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Windows Kernel Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Strong understanding of kernel-level OS architectures such as Linux, Unix, Solaris, BSD-like systems, Windows, embedded real-time Operating Systems * Extensive kernel-level development experience and ...

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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 Jun 13, 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 99% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,679 per year, or $55.1 per hour.
Software Engineer

$120K - $192K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Broadcom rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

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Job Description:

At VMware by Broadcom, we are building new possibilities for our customers by accelerating digital business transformation. We are modernizing data centers for greater agility and productivity, integrating public clouds for faster time to market, empowering digital workspaces to improve mobile experiences, and transforming cyber security.

ESXi Operating System is at the core of VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) virtualization technology. It is the leading data center operating system in the world, and is used by most large corporations, due to its advanced capabilities, performance, and quality. VMKernel team is responsible for architecture, design and implementation of Memory and CPU subsystems, which is central to the operation of the ESXi Operating System. We constantly innovate to help customers adopt virtualization for new platforms and optimize the usage of their existing infrastructure. Our work will challenge your systems software development and problem-solving skills.

As a member of VMKernel team, you will have the opportunity to

  • Implement advanced kernel-level resource management features for support of new hardware technologies with emphasis on scalability, performance, reliability.

  • Be a successful VMKernel engineer and participate in the design and development of novel operating system techniques and algorithms for managing both virtual and real computer hardware.

  • Work with multiple engineering teams to architect, design, implement and deliver new products based on the enterprise-class VCF virtualization platform.

  • Take on opportunities to execute innovative features and subsequent ownership of large projects.

Requirements

  • BS degree in Computer Science or related field and 8+ years of relevant industry experience. Or MS in Computer Science or related field and 6+ years of relevant industry experience Or PhD and 3+ years of relevant experience

  • Good understanding of kernel-level development. Understanding of kernel-level memory management is a plus.

  • Broad understanding of OS virtualization solutions, particularly experience with hypervisors such as ESXi, Hyper-V, KVM, XEN, and others a major plus

  • Strong understanding of kernel-level OS architectures such as Linux, Unix, Solaris, BSD-like systems, Windows, embedded real-time Operating Systems

  • Extensive kernel-level development experience and expertise with synchronization in preemptive multi-threaded environments

  • Experience with Intel x86 CPU architecture and Intel based server architecture. Similar experience and understanding of AMD architecture, a plus

  • Excellent analytical, debugging and C / C++ programming skills. Python knowledge is a plus.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Additional Job Description:

Compensation and Benefits

The annual base salary range for this position is $120,000 - $192,000

This position is also eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in accordance with relevant plan documents, and equity in accordance with equity plan documents and equity award agreements.

Broadcom offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401(K) participation including company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company paid holidays, paid sick leave and vacation time. The company follows all applicable laws for Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

Broadcom is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, disability status, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We will also consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records consistent with local law.

If you are located outside USA, please be sure to fill out a home address as this will be used for future correspondence.

Welcome! Thank you for your interest in Broadcom!

We are a global technology leader that designs, develops and supplies a broad range of semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions.

For more information please visit our video library (http://www.broadcom.com/videos) and check out our Connected by Broadcom (https://www.broadcom.com/support/resources/video-webinar-library?channel=5c9658f7c1d34eca91c6cc16178e5b1b&video=7d72b04ea50046a394e682fab640ce20) series.

Follow us on Linked In Broadcom Inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/broadcom) .


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