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Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

AMD

Senior Linux Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

... Linux kernel and virtualization debugging skills • Linux feature backporting and upstreaming ... • Solid programming skills in Python, C, or C++ Company : Advanced Micro Devices is a ...

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 ...

Zealogics.com

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

HPC Rack, Build, cable, configure, and provision Linux kernel, windows server. * HPC Operating ... Programming language: Python, Shell * Virtualization and containerization * Computer network

Insilico

Linux Automotive Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Linux Automotive Engineer Location: San Diego, CA Duration: 6+ Months You will be joining ... Experience in bootloaders,Linux kernel and driver architecture is a plus * Experience in Multimedia ...

Insilico

Linux Automotive Engineer

San Diego, CA

Linux Automotive Engineer Location: San Diego, CA Duration: 6+ Months You will be joining ... Experience in bootloaders,Linux kernel and driver architecture is a plus * Experience in Multimedia ...

RIIM

C++ Developer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$48 - $64.75/hr

In-depth knowledge of Linux kernel networking subsystems. * Experience with TCP/IP, UDP, IPsec, and other networking protocols. * Familiarity with socket programming and network socket APIs.

OpenAI

Host Systems Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$266K - $445K/yr

You will work close to the hardware on performance-critical software, including Linux kernel ... Strong programming skills in C or C++, with proficiency using Python and Linux tooling for ...

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Entry Level Linux Kernel Developer information

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

As of Jul 16, 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:
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,265 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

Chipton Ross

Owego, NY • On-site

$80/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job #217683
Chipton-Ross is seeking a Software Engineer for a contract hybrid position in Owego, NY.
REQUIREMENTS
  • Minimum 2 years of professional experience developing, building, and debugging Linux kernel modules (C language, kbuild/DKMS).
  • Strong knowledge of core Linux internals (process scheduling, memory management, synchronization primitives).
  • Proficient in systems level C programming and familiar with kernel coding style and static analysis tools.
  • Demonstrated understanding of secure coding practices for kernel space (avoid leaks, race conditions, proper error handling).
  • Experience working with SELinux/AppArmor or similar LSM frameworks in a production environment.
  • Active Secret security clearance.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills; proven ability to produce clear design documentation and work within cross functional teams.

RESPONSIBILITIES
We are seeking a senior level Linux kernel engineer to design and implement a kernel level solution that intercepts VFS read/write operations, pins user memory pages, builds scatter gather DMA tables, and offloads the data to a cryptographic accelerator (hardware engine or user space process). The engineer will collaborate with hardware, security, and software teams to deliver a stable, high performance, and secure off load path that complies with Lockheed?Martin coding standards and regulatory requirements.
DESIRED
  • VFS & kprobe/kretprobe - Implemented handlers for vfs_read, vfs_write, or similar VFS entry points.
  • Page pinning & Memory Management - Used pin_user_pages_fast, get_user_pages, and managed pin count cleanup.
  • Scatter Gather / DMA engine - Built and populated struct sg_table / struct scatterlist; interfaced with dma_map_sg / dma_unmap_sg.
  • Linux Crypto API - Registered and used symmetric/asymmetric algorithms via the Crypto API, including async request handling.
  • Kernel Key Management - Managed cryptographic keys with the kernel keyring (keyctl, request_key) or integrated external KMS/HSM.
  • User Space Communication - Designed netlink, character device, ioctl, or shared memory interfaces for status updates and key exchange.
  • Testing & Profiling - Created kernel module unit tests (kselftest/kunit), used perf, ftrace, bpftrace for latency/performance analysis.
  • Hardware Crypto Offload - Experience with Intel QAT, ARM TrustZone, FPGA based accelerators, or similar off load engines.
  • Up stream Contributions - Submitted patches accepted to VFS, Crypto, DMA engine, or related subsystems.
  • Trusted Execution Environments / Secure Enclaves - Worked with OP TEE, Intel SGX, or comparable TEEs.
  • DPDK or High Performance User Space I/O - Familiarity with DPDK or similar frameworks for user space data paths.
  • Certifications - Linux Foundation Certified Engineer (LFCE), CISSP, GSEC, or specialized hardware security training.
  • Regulated Industry Experience - Prior work on aerospace, defense, or ITAR controlled projects with required documentation and audit practices.

SHIFT
4/10 - 1st
EDUCATION
HS/GED
MISCELLANEOUS
Active Secret Clearance Required
HYB
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Applicants responding to this position will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements by currently possessing the ability to view classified government information.
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Zachary Fasano 800.927.9318 x252
zfasano@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.
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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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