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Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Description VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an ...

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an organization ...

Rubix Recruiting

Linux Kernel Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

Embedded Linux - including the build system, kernel configuration, device drivers, boot loader, device tree and filesystem, core application development, network configuration, testing * C, Python

CEDENT

Kernel Developer (eBPF)

$40 - $60/hr

Linux kernel development experience with emphasis on the network stack and its interfaces is highly desirable e.g. * Programming experience at the sockets layer, protocol layer, device layer and ...

Nwis

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

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Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer information

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$29.5K

$100.3K

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How much do entry level linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level linux kernel developer in the United States is $100,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer, you need a solid understanding of C programming, operating systems concepts, and basic computer architecture, typically supported by a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, Linux command-line tools, and knowledge of kernel debugging or build tools is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate in open-source communities help you stand out. These skills are crucial for efficiently contributing to kernel development, ensuring code quality, and working effectively within a global developer ecosystem.

What is the difference between Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer vs Entry Level Software Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Linux Kernel DeveloperEntry Level Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBasic programming skills, understanding of Linux, some C/C++ knowledgeDegree in CS or related field, programming skills in multiple languages
Work EnvironmentLinux-based systems, kernel development teams, embedded systemsVarious industries, software development teams, diverse platforms
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware manufacturers, open-source projectsTech firms, startups, enterprise software companies
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Linux Kernel Developers focus on low-level system programming, working directly with the Linux kernel, often in specialized environments. Entry Level Software Engineers have broader roles, developing applications across various platforms. While both roles require programming skills and a CS background, Linux Kernel Developers need specific knowledge of Linux internals, making their work more specialized within the open-source and embedded systems industries.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Linux Kernel Developers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level Linux Kernel Developers often encounter challenges such as navigating the vast and complex kernel codebase, adhering to strict coding standards, and understanding kernel development workflows. It's common to feel overwhelmed initially, but collaborating with experienced team members, participating in code reviews, and contributing to open-source kernel discussions can accelerate learning. Setting up an effective development and debugging environment, as well as regularly reading kernel mailing lists, helps build familiarity with both the technical and community aspects of the role.

What does an Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer do?

An Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer assists in designing, developing, and maintaining the core of the Linux operating system, known as the kernel. Their responsibilities typically include fixing bugs, writing new kernel modules, improving system performance, and collaborating with other developers to enhance features. They also review code, contribute to open-source projects, and learn from senior kernel developers. This role often requires a strong understanding of C programming, operating system concepts, and familiarity with version control systems like Git.
More about Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer jobs are:
Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 97% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,265 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Linux Kernel Developer

VAST Data

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description
VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team!
This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an organization that is in the center of the hurricane being created by the revolution in artificial intelligence.
"VAST's data management vision is the future of the market."- Forbes
VAST Data is the data platform company for the AI era. We are building the enterprise software infrastructure to capture, catalog, refine, enrich, and protect massive datasets and make them available for real-time data analysis and AI training and inference. Designed from the ground up to make AI simple to deploy and manage, VAST takes the cost and complexity out of deploying enterprise and AI infrastructure across data center, edge, and cloud.
Our success has been built through intense innovation, a customer-first mentality and a team of fearless VASTronauts who leverage their skills & experiences to make real market impact. This is an opportunity to be a key contributor at a pivotal time in our company's growth and at a pivotal point in computing history.
Requirements
VAST is building the highest-performing file system in the world. This requires innovating all the way into the Linux operating systems that require accessing data at unlimited bandwidth and low latency.
We are forming a new team focused solely on Kernel development, collaborating with the upstream community, and setting new industry standards for fast file systems.
Requirements
Linux Kernel Development Experience
System programming in C/C++.
Solid networking knowledge (OSI network layers, TCP/IP)
Python/Git- advantage
Knowledge block-level Storage/file systems - advantage
BSc/MSc degree in Computer Science, Engineering or equivalent

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