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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Geneva Trading

Junior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Junior Software Engineer (Trading Systems & OS) Location: Chicago, IL (Loop) Team: Proprietary ... how the Linux kernel handles every packet that strategy sends. Core Responsibilities

Simplex Trading

Infrastructure Engineer

Chicago, IL

$110K - $145K/yr

Thorough understanding of Linux (kernel, modules, filesystems) with special emphasis on the network stack, especially multicast, and OpenOnload * Experience working with Linux and standard tools ...

Old Mission

C++ Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... the Linux kernel, systems programming • A passion for solving challenging problems • Strong systems knowledge and prefer some experience in developing low latency systems • Experience with ...

Geneva Trading

Mid-level Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Geneva Trading is seeking a Mid-Level System Engineer to join our Core Infrastructure team in ... Advanced Linux: Deep knowledge of the Linux kernel, system internals, and performance profiling ...

Old Mission

C++ Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$175K - $300K/yr

In-depth knowledge of the Linux kernel, systems programming * A passion for solving challenging problems * Strong systems knowledge and prefer some experience in developing low latency systems

Simplex Trading

Infrastructure Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Thorough understanding of Linux (kernel, modules, filesystems) with special emphasis on the network ... Infrastructure Engineer pay range $125,000-$200,000 USD Why us? Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex ...

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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$74K

$112.8K

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior linux kernel engineer in Chicago, IL is $73,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $82,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Junior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:
Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,964 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
Junior Software Engineer

Junior Software Engineer

Geneva Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1999, Geneva Trading is a premier global principal trading firm with strategically located offices in Chicago, Dublin, and London. Our relentless focus on trading excellence combined with technological innovation has equipped us with a best-in-class proprietary trading platform, enabling us to compete at the highest levels in the global markets. Rooted in a culture of integrity, collaboration, and an unwavering passion for progress, we foster an environment of personal and professional excellence. Our nimble organizational structure and entrepreneurial spirit attract top-tier talent with a passion for innovation, laying the foundation and driving our consistent success in the industry.
Junior Software Engineer (Trading Systems & OS)
Location: Chicago, IL (Loop)
Team: Proprietary Trading Group
The Opportunity
Geneva Trading is seeking a Junior Software Engineer with a systems-programming pedigree to join our Chicago headquarters. In this role, you will be an integral part of a specialized development staff that works side-by-side with Traders and Quantitative Researchers. We aren't looking for a "back-office" developer; we need a problem solver who wants to sit at the intersection of code and the markets. You will use your understanding of Operating Systems and low-level architecture to ensure our strategies are the fastest and most reliable in the world. This role is for the curious mind-the engineer who doesn't just want to write a strategy but wants to understand exactly how the Linux kernel handles every packet that strategy sends.
Core Responsibilities
  • Collaborative Development: Work daily within a tight-knit unit of Traders and Quants to translate high-frequency strategies into production-ready code.
  • Systems-Level Optimization: Build and tune trading applications using Modern C++, with a heavy focus on OS-level performance (e.g., CPU affinity, memory management, and kernel bypass).
  • Research & Diagnostic Tooling: Leverage Python to build high-speed data pipelines, backtesting frameworks, and real-time monitoring tools to analyze strategy behavior.
  • Deep-Dive Problem Solving: Act as the "systems expert" for the desk-diagnosing jitter, race conditions, or latency spikes by digging into the Linux stack (schedulers, interrupts, and syscalls).
  • Execution Excellence: Maintain a "zero-error" mindset, ensuring the absolute correctness of trading logic in a high-stakes, real-time environment.

The Technical Profile
  • Education: BS/MS in Computer Science or Computer Engineering with a strong academic focus on Operating Systems.
  • Language Proficiency: C++: Professional-level understanding of pointers, memory layout, and concurrency.
  • Python: Ability to write clean, efficient code for data analysis and automation.
  • OS Fundamentals: Deep knowledge of Linux/Unix internals. You should understand how the OS manages hardware resources and how to optimize that interaction for speed.
  • The "Curious" Mindset: A natural drive to deconstruct complex systems. You are the person who reads the man pages and enjoys figuring out the "why" behind a system's behavior.

The Geneva Environment
  • High-Touch Collaboration: You are part of the trading desk's heartbeat, where feedback loops between code and market impact are measured in microseconds.
  • Intellectual Rigor: Solve non-trivial puzzles alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.
  • Chicago Culture: Work in our state-of-the-art Chicago office, enjoying the energy of the trading floor combined with a flat, meritocratic structure.

Compensation
Base Salary Range: $80,000 - $130,000, plus eligibility for a performance-based bonus.
Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's skills, experience, education, and qualifications. In addition to base salary, Geneva Trading offers a competitive total rewards package, including a comprehensive benefits program. Learn more about our employee incentives here: https://www.genevatrading.com/employee-incentives/
Application expected to close on 5/15/26
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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