Software Engineer, Trusted Execution (Secure Boot)

Apple; Cupertino (CA); On-site; USD 143,000 - 265,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company seeks a Software Engineer for its Trusted Execution team, focusing on developing cutting-edge security technologies. This role involves defining security measures for operating systems and collaborating with various teams to enhance user safety and privacy. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in systems programming, a strong grasp of OS internals, and a passion for security. Join a dynamic environment that fosters creativity and rapid iteration, making a significant impact in the realm of security technology.

Benefits

Stock Programs

Medical Coverage

Dental Coverage

Retirement Benefits

Educational Reimbursement

Discounts

Relocation Support

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in software engineering focused on systems programming.
• Strong understanding of OS security and cryptographic principles.

Responsibilities

• Define security properties and architecture for upcoming operating systems.
• Collaborate with teams to enhance security technologies and user experience.

Skills

C Programming

Systems Programming

Kernel Development

Operating Systems Internals

Applied Cryptography

Job description

Software Engineer, Trusted Execution (Secure Boot)

Location: Cupertino, California, United States

Department: Software and Services

Summary

Apple’s Trusted Execution team in the Security Engineering and Architecture organization develops technology to ensure user safety and security. Our software operates at the core of all our products, serving as the first line of defense in Apple’s security strategy. We are a small team with a significant impact.

As a team member, you will contribute to the entire system, working directly with Apple’s CPU features, kernel, libraries, frameworks, and applications. You will define, design, and implement new security technologies for Apple’s next-generation operating systems and products. Candidates should be capable of tackling diverse engineering challenges across the software stack, balancing ease of use, performance, and security. We foster innovation, rapid iteration, and autonomy, encouraging you to develop and deploy new security methods quickly. The role involves collaboration across various teams within and outside Apple. We welcome applicants with an interest or background in this field.

Description

Your role involves defining security properties and architecture for upcoming operating systems, designing and implementing security measures for device boot flow, OS asset authentication, code signing, execution monitoring, and malware mitigation. The goal is to protect users while enhancing platform richness, security, and privacy, all while maintaining user experience quality. You will collaborate with other Apple teams to improve security technologies and promote their adoption across the organization.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer in Systems Programming or Kernel Development
• Strong understanding of operating systems internals
• Knowledge of OS security and applied cryptography (PKI, Attestations, Public Key Signatures)
• Excellent C and systems programming skills, including secure development practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for developing effective security technologies in operating systems
• Experience with constrained runtime environments such as system boot, EFI, firmware, embedded OS, or real-time OS
• Ability to mentor teams lacking security expertise
• Skill in analyzing security properties via threat models
• Understanding of security exploits (past, current, emerging)
• Proven ability to deliver work on tight schedules
• Strong collaboration skills

Pay & Benefits

Base pay ranges from $143,100 to $264,200, depending on skills, experience, and location. Apple offers stock programs, medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, discounts, educational reimbursement, and potential bonuses or relocation support. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Benefits and compensation are subject to eligibility and plan terms.

Equal Opportunity & Additional Information

Apple is committed to diversity and inclusion, promoting equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights.

Apple participates in E-Verify in certain locations (Learn more) and provides reasonable accommodations for disabilities. We are a drug-free workplace and consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, respecting applicable laws, including the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and Massachusetts laws regarding lie detector tests.