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Intern Linux Kernel Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Key Responsibilities - Linux Kernel Development Design, implement, and maintain enhancements to the Linux kernel, including subsystems such as memory management, storage, networking, and device ...

Key Responsibilities - Linux Kernel Development • Design, implement, and maintain enhancements to the Linux kernel, including subsystems such as memory management, storage, networking, and device ...

Quantitative Software Developer Intern

Paris, NY · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Linux kernel development, compilers, embedded systems, networking, file systems, debuggers) * In-depth understanding of how userland programs run on Linux and interact with the kernel * Some basic ...

Quantitative Software Developer Intern

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Linux kernel development, compilers, embedded systems, networking, file systems, debuggers) * In-depth understanding of how userland programs run on Linux and interact with the kernel * Some basic ...

Quantitative Software Developer Intern

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

Linux kernel development, compilers, embedded systems, networking, file systems, debuggers) * In-depth understanding of how userland programs run on Linux and interact with the kernel * Some basic ...

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Intern Linux Kernel Development information

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$8

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How much do intern linux kernel development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern linux kernel development in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intern in Linux Kernel Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern in Linux Kernel Development, you need a solid understanding of C programming, operating system concepts, and familiarity with Linux environments, often supported by coursework or relevant projects. Experience with version control systems like Git and tools such as GDB for debugging, as well as basic knowledge of kernel build systems, is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and proactive communication help interns stand out in collaborative and technically complex settings. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively contributing to kernel codebases, troubleshooting issues, and learning from experienced developers in a challenging open-source environment.

What are some common challenges faced by interns in Linux Kernel Development roles?

Interns in Linux Kernel Development often encounter challenges such as understanding the vast and complex codebase, adhering to strict coding and documentation standards, and navigating the kernel community’s review processes. It's common to spend significant time learning about kernel subsystems and debugging intricate issues. Collaborating with experienced developers and actively engaging in mailing lists can help interns overcome these hurdles and grow their technical and communication skills.

What does an Intern Linux Kernel Development do?

An Intern in Linux Kernel Development assists in developing, testing, and debugging components of the Linux kernel. Their responsibilities typically include writing kernel code, fixing bugs, submitting patches, and collaborating with senior developers. Interns may also work on documentation and learn about the kernel development workflow, tools, and community practices. This role provides hands-on experience with low-level programming and open-source software development.
More about Intern Linux Kernel Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Intern Linux Kernel Development jobs? Cities with the most Intern Linux Kernel Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Development jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs are:
What states have the most Intern Linux Kernel Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Intern Linux Kernel Development jobs include:
Infographic showing various Intern Linux Kernel Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Internship, 53% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.
Linux Kernel Senior/Lead Software Engineer

Linux Kernel Senior/Lead Software Engineer

Arista Networks

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges.
At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation.
Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.
Job Description
Who You'll Work With
Arista's Linux Kernel team is responsible for developing and maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS. This includes keeping pace with the latest developments in the upstream Linux Kernel community, and integrating new versions of the upstream kernel as they become available. This work also involves designing and implementing new Linux kernel features, and working with the upstream kernel development community to get these changes incorporated into the mainline Linux kernel code base.
Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU vendors to integrate their kernel support into EOS. You will also help to bring-up and qualify new CPUs in our hardware products.
Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Linux Kernel software, your work will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.
What You'll Do
  • Track ongoing developments in the Linux Kernel and identify features and functionality of interest to Arista for our products and for internal development needs.
  • Develop and maintain EOS Kernel features and tests using C, C++ and Python, review and contribute to functional and design specifications. Build automated tests and test infrastructure to validate the features.
  • Work with hardware engineers and vendors to qualify new Kernel dependent hardware components like CPUs and NICs for integration into Arista products.
  • Work with the Kernel community to contribute features back to the mainline.
  • Work with a team of Kernel engineers to integrate new versions of the Kernel for use in EOS and our internal development.
  • Provide technical leadership across features, projects and tools.
  • Work with Customer Support Engineers and customers to analyze, mitigate and fix problems in customer networks.
  • Work with the System Test Engineers to analyze problems found in their tests and provide fixes for those problems.
  • Mentor new and junior engineers to bring them up to speed in Arista's software development environment.

Qualifications
  • BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 8 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 6 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 3 years experience, or equivalent work experience
  • Expert knowledge of and extensive experience programming in C required. Knowledge of C++ and Python is desirable.
  • Significant hands-on experience troubleshooting issues, fixing bugs and developing features in the Linux kernel.
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture, design and implementation.
  • Familiarity with the upstream Linux community's patching process and procedures.
  • Understanding of IP networking architecture, design and principles
  • Applied understanding of modern software engineering principles and practices
  • Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong software design and implementation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in small teams.
  • Ability to communicate articulately, and document your designs and implementations clearly, and concisely.
  • Familiarity with the x86 and ARM CPU architectures

Compensation Information
The new hire base pay for this role has a pay range of $140,000 to $210,000.
Arista offers different pay ranges based on work location, so that we can offer consistent and competitive pay appropriate to the market. The actual base pay offered will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, relevant experience, and work location.
The pay range provided reflects base pay only and in addition certain roles may also be eligible for discretionary Arista bonuses and equity. Employees in Sales roles are eligible to participate in Arista's Sales Incentive Plan, which pays commissions calculated as a percentage of eligible sales. US-based employees are also entitled to benefits including medical, dental, vision, wellbeing, tax savings and income protection. The recruiting team can share more details during the hiring process specific to the role and location.
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Additional Information
Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.