Historical snapshotmid (2–5 yrs)Captured Oct 18, 2026, 1:09 a.m.

Security Software Engineer, OS Security, SEAR

Apple

Location
Cupertino, California, United States · Onsite
Compensation
$129,300 - $225,300 USD annually
Employment
Full-time
Experience level
MID (2–5 years exp)
Specialization
Security Software Engineer
Source
Apple

Role Overview

Apple’s OS Security team is looking for a motivated software engineer to design, build, and deploy world-class containment and isolation mechanisms throughout our operating systems. As part of the Security Engineering and Architecture group, you will develop the foundational technologies—including compartmentalization, mandatory access control, and robust policy engines—that ensure our platforms are resilient and never just one mistake away from compromise. Our goal is for users to feel confident that our devices have their back every time they interact with an Apple product.

Responsibilities

In this hands-on software engineering role, you will design robust software systems and craft secure, high-performance code, collaborating across the company with everyone from our Silicon Engineering group to our Human Interface designers. We build technology deep within macOS and iOS internals, but we also lift it up through the software stack, creating ergonomic APIs that connect world-class security engineering directly to developers and users. You will have the autonomy to invest your time into the most promising areas of research and development, seeing your work scale to protect millions of people in their daily lives. Come help us push the boundaries of pragmatic, user-focused security.

Requirements & Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

BS in Computer Science or equivalent experience/skills in systems programming and security. Strong C and low-level systems programming skills. Understanding of operating system internals (macOS, iOS, BSD, or Linux). Ability to navigate and understand code up and down the software stack (comfortable diving into kernel, low-level userland, framework, and application code).

Familiarity with past, current, and emerging security exploits and mitigation techniques.

Demonstrated readiness to balance concurrent priorities, manage technical debt, and deliver on tight schedules.

Excellent partnership and communication skills to collaborate with a broad range of engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications

Exposure to iOS and macOS (end user, administrator, and/or developer). Involvement in open source technologies and development communities such as FreeBSD and Linux. Real world kernel and/or hypervisor programming experience. Experience designing and implementing security policy languages.

Compensation & Benefits

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 $129,300 and $225,300, 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 Instructions

Apply directly on Apple Jobs at Security Software Engineer, OS Security, SEAR.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant