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Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Futurex

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Bulverde, TX · On-site

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 Engineer

Bulverde, TX · On-site

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 ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Qualifications Additional Information All your ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Additional Information All your information will be ...

Canonical

Linux Devices Software Engineer

Responsibilities : • Ubuntu Core and snapd software development • Silicon software and optimisation engineers • Kernel driver and hardware enablement engineers • Hardware-centric Linux QA ...

Chipton Ross

Software Engineer

Owego, NY · On-site

$80/hr

Minimum 2 years of professional experience developing, building, and debugging Linux kernel modules ... Proficient in systems level C programming and familiar with kernel coding style and static analysis ...

Redolent, Inc.

Embedded SW Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Provide minimal hardware initialization for Linux kernel boot. BSP & Board Bring-Up Develop and ... Collaboration & Documentation Work with hardware, PaaS, and DevOps teams to align low-level ...

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All JobsEntry Level Linux Kernel Developer Jobs

Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer information

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$29.5K

$100.3K

$241.5K

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 Developer (TS/SCI w POLY)

Falls Technology

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary: 100-160k

TS/SCI w POLY Required


**About the Role:** Seeking Linux Developers to create and maintain system-level software for Linux environments. This role involves cross-platform work across various architectures in support of dynamic projects.

**Required Qualifications:**

- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

- At least 3 years of professional software development experience, including design, implementation, testing, analysis, and debugging.

- Demonstrated experience using software configuration management tools (e.g., Git).

- Software systems development experience and understanding of OS internals in at least one of: BSD/Linux/Unix, Windows, Mac OS, Android, or RISC assembly.

- At least 3 years of experience developing, testing, and debugging in C, C++, and Python.

- At least 3 years of demonstrated experience developing, testing, and debugging system-level software for Linux (kernel development experience desired).

- Demonstrated in-depth understanding of low-level system development for Linux/Unix internals and APIs.

- Demonstrated experience working in a cross-platform environment, with experience in x86/x64, ARM, and/or MIPS architectures.

- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances.

**Desired Qualifications:**

- Ability to reverse engineer (RE) code.

- Experience working independently and in teams in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

- Undergraduate or graduate degree or certifications in a relevant technical field.

- Demonstrated experience utilizing a diversity of development languages.

- In-depth understanding and/or implementation of CNE techniques and methodologies, including application and mitigation for BSD/Linux/Unix, Windows, Mac OS, Android, or RISC assembly.

- Experience applying continuous integration and automated testing tools to software development practices.

- Experience with firewalls, standard operating systems features, and PSPs.

- At least 3 years of experience developing and testing applications on Windows, Mac, Linux, Mobile, or Embedded platforms.





TS/SCI w POLY Required