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Windows Kernel Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qualcomm

Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$148K/yr

In this role you will work closely with software architects, OS and kernel developers, CPU ... Experience with Windows OS, Visual Studio/LLVM compiler and Windows Performance Analyzer (WPA ...

Qualcomm

Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134.80 - $202.20/hr

Work closely with software architects, OS and kernel developers, CPU architects and SOC architects ... Experience with Windows OS, Visual Studio/LLVM compiler, and Windows Performance Analyzer (WPA ...

Zealogics Inc

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Professionally resolve hardware issues • HPC Rack, Build, cable, configure, and provision Linux kernel, windows server. • HPC Operating System Installation/provision - Windows Server, Linux, Unix ...

Qualcomm

#Embedded Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

In-depth knowledge of Windows development environment and functionality and architecture especially driver module. * Excellent debugging and problem-solving skills in Linux Kernel. Familiar with ARM ...

Zealogics.com

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

HPC Rack, Build, cable, configure, and provision Linux kernel, windows server. * HPC Operating System Installation/provision - Windows Server, Linux, Unix. * Troubleshooting and resolving hardware ...

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$10

$55

$66

How much do windows kernel jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for windows kernel in California is $55.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $60.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Windows Kernel position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Windows Kernel engineer, you need deep expertise in C/C++ programming, operating system internals, and computer architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with debugging tools like WinDbg, experience with kernel-mode development, and knowledge of Windows hardware abstraction layers are valuable, as are certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills for diagnosing and addressing complex system issues. These abilities are crucial for developing reliable system-level code and collaborating efficiently with cross-functional engineering teams.

What is a Windows Kernel?

A Windows Kernel job involves working with the core of the Windows operating system, which manages hardware, processes, memory, and security. Professionals in this role typically develop, debug, or enhance kernel-mode drivers, system components, and low-level OS functionality. This requires expertise in C/C++, debugging tools like WinDbg, and a deep understanding of Windows internals. These roles are critical for ensuring system stability, performance, and security in various applications, including cybersecurity, virtualization, and hardware communication.

What are some typical challenges faced by Windows Kernel engineers, and how do they address them?

Windows Kernel engineers frequently encounter complex issues such as debugging low-level system crashes, resolving compatibility problems with hardware or drivers, and ensuring the security and stability of the operating system core. Addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, familiarity with specialized debugging tools, and the ability to work methodically under pressure. Collaboration with other engineers, hardware teams, and QA professionals is common to quickly isolate and resolve intricate problems. Continuous learning is also important, as kernel-level technology and security standards are constantly evolving. This dynamic environment provides opportunities to grow both technically and professionally.

What are popular job titles related to Windows Kernel jobs in California?

For Windows Kernel jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Windows Kernel jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Windows Kernel jobs in California are:

Windows Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer, Networking Tools Team

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 244 rated software companies

Job description

NVIDIA is searching for a highly motivated, excellent Senior Software Engineer for design and verification to join the software tools group. You will design and develop tools that enable developers worldwide to harness the full power of NVIDIA products. The successful candidate will show a strong background in C++ programming, strong documentation, and writing skills, take ownership of parts of the codebase, good communication and ability to integrate well as part of the team and organization, and motivated to solve sophisticated problems, developing tools for management, burning, configuration and debugging of all NVIDIA networking products.

What you'll be doing:

As a valued member of the team, you will lead some of the tools' technical roadmap, design and implementation of numerous features working in an Agile environment. You will write code in C, C++ and Python, using OOP methodology

  • Technically lead development for modern network tools for our next-generation products.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and specifications to debug configure and manage the firmware.

  • Take ownership of the entire development process, from design to production and verification.

What we need to see:

  • BSc degree or equivalent experience in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related degree

  • Excellent C++ and Python programming skills

  • 5+ years of programming experience

  • Strong Object-Oriented Programming abilities

  • Able to work effectively with a team of engineers, in a fast paced and dynamic environment

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Able to estimate effectively to ensure delivery of software on time

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

  • Strong ability to understand and quickly get into a large existing codebase

  • Ability to reverse engineer legacy code

  • Linux/Windows kernel experience and deep understanding of SW/HW communication

  • Experience in development of code supporting multiple operating systems (Linux, Windows, VMware, FreeBSD)

  • Be able to demonstrate initiative and determination in getting things done

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, we are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our exclusive engineering teams are rapidly growing. If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear from you.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until March 26, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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