Software Engineer – Threat Protection; C++

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced C++ Software Engineer to join our engineering team. As part of the Windows Antimalware Team, you will build high-quality Windows threat protection software that is delivered in our flagship McAfee products. Reporting to the Software Engineering Manager, this team delivers software that keeps our customers’ machines free from harmful malware and potentially unwanted programs.

This is a Hybrid Position located in either Waterloo or Toronto, Canada. Candidates must be within a commutable distance to either location. You will be required to be onsite on an as‑needed basis; when not working onsite, you will work from your home office.

• Develop and debug Windows user mode software in a collaborative environment using secure software development practices.
• Drive the architecture and design of new threat protection features and capabilities.
• Build software that interacts with Windows system components such as processes, services, registry, file system objects, and system configuration.
• Use telemetry, logs, crash data, and data analysis to investigate in-field customer issues and improve product behavior.
• Triage and resolve complex defects using a variety of Windows debugging tools and techniques.
• Work across the software development lifecycle, from design and implementation to validation and operational improvement.
• Collaborate with teammates across engineering disciplines to break down work, review code, and deliver high-quality solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a strong engineering culture.

• Your background includes 4+ years of experience in C++ software development including design, development, code review and defect investigation.
• You are highly proficient in modern C++, multithreading, IPC and system programming.
• You have strong debugging skills using tools such as Visual Studio and WinDBG.
• You can investigate and triage system state issues using logs, telemetry, crash data, and Windows diagnostic tools.
• Experience working with Windows APIs related to process control, services, registry, file system operations, and system configuration.
• Experience using AI coding tools for assisted and/or agentic software development.
• You can analyze data using SQL or Python.
• You like working on a team and have excellent communication skills.
• Kernel debugging analysis is a bonus.
• Experience with data analysis using Databricks is a bonus.
• Analyzing performance using Windows performance analysis tools is a bonus.

McAfee is a leader in personal security for consumers. Focused on protecting people, not just devices, McAfee consumer solutions adapt to users’ needs in an always online world, empowering them to live securely through integrated, intuitive solutions that protects their families and communities with the right security at the right moment.

We work hard to embrace diversity and inclusion and encourage everyone at McAfee to bring their authentic selves to work every day. We’re proud to be Great Place to Work Certified in 10 countries, a reflection of the supportive, empowering environment we’ve built where people feel seen, valued, and energized to reach their full potential and thrive.

We offer a variety of social programs, flexible work hours and family‑friendly benefits to all of our employees.

• Bonus Program
• Pension and Retirement Plans
• Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Support for Community Involvement

We are serious about our commitment to diversity which is why McAfee prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other legally protected status.

The starting pay range for this position is $-$. McAfee takes into consideration an individual’s skillset, experience and location in making final salary determinations. For further details, please discuss with the Talent Acquisition Partner.