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Embedded Linux Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OLogic, Inc.

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Embedded Linux Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

As an Embedded Linux Software Engineer, you would get to work on software builds, device drivers, and low-level systems architecture using Yocto Linux, CMake, C, C++., and more. In addition, you will ...

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$82.9K

$133.1K

$187K

How much do embedded linux engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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.

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Embedded Linux Engineer jobs near you
Lead Embedded Linux Engineer - Intercom

Lead Embedded Linux Engineer - Intercom

Verkada

San Mateo, CA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

About the Role

We are a small, dynamic team focused on building intelligent cloud-managed Intercom systems. Intercom is our second newest major product line and is off to the best start of any product in Verkada's history. Our Intercom allows customers to receive calls from anywhere - at their desk or on their phone - with rich video and 2-way audio.  And we have a lot more to build.
We consider our team a startup within a startup, with a large amount of ownership and autonomy. You'll be working alongside a dynamic team of firmware, backend, and frontend engineers to develop this product line.

What You'll Do
  • Excited by new products, startups, and delivering real customer value
  • You develop a vision for the future, and set the technical architecture for an entire product line
  • You think about delivering best-in-class products and experiences - not features
  • You can take a less-than-fully-fleshed-out product idea and drive it to completion
  • Self-motivated problem solver: At Verkada, you will tackle large, complex problems with no clear answers.
  • Teach and learn: You will learn new technologies while being entrusted with the technical ownership of major systems, and we hope to learn something from you in turn.
  • Growth mindset: As a fast-growing startup, every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, and we want you to grow with us!
What You Bring
  • BS or a graduate degree in Computer Science, Maths, Engineering, or science
  • 10+ years of experience working on Linux development as a Software Engineer.
  • Proficient in C/C++
  • Familiar with Linux servers, Linux device drivers, Linux kernel patches, secure operating systems and security focused programming.
  • Preferred experience working with embedded Linux, cameras, and audio systems
  • Bash scripting experience
  • Experience with Yocto
  • Familiarity with Secure Boot
  • Familiarity with Go and Python.
  • Familiarity with WebRTC
  • Experience working with Distributed Systems
  • Understanding of HTTP and practical debugging techniques
  • Must be willing and able to work onsite five days per week
  • Must be willing to travel internationally 2x a year
US Employee Benefits

Verkada is committed to fostering a workplace environment that prioritizes the holistic health and wellbeing of our employees and their families by offering comprehensive wellness perks, benefits, and resources. Our benefits and perks programs include, but are not limited to:

  • Healthcare programs that can be tailored to meet the personal health and financial well-being needs - Premiums are 100% covered for the employee under at least one plan and 80% for family premiums under all plans
  • Nationwide medical, vision and dental coverage
  • Health Saving Account (HSA) with annual employer contributions and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with tax saving options
  • Expanded mental health support
  • Paid parental leave policy & fertility benefits
  • Time off to relax and recharge through our paid holidays, firmwide extended holidays, flexible PTO and personal sick time
  • Professional development stipend
  • Fertility Stipend
  • Wellness/fitness benefits
  • Healthy lunches provided daily
  • Commuter benefits
Additional Information 
  • We do sponsor and take over sponsorship of employment visas for this role. If we make you an offer, we will make every reasonable effort to get you a visa.

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