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

Apple· Core OS / Darwin Kernel Quality Engineering
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Cupertino, CA$129.3k - $225.3kfull-timePosted 1w ago

About the role

SDET role within Apple’s Darwin Kernel Quality Engineering to drive quality across core kernel and hardware technologies, build validation infrastructure, define test strategies, and deliver reliable quality signals for kernel features and related infrastructure.

Responsibilities

  • Define and execute qualification strategies for kernel features supporting both hardware and software initiatives, ensuring alignment with silicon and product roadmaps
  • Partner closely with kernel development teams to understand system architecture, feature design, and subsystem interactions (e.g., memory management, cpu scheduling, power, and tracing)
  • Design and implement integration, system, and end-to-end test coverage, with targeted unit testing where appropriate, using languages such as C and Python
  • Build and evolve automation and validation infrastructure to enable scalable, high-signal testing across the development lifecycle
  • Investigate, triage, and root cause complex test failures spanning kernel, hardware, and infrastructure layers, driving issues to resolution
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering teams to debug issues, influence design decisions, and deliver robust, scalable solutions
  • Drive improvements in test architecture, coverage, and reliability to ensure fast, actionable feedback for developers
  • Analyze quality data and trends to identify systemic risks, gaps in coverage, and opportunities for increased confidence in release readiness
  • Communicate quality status, key risks, and strategic focus areas to engineering leadership and executive stakeholders through clear, data-driven reporting
  • Operate effectively in ambiguous environments, independently prioritizing work and influencing quality outcomes across a large, multi-team organization
  • Proven ability to independently manage QA efforts across cross-functional teams.
  • Skilled at communicating quality status to stakeholders with strong project and time management skills.
  • Skilled in testing methodologies, test planning, and defining validation strategies.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills, and experience with programming languages like Python and C.
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Proven ability to independently manage QA efforts across cross-functional teams.
  • Skilled at communicating quality status to stakeholders with strong project and time management skills.
  • Skilled in testing methodologies, test planning, and defining validation strategies.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills, and experience with programming languages like Python and C.

Skills

Required:Test strategy and qualification planningAutomation developmentProgramming in CProgramming in PythonKernel and infrastructure debuggingCommunication with stakeholders

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
  • Retirement benefits
  • Discounted products and free services
  • Reimbursement for certain educational expenses including tuition
  • Discretionary bonuses or commission payments (eligibility may apply)
  • Relocation assistance (eligibility may apply)
  • Employee stock programs including discretionary RSU awards and potential participation in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Last updated Oct 16, 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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