ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Kernel Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

NEURA Robotics

$90 - $130/hr

As Firmware Engineer for Dexterous Hand Systems, your mission is to build and own the embedded ... Zephyr) and Linux Kernel targets, including full Qualcomm IQ‑series SOM bring‑up * Define and ...

The Hiring Method, LLC

C++ Software Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$130K - $186K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Linux kernel or system internals, OS-level scheduling, TCP/UDP, sockets, or network programming * Boost, LLVM, Abseil, Docker, or cloud technologies * CI/CD pipelines and modern software development ...

New

SRC, Inc.

Staff C++ Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Deep knowledge of system internals (Linux kernel, OS-level scheduling) or network programming (TCP/UDP, sockets) * Open Source / Ecosystem: Significant experience leveraging or contributing to ...

SRC, Inc

Staff C++ Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Deep knowledge of system internals (Linux kernel, OS-level scheduling) or network programming (TCP/UDP, sockets) * Open Source / Ecosystem: Significant experience leveraging or contributing to ...

SRC, Inc

Staff C++ Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Deep knowledge of system internals (Linux kernel, OS-level scheduling) or network programming (TCP/UDP, sockets) * Open Source / Ecosystem: Significant experience leveraging or contributing to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsKernel Engineer JobsKernel Engineer Jobs in Ohio

Kernel Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kernel engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kernel Engineer, you need deep expertise in C programming, operating system concepts, and low-level hardware interactions, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), debugging tools (such as GDB), and kernel development frameworks is crucial. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills enable the creation of reliable, efficient, and secure kernels that form the backbone of computing systems.

What is the difference between Kernel Engineer vs Device Driver Developer?

AspectKernel EngineerDevice Driver Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Linux/Unix knowledge, programming skills in C/C++Similar credentials, often with specialized knowledge in hardware and driver development
Work EnvironmentSystem-level development, kernel code, Linux/Unix environmentsHardware interaction, driver coding, embedded or OS-specific environments
Industry UsageOperating system development, open-source projects, hardware manufacturersHardware companies, embedded systems, OS vendors
Common Search/ComparisonKernel EngineerDevice Driver Developer

Kernel Engineers focus on developing and maintaining the core kernel of operating systems, ensuring system stability and performance. Device Driver Developers specialize in creating software that allows hardware components to communicate with the OS. While both roles require similar technical skills and often overlap, Kernel Engineers work on the entire kernel infrastructure, whereas Device Driver Developers concentrate on specific hardware interfaces.

What is a kernel engineer?

A Kernel Engineer is a software engineer who specializes in the development, maintenance, and optimization of operating system kernels, such as Linux or Windows. Their primary responsibilities include designing new kernel features, fixing bugs, improving performance, and ensuring compatibility with hardware. They often work closely with hardware manufacturers and other software developers to build stable and secure system foundations. Kernel Engineers must have a deep understanding of operating system internals, low-level programming (typically in C or C++), and computer architecture. This role is critical for maintaining and advancing the core components that allow computers and devices to function efficiently.

Are kernel engineers in demand?

Kernel engineers are in high demand due to the critical role they play in developing and maintaining operating system kernels, especially in areas like embedded systems, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Companies seek professionals with expertise in C, C++, and Linux kernel development to improve system performance and security, making this a strong job market for qualified candidates.

What are some typical challenges kernel engineers face when working on operating system updates?

Kernel Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining system stability and compatibility when implementing updates or new features. Ensuring that changes do not introduce regressions or security vulnerabilities requires thorough testing and collaboration with QA and other engineering teams. Additionally, Kernel Engineers need to keep up-to-date with hardware advancements and support a wide range of devices, which can add complexity to their work. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential for navigating these challenges and delivering high-quality code.

What are popular job titles related to Kernel Engineer jobs in Ohio?

For Kernel Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kernel Engineer jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Kernel Engineer jobs in Ohio are:

Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kernel Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Cyber Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Cincinnati, OH

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Come join NorthropGrumman-Xetron, part of the MissionSystems sector, where we develop new capabilities for our military and intelligence customers around the globe. At Xetron we design systems that only science fiction writers could imagine, because they're that cool!

Xetron is an operating unit of the NorthropGrumman Corporation, located in Cincinnati, Ohio where employees have the chance to know everyone on site while working on cuttingedge technologies and highimpact products. You'll tackle the next generation of challenging problems, share expertise, and learn from worldclass teammates. Remember when you were excited about the challenge of the problem, the importance of the solution, and the fun you had with your team?You'll experience that at Xetron! See why we receive comments on our YouTube Videos like "This company is insanely advanced" and "Wow. This is mind blowing."

We are seeking cleared or clearable mid-level Software Engineers who are selfmotivated and energetic, with a background in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical disciplines.

Responsibilities:

This position involves developing solutions to national security threats with products that may involve kernel development, reverse engineering, or vulnerability research of network and communication systems. The position requires solid software development skills, including familiarity with scripting languages. Knowledge of computer networking, modern software development environments, embedded programming, and software configuration management tools is a plus.

Essential Functions:

  • Kernel Mode (Windows, Linux) programming (C/C++, Assembly)
  • Reverse Engineering (x86, x64, MIPS, PPC, or ARM)
  • Vulnerability Analysis
  • Communications Engineer:
    • Network Programming (C/C++)
    • Network protocols TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP, SSL, etc...
  • Infrastructure Engineer

Basic Qualifications for Cyber Software Engineer Level:

  • B.S. degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field and 2 years of programming experience, or M.S. degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering and 0 experience.
  • US Citizenship is required
  • An active Top Secret clearance is required
  • Demonstrated software programming experience in C/C++
  • Experience with debugging and/or system analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, IDAPro, OllyDebug, WinDBG, JTAG debuggers)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Active SCI security clearance
  • Experience as Technical Lead leading teams of 2-8 engineers
  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • Experience in software development to include any of the following: kernel mode, embedded, command and control, web applications, network applications
  • Experience with SDLC (software development life cycle)
  • Familiarity with Assembly Languages (e.g., x86, x64, MIPS, PPC, or ARM)
  • Experience with vulnerability research on one or more operating systems (Android, IOS, Windows, Linux, etc.).
  • Experience with emulation (Renode, QEMU, etc.)
  • Experience with reverse engineering compiled binaries using industry-standard tools such as Ghidra or IDA Pro.
  • Experience developing software for multiple operating system environments
  • Experience with virtual machine technology
  • OS Internals experience
  • Development of lower-level networking protocols such as TCP/IP and UDP
  • Understanding of return-oriented programming (ROP) concepts and execution
  • Ability to develop and implement shell code.
  • Ability to understand secure / insecure programming concepts (format string vulnerabilities, heap overflows, etc.)
  • Familiarity with modern source control platforms (e.g., Git, GitHub, GitLab) and CI/CD workflows using tools such as Jenkins, GitHub Actions, and GitLab CI.
  • Experience with the Agile methodology

This position offers the option of a 9/80 work schedule. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off.

Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

View All Northrop Grumman Jobs

Apply