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Embedded Linux Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview We are hiring an Embedded Linux Engineering Lead to lead embedded Linux development for custom hardware products. This is a player/coach role with an expected split of roughly 50 ...

HawkEye 360 is seeking a Principal Embedded Linux Engineer to advance our next-generation spacecraft payload platforms. The Software Team's mission is to design, build, and test embedded Linux ...

Overview#LI-RM1 Unete a Expleo! | Senior Embedded Linux Developer (Yocto & BSP) Ubicacion: Barcelona - Bac de Roda Idioma: Ingles profesional Quienes somos? En Expleo Iberia , formamos parte de un ...

#LI-RM1 ¡Únete a Expleo! | Senior Embedded Linux Developer (Yocto & BSP) Ubicación: Barcelona - Bac de Roda Idioma: Inglés profesional ¿Quiénes somos? En Expleo Iberia , formamos parte de un ...

Futurex embedded Linux software engineers will have opportunities to work with advanced cryptographic systems at all layers of an embedded Linux operating system such as boot loaders, kernel drivers ...

Futurex embedded Linux software engineers will have opportunities to work with advanced cryptographic systems at all layers of an embedded Linux operating system such as boot loaders, kernel drivers ...

Preferred: * Experience with "Modern DevOps" (Containerized build environments, GitLab CI, or ... in Embedded Linux or Systems Engineering. * Demonstrated experience shipping and maintaining a ...

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Embedded Linux Developer information

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$85.5K

$110.4K

$137.5K

How much do embedded linux developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux developer in the United States is $110,439.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Embedded Linux Developers?

Embedded Linux Developers are software engineers who specialize in designing, developing, and maintaining software for embedded systems that run on the Linux operating system. These professionals work on devices such as routers, IoT devices, automotive systems, and industrial machines, integrating Linux-based solutions tailored to hardware constraints. Their responsibilities include configuring the Linux kernel, developing device drivers, optimizing system performance, and ensuring reliable communication between hardware and software components. They must be proficient in C/C++, scripting, and have a strong understanding of Linux internals and embedded hardware.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Linux Developers when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Linux Developers often encounter challenges such as managing hardware-software compatibility, optimizing system performance, and troubleshooting driver issues. Working closely with hardware engineers, they must ensure that the Linux kernel and device drivers are correctly configured to communicate with custom hardware. Debugging can be complex due to limited system resources and the need for real-time performance. Effective collaboration and strong problem-solving skills are essential for resolving these integration challenges.

Who earns more, VLSI or embedded?

Embedded Linux developers typically earn less than VLSI engineers, as VLSI involves specialized hardware design and often requires advanced skills in semiconductor technology, which command higher salaries. VLSI roles usually offer higher compensation due to the complexity and demand for expertise in chip design and fabrication, while embedded Linux roles focus on software development for embedded systems with generally lower salary ranges.

What is the difference between Embedded Linux Developer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Linux DeveloperFirmware Engineer
Required SkillsProficiency in Linux kernel, C/C++, embedded systems, device driversLow-level programming, C/C++, microcontrollers, hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentEmbedded Linux systems, development boards, Linux-based OSMicrocontrollers, hardware prototyping, real-time systems
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, IoT devices, automotiveConsumer electronics, aerospace, industrial equipment

Embedded Linux Developers focus on developing software for Linux-based embedded systems, working with Linux kernels and device drivers. Firmware Engineers work on low-level hardware programming, often with microcontrollers and real-time systems. While both roles require C/C++ skills and embedded systems knowledge, Embedded Linux Developers typically work in Linux environments, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-level programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Linux Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Linux Developer, you need a solid understanding of Linux internals, C/C++ programming, and embedded systems architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or electrical engineering. Familiarity with build systems (like Yocto or Buildroot), version control (Git), and debugging tools (GDB, oscilloscope) is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set outstanding developers apart in this role. These abilities ensure reliable, efficient embedded solutions that meet complex technical requirements and integrate seamlessly into larger systems.

Is embedded systems still a good career in 2026?

Embedded Linux development remains a strong career in 2026 due to the continued growth of IoT, automotive, and industrial automation sectors that rely on embedded systems. Skilled developers with knowledge of Linux, C/C++, and hardware interfaces are in demand, and the field offers opportunities for specialization and advancement.

How to become an embedded Linux developer?

To become an embedded Linux developer, you should have a strong understanding of Linux operating systems, experience with C and C++ programming, and knowledge of hardware interfaces and embedded systems. Gaining hands-on experience through projects, learning about cross-compilation, and familiarizing yourself with tools like Yocto or Buildroot are also important. Certifications or training in embedded systems can further enhance your qualifications.

Is learning embedded Linux worth it?

For an Embedded Linux Developer, learning embedded Linux is valuable because it is widely used in IoT devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. Gaining skills in Linux kernel development, device drivers, and tools like Yocto can enhance job prospects and technical expertise in embedded systems. Proficiency in C programming and understanding hardware interfaces are also important for success in this field.

What Does an Embedded Linux Developer Do?

As an embedded Linux developer, your duties and responsibilities are to design, test, implement, and integrate software solutions for specific pieces of hardware. Embedded technology often refers to hardware that is not commonly considered a computer, but is controlled by applications or an operating system, such as Linux. These include watches, car engines, and televisions, for example. As an embedded Linux developer, you work closely with programmers, optimization experts, quality assurance technicians, and product engineering designers, as well as all of your external customers.

What cities are hiring for Embedded Linux Developer jobs? Cities with the most Embedded Linux Developer job openings:
What states have the most Embedded Linux Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Embedded Linux Developer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Embedded Linux Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,439 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
Mandatory Skills:
Engineer with 6+ Yrs of experience in embedded Linux driver/kernel development.
Strong C development skills.
Experience with any one of the driver development domain
Graphics driver - DRM/KMS, OpenGL, Vulkan, OpenCL, Mesa.
Multi Media-Video driver - Vaapi, vdpau, gstreamer, v4l2.
Power management - System to RAM, S0ix3.
Display Driver development - X, Wayland, Weston, Display driver
Experience with Audio sub-system, Audio drivers's, frameworks and ALSA SOC(ASOC), Audio protocols like I2S/TDM.
Proficient in Yocto development.
Virtualization - Xen, KVM, QNX hypervisor knowledge.
Ethernet Driver - Network driver development.
Good working experience with IPC, DMA driver development.
Experience with kernel mode driver programming in Linux
Linux Device driver programming experience in Linux Kernel and Drivers.
Experience dealing with Linux community and Open Source contribution a plus
System knowledge, System Debugging
Keywords: Linux Kernel Driver, device driver, Linux Graphics Driver, DRM/KMS, Video driver, Vaapi, V4L2, Audio DSP, I2S/TDM, Ethernet Driver, Virtualization, Vulkan, Mesa, OpenCL, OpenGL, RTOS