Opportunity Embedded & Firmware work from LinkedIn, X, Reddit and Upwork, in one list. Find me work
techroles

Windows Kernel Developer

Nwis Open · verified Oct 24, 2026
Sterling Full-time Mid-level Embedded & Firmware

At a glance

Mid-level Embedded & Firmware role at Nwis. Sterling · full-time · $122,000–$253,000 base.

SalaryStated by Nwis
$122,000 – $253,000
Base salary for this role, in USD per year, as published in the posting.
RoleEmbedded & Firmware
SeniorityMid-level
LocationSterling
EmploymentFull-time
Base pay$122,000–$253,000
PostedJul 13, 2026 · 3mo ago
Role brief

techroles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

  • Build and test low-level Windows kernel software, debugging it to keep it reliable
  • Create system components and interfaces through Windows APIs
  • Investigate kernel faults and analyze system performance
  • Coordinate with engineering teams to connect and validate system components

What you bring

  • You need an active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph
  • At least three years developing, testing and debugging software in C, C++ and Python
  • At least three years building Windows software with Visual Studio and the Windows SDK
  • Three years developing and testing Windows kernel software, plus kernel debugging with Windows DDK, WinDBG or equivalent

Who this fits

This mid-level role suits you if you have hands-on Windows kernel development and debugging experience. The position depends on a contract award.

From the employer

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.


Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring strong expertise in kernel-level development, Windows internals, and advanced debugging techniques to deliver high-performance, reliable solutions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and debug kernel-level software for the Windows operating system

  • Develop low-level system components and interfaces using Windows APIs

  • Perform kernel-level diagnostics, troubleshooting, and performance analysis

  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate and validate system components

  • Ensure software reliability, security, and maintainability through rigorous testing and debugging practices

Required Qualifications

  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance

  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software using C, C++, and Python

  • Minimum of three (3) years of in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging Windows-based software using Visual Studio IDE and the Windows SDK

  • Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Windows low-level systems development and Windows APIs

  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and testing Windows kernel-level software

  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience performing Windows kernel-level debugging and diagnostics using tools such as Windows DDK, WinDBG, or equivalent

Desired Skills (Preferred)

  • Strong understanding of operating system architecture and device drivers

  • Experience with system performance optimization and root-cause analysis

  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, technically complex environment

Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.


Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.


Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.


Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

Opportunity

Embedded & Firmware work from LinkedIn, X, Reddit and Upwork, in one list.

Each morning you get everything that fits, strongest first.

Embedded & Firmware$120k+

Find me work

By the team behind techroles.

Find me work
Opportunity

Embedded & Firmware work from LinkedIn, X, Reddit and Upwork, in one list.

Each morning you get everything that fits, strongest first.

Find me work

By the team behind techroles.