Apple

Apple

Posted via Apple Careers

Core OS Software Engineer - USB4/Thunderbolt

Always Hiring

Posted Oct 2, 2026

Role at a glance

Job function
Software Engineering & IT Software Engineering
Salary
Not Disclosed
Location
Cupertino, California, United States
Education
Bachelors degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience/skills.

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Role Summary

AI-generated

The USB4 and Thunderbolt software engineer develops software for connectivity features across Apple operating systems and products. The role works on kernel driver extensions, evolving protocol capabilities, and interoperability with vendors.

What You'll Do

  • Develop USB4 and Thunderbolt kernel driver extensions across Apple operating systems.
  • Implement features and enhancements as specifications evolve.
  • Support Apple Silicon and hardware features, including product bring-up.
  • Build capabilities such as RDMA over Thunderbolt.
  • Debug issues, identify root causes, and develop solutions to improve the customer experience.
  • Collaborate with vendors to improve the USB4 and Thunderbolt ecosystems and interoperability with Apple solutions.

Generated from the employer's posting. Verify important details before applying.

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Qualifications

Strong expertise in C and C++; strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, operating systems, and device driver models. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience/skills.

Required

  • Expertise in Thunderbolt and/or USB4.
  • Expertise in related technologies, e.g. USB, USB-C, USB-PD, DisplayPort, and/or PCI.
  • 2+ years of relevant industry experience in software development.
  • Development experience in IOKit/macOS/iOS, or equivalent OS driver environment.
  • Experience debugging and contributing to complex technology stacks.
  • Experience using logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, or oscilloscopes for data collection and debugging.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently.

Original job description

Content provided by the employer

Summary

Are you a big-picture thinker who loves setting ambitious goals? Do you have a passion for
understanding how each line of code affects all the others? In the Core Operating Systems
group, you'll ensure the OS is inseparable from each device's identity as a whole. That's
because this group is committed to building fully integrated operating systems that combine
hardware, software, and apps into a single Apple experience. Your dedication to cross-
disciplinary collaboration will help develop groundbreaking technologies, such as iOS, macOS.
By crafting these distinct, holistic user experiences, you'll continue to uphold and advance the
excellence people expect from Apple devices!

In Core I/O, we're revolutionizing connectivity by pushing the boundaries of I/O technology to
deliver incredibly fast data transfer, seamless device integration, and the magical user
experiences our customers love across Mac, iPad, and beyond.

Description

Weʼre looking for a motivated engineer with excellent programming, problem solving, and
communication skills to join our experienced team. As a USB4 and Thunderbolt software
engineer, you'll be at the forefront of implementing industry standard protocols that power
everything from pro video workflows to everyday file transfers. Join the team responsible for
shipping code that runs on nearly every Apple product, and collaborate with brilliant engineers
to unlock the potential of the USB4 ecosystem.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

Strong expertise in C and C++ programming languages.
Strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, with expertise in operating
systems and device driver models.
Bachelors degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering, or equivalent
experience/skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Expertise in Thunderbolt and/or USB4.
Expertise in related technologies, e.g. USB, USB-C, USB-PD, DisplayPort, and/or PCI.
2+ years of relevant industry experience in software development.
Development experience in IOKit/macOS/iOS, or equivalent OS driver environment.
Experience debugging and contributing to complex technology stacks.
Experience using logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, or oscilloscopes for data collection and
debugging.
Self-motivated and able to work independently.

Pay & Benefits — Cupertino, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $150,400 and $277,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

Apple

About the company

Apple

Large Enterprise

Apple Inc. is a global technology company known for its innovative products and services, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, and Apple Watch. Founded in 1976, Apple has continuously pushed the boundaries of design and functionality, earning a reputation for high-quality consumer electronics and software solutions like iOS and macOS. With a strong commitment to user experience and privacy, Apple also leads in digital services, offering platforms such as the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud. The company's focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility further enhances its standing as a leader in the technology sector.