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Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Procom Services

211774 / C/C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$53.25 - $72/hr

Debug and development experience with Windows* kernel debuggers and/or Windows* application ... Windows* application software programming experience * Java experience * HTTPS protocol experience

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 ...

Lorven Technologies

Software Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

Software Developer Location: Austin, TX * Develop high-performance C++ functional models for AMD ... Linux and Windows kernel debugging. * Functional modelling, architecture simulation, or hypervisor ...

Procom

/ C/C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$53.25 - $72/hr

211774 / C/C++ Developer Procom is a leading provider of professional IT services and staffing to ... Debug and development experience with Windows* kernel debuggers and/or Windows* application ...

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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 Security Researcher

LinkLLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
LinkLLC is focused on conducting security research related to Windows technologies. As a Windows Security Researcher, you will be responsible for vulnerability research, documenting findings, and writing code in C, Python, and Assembly to demonstrate control over identified vulnerabilities.
Responsibilities:
• As a Windows Security Researcher, you will be part of a team focused on conducting security research related to Windows technologies.
• You should be familiar with the latest techniques in vulnerability research and demonstrate the ability to adhere to best practices.
• Attention to detail is critical, especially when documenting research findings.
• Additionally, you will often be required to write code in C, Python, and Assembly to showcase control over identified vulnerabilities.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Understanding of Windows Kernel and device drivers
• Experience reading and writing assembly (x86/x64)
• Extensive experience with debuggers (WinDBG, etc.)
• Strong C, Python, and Assembly development experience
• Ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and developers as part of a team
Company:
We engineer lasting solutions in partnership with our clients, to protect our nation's security information/systems and infrastructure and to defend our country and interests. Founded in , the company is headquartered in Annapolis Junction , Maryland, US, , with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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