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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu Jobs in California

Senior Software Engineer, Linux Kernel

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

Work on a small team of System Software and Linux Kernel Engineers to develop system software components from early prototyping to production launch of driverless vehicles * Develop and test Linux ...

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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu information

What is a junior Linux kernel engineer Ubuntu?

A Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu job involves working on the Linux kernel, specifically for Ubuntu and related Canonical projects. Responsibilities typically include debugging kernel issues, maintaining patches, optimizing performance, and contributing to upstream kernel development. Junior engineers collaborate with senior developers, test new kernel features, and ensure hardware compatibility. Strong knowledge of C programming, kernel internals, and debugging tools like GDB and perf is essential. This role provides a foundation for growth in open-source development and low-level system engineering.

What are some common challenges faced by junior Linux kernel engineers working with Ubuntu?

One common challenge for Junior Linux Kernel Engineers on Ubuntu is quickly understanding the complex and evolving codebase while adhering to Ubuntu's specific kernel customization and integration practices. New engineers often spend significant time learning to troubleshoot bugs, navigate documentation, and contribute effectively within established development workflows. Collaboration with senior engineers, participation in code reviews, and clear communication are integral to overcoming these hurdles and growing technically. Over time, junior engineers build deeper expertise and can take on larger projects and increased responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the junior Linux kernel engineer Ubuntu position?

A Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu should possess a solid understanding of C programming, Linux operating systems, and basic kernel architecture, often backed by a relevant computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, building and debugging tools, and certifications such as LFCS or CompTIA Linux+ are advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills help junior engineers excel in collaborative environments. These capabilities are essential for contributing safely and efficiently to kernel development and troubleshooting in a fast-evolving ecosystem like Ubuntu.

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What cities in California are hiring for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu jobs? Cities in California with the most Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Ubuntu job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Arista Networks

Santa Clara, CA

$123K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 5 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 + 3 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 2 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 1 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 salary range of $123,000 to $191,000. 

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.