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Embedded Linux Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Linux Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Experience developing embedded Linux systems using Yocto, buildroot, or similar systems * Familiarity with packaging CUDA libraries and applications * Familiarity with functional programming ...

Embedded Linux Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Experience developing embedded Linux systems using Yocto, buildroot, or similar systems * Familiarity with packaging CUDA libraries and applications * Familiarity with functional programming ...

Embedded Linux Engineer - Philips Hue

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$155K - $203K/yr

More about the role This is an exciting job opportunity for you as an Embedded Linux Engineer in Menlo Park, California, with Signify, the world leader in lighting. Want to work on the world ...

Senior Embedded Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA

$141K - $185K/yr

... Linux development as a Software Engineer. * Proficient in C/C++ * Preferred experience working with embedded Linux, cameras, and audio systems * Expertise with Yocto, Bash * Familiar with Linux ...

Based in Irvine, CA, we are seeking highly passionate, skilled and experienced Embedded Software Engineers with expertise in Linux BSP, device driver development, and debugging to join our dynamic ...

Senior Embedded Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$141K - $185K/yr

... Linux development as a Software Engineer. * Proficient in C/C++ * Preferred experience working with embedded Linux, cameras, and audio systems * Expertise with Yocto, Bash * Familiar with Linux ...

Based in Irvine, CA, we are seeking highly passionate, skilled and experienced Embedded Software Engineers with expertise in Linux BSP, device driver development, and debugging to join our dynamic ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Linux Engineer information

See California salary details

$82.9K

$133.1K

$187K

How much do embedded linux engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded linux engineer in California is $133,112.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $158,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEmbedded Linux EngineerFirmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; Linux certifications beneficialBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related; embedded systems certifications helpful
Work EnvironmentDevelops and maintains Linux-based embedded systems, often in hardware labs or development teamsDesigns low-level firmware for microcontrollers or hardware, typically in hardware or R&D labs
Industry UsageUsed in IoT devices, consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial systemsCommon in consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment

Embedded Linux Engineers focus on developing and maintaining Linux-based embedded systems, while Firmware Engineers work on low-level firmware for microcontrollers. Both roles require embedded systems knowledge but differ in platform focus and complexity.

What does an Embedded Linux Engineer do?

An Embedded Linux Engineer is responsible for developing, configuring, and maintaining Linux-based operating systems for embedded devices such as routers, IoT gadgets, automotive systems, and industrial controllers. They work on customizing the Linux kernel, developing device drivers, optimizing system performance, and integrating software applications with hardware. Their role often includes troubleshooting system issues, ensuring security, and supporting cross-functional teams in bringing products from concept to production. Strong programming skills in C/C++, understanding of hardware interfaces, and experience with build systems like Yocto or Buildroot are essential for this position.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Linux Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering, proficiency in C/C++ programming, and experience with Linux kernel and device driver development. Familiarity with tools like Git, Yocto, Buildroot, and debugging systems such as GDB is typically required, along with knowledge of real-time operating systems (RTOS). Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for developing reliable embedded systems, ensuring robust product performance, and facilitating efficient teamwork in complex projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Embedded Linux Engineers when integrating new hardware components?

Embedded Linux Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring hardware compatibility, developing or modifying device drivers, and optimizing system performance when integrating new hardware components. Debugging hardware-software interactions can be complex due to limited diagnostic tools and varying documentation quality. Additionally, engineers must frequently collaborate with hardware teams to resolve timing or communication issues, making strong cross-functional communication skills essential for success in this role.

What Does an Embedded Linux Engineer Do?

The job duties of an embedded Linux engineer revolve around working to develop software and firmware for various devices and computer systems. In this career, you work on products like smart TVs, navigation devices, networking equipment, medical instruments, industrial systems, mobile phones, and other embedded systems that use Linux. In addition to writing and testing code for Linux-based device development, you may work to fix problems with existing systems that use a Linux platform or integrate new software into existing systems.

What job categories do people searching Embedded Linux Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Linux Engineer jobs in California are:
Embedded Linux Engineer

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Re-posted 28 days ago


Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 71,359 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM
Our DeviceOS team develops the operating system that powers Anduril's robots. As a member of the DeviceOS team you will build Anduril's platform for running software on Anduril's robotics systems. Your software will be deployed on robots operating on land, sea, and air. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of software development projects including design, implementation, automated testing, field testing, and deployment support.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Board bring-up and maintenance on embedded ARM boards (device trees, bootloaders, kernel drivers, etc)
  • Customize vendor BSPs for use with NixOS systems
  • Help secure our embedded Linux systems
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Familiarity with triaging vulnerability reports and mitigating vulnerabilities by patching system components.
  • Experience with Linux kernel development
  • Experience with uboot, EDK2, platform firmware, etc
  • Interest in using Nix/NixOS as an alternative to Yocto, buildroot, etc
  • Experience with C or Rust
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience developing embedded Linux systems using Yocto, buildroot, or similar systems
  • Familiarity with packaging CUDA libraries and applications
  • Familiarity with functional programming paradigms
  • Experience with one or more of the following languages: C++, Python, Go, Haskell

Working at Anduril


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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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