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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 ...

Legato, LLC

Windows CNO Developer (BZ)

Virginia, MN · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

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 ...

Upwind Security

Windows Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

Experience developing Windows Kernel Drivers * Experience developing Windows Security modules utilizing WMI or other security framework * Familiarity with Windows internals, networking and file ...

Nwis

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling * Experience working in secure or regulated environments * Strong documentation and communication skills ...

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 ...

Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling * Experience working in secure or regulated environments * Strong documentation and communication skills ...

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Windows Kernel information

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How much do windows kernel jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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 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 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.

More about Windows Kernel jobs

What states have the most Windows Kernel jobs?

States with the most job openings for Windows Kernel jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Windows Kernel jobs are:

Windows Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Windows Kernel job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,200 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Windows CNO Developer (BZ)

Legato, LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Legato, LLC recruiters (Staffing@legatocorp.com) would love to speak with you regarding the following position: Windows CNO Developer in Dulles, VA.
Security Clearance Required: TS/SCI minimum
What You Will Do:
We are seeking a highly skilled CNO Developer with strong reverse engineering capabilities to support advanced research, systems development, and threat analysis. This role requires deep knowledge of the Windows operating system internals, low-level programming, and the ability to analyze and deconstruct binaries for vulnerabilities, malware, or undocumented system behavior. 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 understand system behavior, exploits, or undocumented APIs. Conduct vulnerability research and proof-of-concept exploit development. Analyze crash dumps, root cause bugs, and provide kernel-level debugging and troubleshooting support. Collaborate with cybersecurity researchers, analysts, and software engineers to support security-focused development efforts. Document findings, architecture, and procedures clearly for internal teams or external clients.
Our minimum requirements for this role:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.
  • 3+ years of CNO development experience with Windows.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Previous experience in Windows kernel development.
  • Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming.
  • Expertise with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, x64dbg, WinDbg, and Hex-Rays.
  • In-depth understanding of Windows internals (e.g., kernel-mode drivers, memory management, system calls, PE file format).
  • Experience with kernel-mode debugging and root cause analysis.
  • Familiarity with secure coding practices and low-level exploit mitigation techniques (e.g., PatchGuard, CFG, DEP/ASLR).
  • Strong understanding of malware behavior and techniques

About Your New Company
Legato, LLC is a dynamic small business headquartered in Columbia, near Ft. Meade, MD. Our positions include Cyber, Software, Systems, Networking, Data Science and other complex engineering capabilities. We set ourselves apart by having employees in the top of their field and who enjoy working at Legato for its attention to its employees, aggressive compensation, and upward mobility possibilities.
We offer a generous benefits package including individual and family health, vision and dental benefits. A minimum of four (4) weeks of paid time off including a week of sick leave. Legato gives our employees 11 federal holidays off and a 401(k) employer match with no vesting schedule. There is an opportunity to earn referral benefits or bank hours if the contract allows.
Disclaimer: The salary range provided is an estimate based on current market conditions and may be adjusted based on factors such as experience, skills, and qualifications. The final salary offer will be determined after a thorough review of the candidate's background and alignment with the role. Please note that this range is subject to change and should be considered as a guideline rather than a definitive figure.
Legato LLC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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