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Internship Kernel Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jump Trading

Campus FPGA Engineer (Intern)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250K/yr

Previous internship experience in hardware or low-level software engineering * Experience with C, C ... Linux kernel and driver programming * Robotics, Telecommunications, or High Speed Networking

All JobsKernel Developer JobsInternship Kernel Developer JobsInternship Kernel Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Internship Kernel Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$23

$40

How much do internship kernel developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship kernel developer in Chicago, IL is $23.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 kinds of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an Internship Kernel Developer?

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.

What are Internship Kernel Developers?

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 the most commonly searched types of Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Internship Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Internship Kernel Developer job openings:
Internship Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Kernel Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,056 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer - Yocto platform

Senior Software Engineer - Yocto platform

FEV North America, Inc

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$123K - $163K/yr

Contractor

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Contract
Description
FEV North America, Inc. is seeking a Senior Software Engineer, you will be responsible for ensuring overall form, fit, and function of new or current products when integrated into a single, complete system.
Key responsibilities:
  • Develop and Maintain Yocto Builds: Create and customize Yocto-based embedded Linux distributions, including writing and maintaining recipes, layers, and configuration files.
  • System Integration: Integrate hardware and software components, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance for embedded systems.
  • Kernel and Driver Development: Customize Linux kernels and develop device drivers to support specific hardware platforms.
  • Optimization and Debugging: Optimize system performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure stability and reliability of Linux-based platforms.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with hardware engineers, application developers, and QA teams to deliver end to-end solutions.
  • Documentation: Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation for build processes, configurations, and system designs.
  • Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on Yocto advancements, Linux kernel updates, and industry best practices to enhance platform capabilities.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical field with 4 years of software engineering experience (relevant research work and internships considered as experience)
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
  • Knowledge of security practices for embedded Linux systems.
  • Contributions to open-source projects related to Yocto or Linux.

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities

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