Software Development Engineer in Test - Kernel Quality Engineering, Core OS

Apple Inc

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
Cupertino, CA
Salary
$147,400–$272,100 / yr
Posted
43 days ago

Market check

Salary context

Above market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $179k
This role $210k
$128k most similar roles pay here $288k

This role pays more than 68% of similar roles. Most pay $143,612–$214,500 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $210k versus about $179k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About Apple Inc

Apple Inc. is a multinational technology company known for designing and manufacturing consumer electronics, software, and online services, including the iPhone, Mac, iPad, and App Store. Industry: Consumer Electronics & Software

Apple Inc currently has 638 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $171,600–$272,100 across 505 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Software Development Engineer in Test - Kernel Quality Engineering, Core OS

As a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) at Apple’s Darwin Kernel Quality Engineering team, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and stability of core kernel technologies across all Apple devices. Your responsibilities include defining and executing qualification strategies for new kernel features, partnering with development teams to understand system architecture and feature design, and implementing robust automation and validation infrastructure using languages like C and Python. You will investigate complex test failures, collaborate cross-functionally to debug issues, and drive improvements in test architecture to provide actionable feedback throughout the development lifecycle. This role requires a deep technical understanding of kernel areas such as memory management, concurrency, and power transitions, along with strong communication skills to influence quality decisions across teams.

What you'll do

  • Define and execute qualification strategies for kernel features aligned with hardware and software initiatives.
  • Design and implement comprehensive test coverage using C and Python for integration, system, and end-to-end testing.
  • Build and evolve automation infrastructure to enable scalable, high-signal testing throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Investigate and root cause complex test failures spanning kernel, hardware, and infrastructure layers.
  • Drive improvements in test architecture and reliability to provide fast, actionable feedback for developers.
  • Analyze quality data trends to identify systemic risks and gaps in coverage, enhancing release readiness confidence.

What we're looking for

  • Proven ability to manage QA efforts across cross-functional teams.
  • Strong experience in testing methodologies, test planning, and validation strategies.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and C.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or related field.
  • Experience designing and implementing system-level tests for kernel features.
  • Ability to build and evolve automation infrastructure for scalable testing.

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