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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Linux Kernel/Driver development experience. * Experience with modern battery technologies and power management validation. Feeling uneasy that you haven't ticked every box? That's okay; we've felt ...

Linux Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Lead and mentor junior team members. * Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and ... experience with Linux/UNIX systems and interoperability with Windows. * Current Red Hat ...

Lead and mentor junior team members. * Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and ... experience with Linux/UNIX systems and interoperability with Windows. * Current Red Hat ...

Senior Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$117K - $155K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering ... Development of Linux kernel drivers and user space drivers * Application of embedded systems ...

Senior Software Engineer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering ... Development of Linux kernel drivers and user space drivers * Application of embedded systems ...

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will play a critical role in the development and ... Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT, Linux boot and base ...

... junior team members. • Troubleshoot and resolve LAN/WAN connectivity and performance issues. • Ensure compliance with security hardening standards (CIS, NIST SP 80053 Rev. 5, DISA STIGs)

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will play a critical role in the development and ... Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT, Linux boot and base ...

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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$32.2K

$69K

$105.3K

How much do junior linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior linux kernel engineer in Atlanta, GA is $69,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $76,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Junior Linux Kernel Engineer do?

A Junior Linux Kernel Engineer assists in developing, maintaining, and debugging the Linux kernel, which is the core part of the Linux operating system. Their responsibilities often include writing and testing kernel modules, fixing bugs, and contributing to kernel updates under the guidance of senior engineers. They may also help in troubleshooting hardware compatibility and optimizing system performance. This role often requires strong programming skills in C and familiarity with Linux systems and tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Linux Kernel Engineer, and why are they important?

A Junior Linux Kernel Engineer should have a solid understanding of C programming, operating system fundamentals, and computer architecture, typically supported by a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with Linux kernel development tools like Git, GCC, GDB, and patch submission processes, as well as knowledge of version control and debugging tools, is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in diagnosing issues and collaborating with senior engineers and open-source communities. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reliable kernel contributions, learning from experienced developers, and maintaining code quality in a complex technical environment.

What are some typical challenges a Junior Linux Kernel Engineer might face in their first year on the job?

As a Junior Linux Kernel Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as understanding the vast and complex architecture of the Linux kernel, navigating extensive codebases, and adhering to strict coding and documentation standards. Collaborating with more experienced engineers and participating in open-source communities can be both rewarding and daunting, as it often requires clear communication and constructive feedback. Additionally, you'll likely spend time debugging low-level system issues and learning to use specialized development tools, all of which are essential for building your expertise and confidence in the role.
What are popular job titles related to Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA? For Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Junior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Spectra Aerospace and Defense

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:
Spectra Alpharetta is seeking a highly skilled Embedded Linux Software Engineer with deep expertise in the NXP i.MX95 processor family. In this role, you will design, develop, and optimize Linux-based embedded software, including BSPs, device drivers, kernel modules, boot loaders, root file systems and low-level system integrations. You will play a key part in architecting next-generation processing solutions for high-reliability systems in aerospace, defense, medical, or similar embedded environments.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and customize Linux Board Support Packages (BSPs) for the NXP i.MX95 platform, including kernel configuration, U-Boot updates, and hardware bring-up.
  • Design, implement, and maintain Linux device drivers, kernel modules, and hardware abstraction layers.
  • Work with Yocto/OpenEmbedded to build, maintain, and optimize embedded Linux distributions.
  • Integrate and validate peripheral interfaces such as PCIe, I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, and Ethernet.
  • Debug hardware-software interactions using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG, and other low-level tools.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, and engineering during board bring-up, prototype evaluation, and system integration.
  • Develop robust, production-quality embedded applications in C/C++ for ARM-based SoCs.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design artifacts, test plans, and release notes, in alignment with NPI Phase Gate requirements (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR).
  • Ensure software complies with performance, reliability, cybersecurity, and program standards.

Essential Skills
  • Strong proficiency in embedded Linux development on ARM-based architectures.
  • Hands-on experience with NXP i.MX processors (i.MX8, i.MX9 series; i.MX95 highly preferred).
  • Expertise in Linux kernel internals, driver development, and system-level debugging.
  • Fluent with Yocto/OpenEmbedded build environments.
  • Strong background in C/C++ and low-level firmware development.
  • Knowledge of hardware interfaces such as I2C, SPI, PCIe, GPIO, UART, and Ethernet.
  • Experience using JTAG, Lauterbach, or equivalent tools for board bring-up.
  • Solid understanding of embedded system concepts, memory-mapped I/O, and bootloaders.
  • Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.

Experience and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related technical discipline.
  • A Master's degree is preferred but not required, especially for candidates with strong hands-on experience.
  • 7-10+ years of embedded Linux software development experience on ARM-based SoCs.
  • Significant hands-on experience with NXP i.MX processors (i.MX8 or i.MX9 required; i.MX95 strongly preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience developing BSPs, device drivers, kernel modules, U-Boot, and working with Yocto/OpenEmbedded.
  • Strong low-level debugging experience (JTAG, logic analyzers, board bring-up).
  • Experience working in regulated or high-reliability environments (aerospace, defense, medical, automotive) is an advantage.
  • Experience within the defense, aerospace, and/or rugged electronics sectors is highly desirable.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with secure boot, Trusted Execution Environments (TEE), or ARM TrustZone.
  • Exposure to real-time Linux or mixed RTOS/Linux architectures.
  • Experience with GPU accelerated applications on ARM-based architectures.
  • Background working in aerospace, defense, automotive, or other regulated environments.
  • Scripting experience (Python, Bash) for automation and tooling.
  • Knowledge of safety-critical or high reliability software practices.

Personal Traits and Characteristics:
  • Analytical and detail-oriented with strong problem solving skills.
  • Collaborative, communicative, and effective in cross disciplinary engineering environments.
  • Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving technical landscapes.
  • Committed to high-quality, maintainable, mission-ready software.
  • Mission-focused: Dedicated to delivering reliable, high-performance systems that support critical operations.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see, and hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
May require occasional travel (up to 10%) for field service or customer support.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Office environment with temperature control, may be exposed to chemicals related to the manufacturing process. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Sprectra provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.