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Kernel Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

quadric, Inc

AI Kernel Engineer (New Grad)

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Role The AI Kernel Engineer (New Grad) at Quadric plays a key role in enabling a large number of AI kernels and operators to run efficiently on the Quadric platform. In this role, you will [1] ...

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an organization ...

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Description VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an ...

Apple

Kernel Scheduler Engineer, Core OS

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

Description As a Kernel Engineer on the Scheduler team, you will drive the evolution of the XNU kernel to support the expanding capabilities of Apple Silicon. You will work on the heart of the ...

Aptiv

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA

$100K - $135K/yr

System Engineer - OS Kernel Location: Walnut Creek, CA ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four decades, the ...

Aptiv

System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

System Engineer - OS Kernel Location: Walnut Creek, CA ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four decades, the ...

Aptiv

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel Location: Walnut Creek, CA ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four ...

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Kernel Engineer information

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or hardware engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries like technology or finance. Roles often require expertise in programming languages, system design, or cloud platforms, along with relevant certifications and leadership responsibilities.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in high-demand fields such as software engineering, data engineering, and specialized roles like kernel engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and stock options. These roles often require expertise in systems programming, performance optimization, and sometimes leadership responsibilities in tech companies or startups.

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 hardware integration. Employers seek professionals with strong programming skills in C and C++, experience with Linux or other OS kernels, and knowledge of system architecture, making this a competitive and growing field.

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 does a kernel engineer do?

A kernel engineer designs, develops, and maintains the core part of an operating system known as the kernel. They work on low-level system components, optimize performance, and troubleshoot hardware and software interactions, often using programming languages like C and tools such as debugging utilities. Their work ensures the stability, security, and efficiency of the operating system environment.
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Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kernel Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.

Senior Linux Kernel Engineer - 'Linux Kernels'

ph7

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description

A Network Processor Company

Job Description
San Jose, CA, United States

Job Description:
Responsibilities include the design and development of Linux and simple executive (bare metal) device drivers which involves:

  • Adding support for OCTEON III Processor (48 64-bit CPUs, 100Gbps traffic handling.
  • Virtualization support (NUMA, etc).
  • Projects on current generation OCTEONs (OCTEON, OCTEON Plus and OCTEON II).

 

Qualifications

Required:

  • BS with 7 -12 years of relevant experience.
  • Should have experience adding support for new HW platforms and devices to the Linux kernel.
  • Detailed knowledge of Linux kernel internals and device drivers.
  • Ability to work with low level HW and debug issues using kernel debuggers and EJTAG probes.
  • Familiar with at least one processor assembly language (MIPS, ARM, x86 or Power PC).
  • Outstanding programming skills in C.
  • Should have the ability to prepare and submit patches to the Linux kernel mainline.
  • A history of participation in Linux kernel mailing lists and open source development a huge plus.

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