to identify and exploit common vulnerability patterns. Candidates should be comfortable with, at a minimum, user-mode stack-based buffer overflows, and heap-based exploitation strategies. Job Description: ● Conduct in-depth analysis of software and hardware components to identify vulnerabilities and potential security risks.

● Develop and implement reverse engineering techniques to gain a deep understanding of system behavior. ● Identify and exploit common vulnerability patterns, such as buffer overflows and heap-based vulnerabilities. ● Create tools and scripts to automate reverse engineering tasks and improve efficiency.

● Collaborate with other security professionals to share knowledge and expertise. ● Stay updated on the latest security trends and techniques. About SYSTOLIC: SYSTOLIC is dedicated to giving our employees the best possible company experience so that they can focus on providing outstanding support to their customer’s mission.

Our company is founded on integrity, enthusiasm, and a relentless commitment to supporting the Intelligence Community. You can learn more about us and submit an application to be considered against our current and future openings at https://systolic.com. To learn about our compensation ranges, visit our Pay Transparency page at: https://systolic.com/pay-transparency

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