Qualcomm Technologies is hiring a Principal Software Engineer to lead Windows system development for Snapdragon-based products, focusing on the full lifecycle from feature definition to deployment within the Windows OS ecosystem. This senior role demands deep expertise in Windows operating systems, security, and enterprise solutions, with responsibilities including technical leadership for complex features, subsystems, and initiatives like BIOS, UEFI, and drivers. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Windows device driver development, power management, performance tuning, and ARM architecture, along with proficiency in C, C++, C#, Python, and other relevant technologies. This position requires strong collaboration skills and the ability to drive innovation while maintaining high standards of technical excellence within a fast-paced environment.
Skills
Windows
C
C++
Python
ARM
DevOps
WHQL Certification
Windows HLK
Power Management
Performance Tuning
Security
System Architecture
Software Engineering
Cross-Functional Teams
CI/CD
What you'll do
Lead technical initiatives to evolve Windows on Snapdragon software and recommend architecture enhancements.
Drive development for complex features and subsystems to meet product requirements, focusing on security and compliance.
Identify and mitigate technical risks in the Windows platform to ensure robustness and efficiency.
Serve as a technical expert on PC industry trends and contribute to strategic direction of product roadmaps.
Independently define requirements and develop prototypes for new software solutions within the Windows ecosystem.
Provide hands-on guidance in resolving technical challenges and improving platform efficiency during development.
What we're looking for
Deep expertise in Microsoft Windows OS concepts, kernel, drivers, APIs, power management, security, and DevOps.
Extensive experience leading teams through full software development life cycles for complex features and subsystems.
Strong knowledge of ARM architecture and Windows system architecture across heterogeneous CPU and SoC platforms.
Expertise in Windows device driver development, including WHQL Certification, HLK testing, and Windows Update processes.
Proven ability to execute product-oriented strategies and drive technical initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field with at least 15 years of software engineering experience.
Excellent problem-solving skills and effective communication abilities for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Market check
Salary context
This
$192,600–$317,800
range sits above
88%
of similar postings on FindRole.
Peer median band
$143,000–$240,355
Median floor and ceiling across peers.
Typical midpoint (25–75%)
$165,000–$216,300
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
569 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$148,300–$224,400
across 536 roles with salary data.