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Core OS Software Engineer - USB4/Thunderbolt

Apple· Software and Services
Apply on company site
Cupertino, CA$129.3k - $225.3kfull-timePosted 2w ago

About the role

Core OS software engineer focused on USB4 and Thunderbolt, developing kernel driver extensions and features across Apple OSes, with emphasis on integrating hardware and software for high-speed I/O connectivity.

Responsibilities

  • Develop new, innovative Apple products across a fast-paced roadmap.
  • Influence the definition of Apple Silicon and hardware, implementing new features and supporting product bring-up.
  • Contribute to USB4 and Thunderbolt kernel driver extensions across Appleʼs operating systems.
  • Build breakthrough capabilities like RDMA over Thunderbolt, enabling distributed AI inference across clusters of Thunderbolt-connected Macs.
  • Implement new features and enhancements in software as the specifications evolve over time.
  • Debug, root cause, and develop solutions to enhance the USB4 and Thunderbolt customer experience.
  • Collaborate with vendors to drive improvement of the USB4 and Thunderbolt ecosystems, and to ensure interoperability with Appleʼs solutions.

Qualifications

  • Experience with C/C++ programming languages
  • Solid foundation in computer science and operating system fundamentals
  • Bachelors degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience/skills
  • Prior internship, co-op, or university lab experience in systems software, firmware, or embedded development
  • Familiarity with modern connectivity and high-speed bus architectures (e.g., USB4, Thunderbolt, USB-C/PD, PCIe, or DisplayPort)
  • Hands-on exposure to driver development concepts or low-level operating systems
  • Experience using hardware debugging tools (such as protocol analyzers, logic analyzers, or oscilloscopes) to diagnose software/hardware interface issues
  • Demonstrated ability to trace, debug, and understand multi-layered software systems through school projects, open-source work, or internships.
  • Proactive learner eager to take technical initiative and partner closely with senior mentors and cross-functional teams

Skills

Required:C/C++ programmingOperating system fundamentalsHardware debugging toolsDriver development conceptsSystem tracing and debuggingCollaboration with cross-functional teams

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
  • retirement benefits
  • range of discounted products and free services
  • reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition
  • discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation (eligibility dependent)
  • Apple shareholder opportunities through discretionary employee stock programs
  • Apple Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Last updated Oct 9, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Apple

Discover the innovative world of Apple and shop everything iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV, plus explore accessories, entertainment, and expert device support.

Discover the innovative world of Apple and shop everything iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV, plus explore accessories, entertainment, and expert device support.

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