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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on ... And you'll work with hardware architects and engineers, both inside SiFive and at RISC-V ...

Site Reliability Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$62.75 - $83.50/hr

The Site Reliability Engineer will be responsible for engineering infrastructure to support high ... and Linux Kernel internals • Ability to clearly communicate your thoughts, ask the right ...

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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$36.4K

$78K

$119K

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 Boston, MA is $78,003.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,700.00 and $86,900.00 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 Boston, MA? For Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Linux Kernel Architect

SiFive

Boston, MA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About SiFive

As the pioneers who introduced RISC-V to the world, SiFive is transforming the future of compute by bringing the limitless potential of RISC-V to the highest performance and most data-intensive applications in the world. SiFive's unrivaled compute platforms are continuing to enable leading technology companies around the world to innovate, optimize and deliver the most advanced solutions of tomorrow across every market segment of chip design, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits.

At SiFive, we are always excited to connect with talented individuals, who are just as passionate about driving innovation and changing the world as we are.

Our constant innovation and ongoing success is down to our amazing teams of incredibly talented people, who collaborate and support each other to come up with truly groundbreaking ideas and solutions. Solutions that will have a huge impact on people's lives; making the world a better place, one processor at a time.

Are you ready?

To learn more about SiFive's phenomenal success and to see why we have won theGSA's prestigious Most Respected Private Company Award(for the fourth time!), check out ourwebsiteandGlassdoorpages.

Job Description:

The Role

Do you want to be part of the RISC-V revolution? RISC-V and SiFive are redefining computing platforms for the 21st century. SiFive, the world RISC-V leader, is seeking an experienced Linux kernel software architect. In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on high core count server systems. You'll interact directly with the upstream Linux and OpenSBI communities, posting and reviewing patches. You'll debug challenging problems, working with our system software and system validation teams, on SiFive designs running in emulation. And you'll work with hardware architects and engineers, both inside SiFive and at RISC-V International, to improve our core and system designs.

What we need to see

  • Experience working on concurrency-sensitive code in the upstream Linux kernel, with a track record writing and reviewing patches on the public mailing lists

  • Experience debugging challenging software and hardware bugs in CPUs and SoCs

  • Experience working with CPU architects and RTL engineers

  • Experience developing and debugging Linux on FPGA and emulation platforms

  • Experience with hypervisors and virtualization

  • Familiarity with the RISC-V architecture

Ways to stand out

  • Familiarity with silicon design issues and challenges

  • Familiarity with microarchitectural side-channel attacks and mitigations

  • Familiarity with debugging systems via hardware debuggers

  • Familiarity with Devicetree, ACPI and UEFI

  • Familiarity with Rust

Pay & Benefits

Consistent with SiFive values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. We have a market-based pay structure which varies by location. Please note that the base pay range is a guideline, and our compensation range reflects the cost of labor in the U.S. geographic market based on the location of the role. Pay within these ranges varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and relevant work experience.

For candidates who receive and offer, the starting salary will vary based on various factors including, but not limited to, such qualifications as, skill level, competencies, and work location.The range provided may represent a candidate range and may not reflect the full range for an individual tenured employee.

Base Pay Range

In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for variable/ incentive compensation and/ or equity. In addition, this role is eligible for a comprehensive, competitive benefits package which may include healthcare and retirement plans, paid time off, and more!

Additional Information:

This position requires a successful background and reference checks and satisfactory proof of your right to work in

United States of America

Any offer of employment for this position is also contingent on the Company verifying that you are a authorized for access to export-controlled technology under applicable export control laws or, if you are not already authorized, our ability to successfully obtain any necessary export license(s) or other approvals.

SiFive is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

As an E-Verify employer, we use this system to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires in accordance with federal law. All applicants will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, upon hire. We do not use E-Verify to pre-screen job candidates and will comply with all E-Verify regulations.

California residents: please see our job candidate notice for more information on how we handle your personal information and your privacy rights: Privacy Policy Document.