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Windows Kernel Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

#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 ...

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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Windows Kernel information

See California salary details

$10

$55

$66

How much do windows kernel jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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 job?

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 job categories do people searching Windows Kernel jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Windows Kernel jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.
Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

Windows Performance Engineer, Staff

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Qualcomm rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 202 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering
General Summary:
Qualcomm is looking for an experienced Windows Power/Performance Developer with passion for analyzing and optimizing software running on Windows on Snapdragon.
Ideal candidate has background to understand and identify/implement software optimizations across multiple layers of Software, Windows Operating System, Kernel, Compiler, Drivers, Assembly Language, CPU microarchitecture and SoC/Memory/Bus architecture.
As a Windows Performance Developer, you'll be owning and driving analysis of complex system level performance aspects and coming up with solutions to optimize performance without impacting power consumption to deliver best in class software performance for next generation of Windows on Snapdragon desktop devices using Qualcomm SoC's. In this role you will work closely with software architects, OS and kernel developers, CPU architects and SOC architects to define performance optimization strategies to deliver the best performing Windows on Snapdragon desktop devices.
We are looking for a self-starter, with excellent people and leadership skills to drive analysis and optimizations with senior technical members from broad set of teams across Qualcomm and external partners. Should be able to self-manage and work through ambiguous issues and requirements. The candidate should have strong written and verbal communication skills.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• 2+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Responsibilities:
  • In-depth analysis of key software benchmarks and applications to identify optimization opportunities
  • Implement software optimizations to ensure performance criteria is met
  • Develop and enhance analysis tools and instrumentation to assist in analysis, identifying performance gaps and optimization options
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners for analysis and optimizations
  • Identifies risks associated with designs, approaches, and other work efforts.
  • Solves complex technical problems that affect significant areas of products.
  • Makes decisions based on incomplete, contradictory, and ambiguous requirements and information that affect policies and multiple teams in the software development process.
  • Acts as a tech lead on projects and owns the outcome of the project.
  • Leads others with technical credibility.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related field.
  • 5+ years of Software Engineering with focus in Power/Performance or related work experience.
  • Experienced in C/C++, ARM assembly
  • Familiarity with C#, Java, Javascript, Python is a plus
  • Strong familiarity with ARM architecture
  • Good understanding of CPU Architecture, Memory and Bus architecture and how that impacts software performance Experienced in performance characterization and software optimization techniques
  • Able to debug complex problems across multiple layers of Hardware, OS, compiler, and drivers
  • Experience with Windows OS, Visual Studio/LLVM compiler and Windows Performance Analyzer (WPA) tools is preferred Experience in Compiler and JIT technologies is a plus
  • Experience with optimizing for popular CPU software benchmarks is a plus

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$134,800.00 - $202,200.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985