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Junior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Embedded SW Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$174K - $261K/yr

Development and integration involving embedded programming in C/C++ and Rust * Build and ... Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications * Familiarity with RTOS and ...

The Role We are seeking an experienced Mainframe z/VM & Linux Engineer to support IBM Z ... your career, from Junior System Administrator to Architect. We have opportunities for Cloud ...

Leading and training junior engineers in the development of gaming products. * Solving complex ... Have experience with Linux or UNIX. * Have experience with state machines and interrupts. * Have ...

Software Engineer Principal

Phoenix, AZ

$134K - $179K/yr

... junior team members - Partner with engineering, SRE, and platform teams to improve system design ... Linux, Windows Server, PowerShell, Python, automation, scripting, platform engineering ...

Mentor mid-level and junior engineers in technical skills and engineering judgment. * Provide ... Linux internals and CLI tooling * Experience with LLMs, LangChain/LangGraph, and vector databases ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$33.3K

$71.3K

$108.7K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior linux kernel engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $71,290.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,200.00 and $79,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Infographic showing various Junior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,290 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Embedded SW Engineer

Viasat, Inc.

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$174K - $261K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Viasat rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 97 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

Viasat’s Advanced Electronics team is responsible for developing and operating satellite systems and payloads that are designed to be highly reliable and able to withstand the harsh conditions of space. This includes designing and building satellite platforms, payloads, and ground systems that are capable of surviving and continuing to function in the face of extreme temperatures radiation, and other environmental challenges. The goal of the team is to ensure Viasat’s satellite systems deliver reliable, high-quality service worldwide.  


The day-to-day

What’s the day-to-day like for this candidate?

  • Development and integration involving embedded programming in C/C++ and Rust    
  • Build and incorporation with embedded and system test software developed in C/C++ alongside Python      
  • Development and deployment of Linux OS applications in Python, C/C++, and Rust  
  • Build and deployment of FreeRTOS applications in C/C++ and Rust      
  • Build and develop applications for microprocessors, embedded processors, and FPGAs  
  • Design and implementation of bare metal embedded device drivers
  • Debug and resolve complex integration issues
  • Design CI/CD infrastructure and automation services
  • Find opportunities to improve product reliability and security
  • Lead design reviews and documentation tasks
  • Agile SCRUM Framework development
  • Works autonomously with little instruction to solve well-defined problems

What you'll need
  • A minimum 5 years of professional experience using C/C++
  • Expertise with multi-threaded applications and inter-process communication
  • Understanding of real-time concepts on embedded Linux or RTOS platforms
  • Government position, US Citizenship required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or similar field, or equivalent experience

What will help you on the job
  • Experience with C/C++ software development
  • Experience with CI/CD practices
  • Experience with AI Toolkits and Platforms (e.g. Copilot, Claude, Cursor, etc.)
  • Familiarity with tools and services like Git, GitHub, Jira, Jama, Artifactory, etc.
  • Familiarity with FPGA-based architectures
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications
  • Familiarity with RTOS and standalone embedded applications
  • Familiarity with Ethernet standard and protocols
  • Familiarity with network security protocols (e.g. IPSec, MACsec, TLS, etc.)
  • Familiarity with Python software development
  • Familiarity with Emulation Environments

Salary range
$140,500.00 - $221,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $174,000.00- $261,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • A minimum 5 years of professional experience using C/C++
  • Expertise with multi-threaded applications and inter-process communication
  • Understanding of real-time concepts on embedded Linux or RTOS platforms
  • Government position, US Citizenship required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or similar field, or equivalent experience
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986