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Windows Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Virtru

Windows Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

Lead system design and architecture reviews for Windows kernel and user-mode components * Create and maintain architectural documentation, including authoring and reviewing ADRs (Architecture ...

Link, LLC

Windows Security Researcher

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Position Requirements: • Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers • Experience reading and writing assembly (x86/x64) • Extensive experience with debuggers (WinDBG, etc.) • Strong ...

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How much do windows kernel jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for windows kernel in the United States is $55.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.08 and $61.54 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.

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What states have the most Windows Kernel jobs? States with the most job openings for Windows Kernel jobs include:
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Windows Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel job openings in the United States 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 $116,200 per year, or $55.9 per hour.
Senior Kernel Engineer (remote)

Senior Kernel Engineer (remote)

LaBine and Associates

Miami Gardens, FL • On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Our cybersecurity client builds advanced technologies that form the foundation of digital resilience. Their platform empowers enterprises to defend critical infrastructure against sophisticated adversaries by engineering protection at the deepest levels of the operating system. Through kernel-level innovations, they ensure stability, performance and security without compromise.

They are looking for a SENIOR KERNEL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER with deep expertise in Windows internals and driver engineering and cybersecurity experience. This individual will architect and maintain low-level system components that serve as the cornerstone of their security platform. You will be at the forefront of creating advanced defense capabilities that operate where attackers least expect resistance - the kernel.

Core Responsibilities

  • Architect and implement Windows kernel-mode drivers (file system, registry, network, and related filter technologies) to enable monitoring, policy enforcement, and defensive controls.
  • Research and leverage Windows operating system internals to design robust, bypass-resistant protections.
  • Collaborate with research teams, user-space developers, and product engineers to integrate kernel-level modules into broader security workflows.
  • Perform advanced debugging and crash analysis, using tools such as WinDbg, ETW, and custom diagnostics to identify root causes and performance bottlenecks.

Required Qualifications:

  • Prior exposure to the cybersecurity sector
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in Windows kernel development, with a focus on driver and filter driver design.
  • Expert-level understanding of Windows internals (memory management, I/O processing, process and thread management, object manager, etc.).
  • Strong proficiency in C/C++, Windows Driver Kit (WDK), and modern kernel debugging methodologies.
  • Proven experience within the security space—such as EDR, anti-malware, intrusion detection, or kernel-based monitoring solutions.
  • Familiarity with exploitation techniques, hooking, and rootkit behaviors, combined with strategies to counter them.
  • Demonstrated ability to engineer secure, reliable, and high-performance kernel modules.

Preferred Expertise

  • Background in reverse engineering, malware research, or kernel exploit analysis.
  • Experience with Microsoft WHQL testing, driver signing, and kernel submission pipelines.
  • Contributions to security research communities, open-source kernel projects, or technical publications.
  • Knowledge of secure development lifecycle practices and defensive coding strategies for low-level software.

Why is This a Great Opportunity

  • Cutting-Edge Technical Mission - You get to work at kernel level, deep in the OS, designing low-level security infrastructure and solving hard engineering problems, doing “real” technical work rather than just surface-level features.
  • Strong Growth Potential & Learning Curve
  • High Impact Role
  • Collaboration & Cross-Functional Integration
LaBine and Associates logo

About LaBine and Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LaBine and Associates is a full service talent acquisition firm specializing in executive search for a myriad of industries. Through our partnerships with experienced associates, we can also provide staffing support, expert consultants, and interim executives for your company’s needs. We have deep industry knowledge with understanding in multiple industries. Our specialists include experts in banking/finance, HR/Legal, Technology, Health Care, Life Sciences, Engineering, Energy, Supply Chain, Mining, Agribusiness and manufacturing.

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Mateo, CA, US

Year founded

2013

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