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Internship Kernel Developer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Senior Deep Learning Compiler Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

GPU kernel generation with high performance and fast build time. * A track record of success in mentoring junior engineers and interns is a bonus. With highly competitive salaries and a comprehensive ...

Internship Kernel Developer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$11

$22

$39

How much do internship kernel developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship kernel developer in Austin, TX is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do internship kernel developers make?

Internship kernel developers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on the location, company, and level of experience. Compensation may also include stipends or academic credit, and internships often require familiarity with C programming and Linux kernel development tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship kernel developer?

To thrive as an Internship Kernel Developer, you need a solid understanding of operating systems, C programming, and computer architecture, often supported by coursework or projects in systems programming. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, Linux kernel development tools, and debugging utilities is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from feedback distinguish successful candidates. These skills ensure you can contribute effectively to kernel development tasks, quickly adapt to complex system environments, and collaborate with experienced engineers.

What does an internship kernel developer do?

As an Internship Kernel Developer, you will typically assist with tasks such as debugging kernel modules, developing or improving device drivers, and contributing to the implementation of new kernel features. You may also be involved in writing and reviewing code patches, participating in code reviews, and collaborating with senior developers on performance optimization. Interns often work closely with other software engineers and may interact with hardware teams to ensure kernel compatibility and stability. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding low-level system operations and can serve as a foundation for advanced roles in systems programming.

Are Linux kernel developers in demand?

Linux kernel developers are in high demand due to the widespread use of Linux in servers, cloud infrastructure, and embedded systems. Skills in C programming, kernel architecture, and experience with open-source projects increase employability in this specialized field.

What is an internship kernel developer?

Internship Kernel Developers are students or entry-level professionals who work on the core components of an operating system, known as the kernel, during an internship. Their responsibilities often include debugging, writing, and optimizing low-level code that communicates directly with hardware. These internships are typically offered by companies or organizations involved in operating system development, and they provide hands-on experience with system programming, device drivers, and kernel modules. This role is valuable for those looking to build a career in systems software, embedded systems, or operating system development.

What is the difference between Internship Kernel Developer vs Software Engineer Intern?

AspectInternship Kernel DeveloperSoftware Engineer Intern
Required CredentialsBasic programming skills, understanding of OS concepts, possibly some coursework in computer scienceSimilar; often includes programming, data structures, and software development fundamentals
Work EnvironmentHands-on kernel development, low-level programming, working closely with OS componentsApplication development, testing, and debugging in various software projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in OS, hardware, and systems software companiesAcross tech, finance, startups, and software firms

Internship Kernel Developer roles focus on low-level OS and kernel programming, requiring knowledge of system internals. Software Engineer Intern positions are broader, covering application-level development. Both roles are valuable entry points but differ in technical depth and focus area.

What are popular job titles related to Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Austin, TX? For Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Internship Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Internship Kernel Developer job openings:

Firmware Engineer, Robotics and Surgery Engineering

Neuralink

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

$138K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

About Neuralink:
We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.
Team Description:
At Neuralink, we're engineering the future of automated surgeries, focusing on the safe and effective implantation of our groundbreaking Neuralink implant. Our team - a cross-functional mix of roboticists, engineers from various disciplines, and medical professionals - collaborates on developing a surgical flow from first principles. In this critical role, you'll straddle the cutting-edge worlds of robotics, software, and neuroscience.
Job Description and Responsibilities:
This is a new and foundational role for our team that will allow you to create new embedded systems from scratch while challenging and refining the old. As a Firmware Engineer, your responsibilities will encompass:
  • Developing and optimizing embedded software for robotic surgery applications
  • Streamlining our codebase by refining and, when necessary, retiring legacy embedded software
  • Rigorous testing and validation of software systems to meet the highest safety and reliability standards
  • Participating in peer code reviews
  • Writing drivers and applications to extend the functionality of our robotics
  • Specifying hardware and software choices as we develop future hardware platforms
  • Sharing your findings and progress with the team in a collaborative environment

Required Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated track record of success in a science or engineering field, evidenced by outstanding projects, innovations, or advanced problem-solving
  • Proven experience in software development, preferably with exposure to embedded systems

Preferred Qualifications:
Embedded Software Development:
  • 2+ years of experience with embedded systems
  • Proficient with common communication protocols (SPI, UART, I2C, etc.)
  • Comfortable/working knowledge of more advanced protocols such as PCIe, MIPI CSI/DSI, USB, and 802.3
  • Proficient in at least one embedded language such as C, C++, or Rust
  • Proficient with embedded toolchains and workflow
  • Experience building and bringing-up MCUs or FPGAs
  • Experience with embedded stacks for ARM cores
  • Experience developing on embedded Linux platforms
  • Experience with embedded Linux kernel configuration and device tree setup
  • Experience with kernel driver development
  • Experience with ARM bootloaders
  • Experience coding drivers for actuators and sensors
  • Experience with high speed data acquisition and processing

Electrical Engineering:
  • Foundational understanding of MCU architectures and peripheral integration
  • Solid knowledge in electrical engineering and DSP
  • Ability to interpret electrical schematics and datasheets, along with proficiency in using lab equipment

Expected Compensation:
The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the following range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. We also believe in aligning our employees' success with the company's long-term growth. As such, in addition to base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation (in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSU)) for all full-time employees.
Base Salary Range:
$138,000-$300,000 USD
What We Offer:
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields
  • Growth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impact
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Commuter benefits
  • Meals provided
  • Equity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • 401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hours
  • Parental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • Flexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded