Qualcomm is hiring a Principal Embedded Software Engineer for its Core Platform Kernel Services Software team, responsible for developing and maintaining drivers and kernel services across multiple operating systems including QuRT OS, Windows, Linux, QNX, FreeRTOS, and Zephyr. The role involves creating protocols and algorithms essential for inter-processor communication (IPC) and system-level debugging on Qualcomm System-on-Chip (SOC) devices used in mobile handsets, compute, automotive, XR/AR, cloud AI, IoT, and IIoT markets. Ideal candidates will have a master’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering, extensive experience with C programming and data structures, and expertise in Windows development environments, Linux kernel debugging, and ARM CoreSight architecture. Additional skills in compiler technologies, optimizing CPU benchmarks, and familiarity with security architectures are preferred. The position demands strong problem-solving abilities, continuous learning, and collaboration with a diverse set of stakeholders to innovate and deliver high-performance solutions.
Skills
C
Linux Kernel
ARM CoreSight
Windows OS
Visual Studio
LLVM
Python
Perl
Assembly
C++
ETM
CPU Architecture
Memory Bus Architecture
Interprocessor Communications
Reset Controller Hardware
Crash Debug Sequence
Security Architecture
Windows Performance Analyzer
Compiler Technology
JIT Technologies
What you'll do
Develops and modifies drivers and Kernel Services for Qualcomm SOCs.
Designs protocols and algorithms for interprocessor communication (IPC) and system-level debugging.
Engages with open-source communities to upstream and enhance IPC solutions.
Analyzes requirements from OEMs, ODMs, and carriers for new use cases.
Optimizes software performance by understanding CPU architecture and memory systems.
Troubleshoots complex issues in Linux Kernel using advanced debugging tools.
Collaborates on documentation, design, implementation, and testing of software projects.
What we're looking for
Experience in C and data structures.
In-depth knowledge of Windows development environment and driver modules.
Excellent debugging skills in Linux Kernel; familiarity with ARM CoreSight architecture preferred.
Understanding of CPU Architecture, Memory, and Bus architecture impacting software performance.
Knowledge of interprocessor communications, reset controllers, and crash debug sequences.
Familiarity with Python/Perl and experience with Assembly/C++ languages is beneficial.
Masters degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
Market check
Salary context
This
$94,200–$141,200
range sits above
17%
of similar postings on FindRole.
Peer median band
$123,000–$198,000
Median floor and ceiling across peers.
Typical midpoint (25–75%)
$135,375–$185,137
Middle half of comparable postings.
Based on 240 comparable postings.*
* 240 is the maximum number of comparable postings sampled.
Employer
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm is a leading American semiconductor and telecommunications company based in San Diego, CA.
Qualcomm currently has
595 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$148,300–$222,500
across 540 roles with salary data.