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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Legato, LLC

Windows CNO Developer (BZ)

Washington, DC · 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 ...

Legato, LLC

Windows CNO Developer (BZ)

Washington, DC · 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 ...

Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Nwis

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Link, LLC

Windows Security Researcher

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Position Requirements: • Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers • Experience ... researchers and developers as part of a team We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to ...

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Windows Kernel Developer information

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 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.

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 Washington? The most popular types of Windows Kernel Developer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Windows Kernel Developer jobs in Washington? For Windows Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel Developer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Windows Kernel Developer

Nwis

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 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.


Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.


Nightwingoffers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.


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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