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Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobgether

Our partner is looking for a Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement based in Netherlands ... Develop, submit, review, and maintain Linux kernel patches while working closely with upstream ...

Diverse Lynx

Linux Kernel Engineer

Spring, TX · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Job Title: Linux Kernel Engineer Location: Spring, TX- Hybrid Salary: $85k-$90k/year Detailed ... Linux system administration (RHEL, SLES, Ubuntu are priorities) - we have some Linux file servers ...

Cybercoders

AI Kernel / Cluster Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

AI Kernel / Cluster Engineer Title: AI Kernel / Cluster Engineer Location : Santa Clara area ... This means kernel-level Ubuntu Linux operations, LXC container management, workload scheduling, and ...

New

Nwis

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

... kernel performance tuning, infrastructure automation, and modern VPN technologies including ... Design, deploy, administer, and maintain enterprise Linux environments. * Develop standardized ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA

$139K - $258K/yr

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure ... You will collaborate with engineers across Apple to port, maintain, and upstream device drivers ...

NCSU

Linux Desktop Support

Raleigh, NC

... Engineering. Central to the mission is a high quality research and educational program that ... Ubuntu Linux. * Deploy, configure, and maintain Linux-based operating systems and applications.

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Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux information

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$11K

$114.5K

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How much do kernel maintenance engineer ubuntu linux jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for kernel maintenance engineer ubuntu linux in the United States is $114,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux vs Linux System Administrator?

AspectKernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu LinuxLinux System Administrator
Primary FocusKernel development, maintenance, and troubleshooting specific to Ubuntu LinuxManaging overall Linux system operations, user support, and system configuration
Skills & CertificationsLinux kernel expertise, C programming, Linux certifications (e.g., LPIC-3, RHCE)System administration, network management, scripting, Linux certifications
Work EnvironmentDevelopment labs, technical support, kernel debugging environmentsData centers, enterprise IT environments, server rooms
Employer & Industry UsageOpen-source projects, Linux distributions, hardware vendorsIT departments, hosting providers, enterprise companies

While both roles require Linux knowledge, Kernel Maintenance Engineers focus on the Linux kernel itself, especially within Ubuntu Linux, whereas Linux System Administrators handle broader system management tasks across Linux environments.

What is a Kernel Maintenance Engineer in Ubuntu Linux?

A Kernel Maintenance Engineer in Ubuntu Linux is responsible for maintaining, updating, and improving the Linux kernel used in Ubuntu distributions. Their duties include backporting security fixes, optimizing kernel performance, ensuring compatibility with new hardware, and collaborating with the open-source community. They also work on troubleshooting kernel-related issues, preparing kernel updates, and supporting Ubuntu's release cycles. This role is vital to keeping Ubuntu stable, secure, and efficient for all users.

What are some common challenges faced by Kernel Maintenance Engineers working with Ubuntu Linux, and how can they be addressed?

Kernel Maintenance Engineers for Ubuntu Linux often encounter complex challenges such as resolving compatibility issues between kernel updates and different hardware or software configurations. Additionally, keeping up with upstream kernel changes while maintaining Ubuntu-specific patches requires strong attention to detail and effective communication with both internal teams and the open-source community. Collaboration across distributed teams and responding quickly to security vulnerabilities are also vital aspects of the role. Building robust testing infrastructures and actively participating in code reviews and community discussions help address these challenges and ensure kernel reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Kernel Maintenance Engineer for Ubuntu Linux, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kernel Maintenance Engineer for Ubuntu Linux, you need a deep understanding of Linux kernel internals, C programming, debugging, and patch management, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with tools like Git, build systems (e.g., Make), continuous integration platforms, and experience with Ubuntu packaging and kernel development processes is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with global teams and manage complex issues. These technical and soft skills ensure the stability, security, and performance of Ubuntu Linux distributions relied upon by users worldwide.
More about Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux jobs
What job categories do people searching Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux jobs are:
Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kernel Maintenance Engineer Ubuntu Linux job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,500 per year, or $55 per hour.

Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement

Jobgether

Remote

Full-time

PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement based in Netherlands.

This role focuses on enabling and optimizing Ubuntu Linux across a wide range of modern System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms used by leading silicon vendors. You will work at the intersection of hardware and software, ensuring that Linux kernel support is fully integrated, performant, and stable on next-generation silicon. The role involves close collaboration with global engineering teams and external hardware partners to deliver optimized kernel variants tailored to specific platforms. You will diagnose and resolve complex low-level issues, contribute directly to kernel development, and improve tooling and automation for build and deployment workflows. This is a highly technical, hands-on engineering position suited to individuals passionate about operating systems and hardware-level performance. You will play a key role in shaping how Ubuntu runs across cutting-edge devices and architectures worldwide.

Accountabilities:
  • Collaborate with globally distributed engineering teams and silicon vendors to integrate and optimize SoC support within the Ubuntu Linux kernel across multiple hardware platforms.
  • Diagnose, debug, and resolve complex kernel-level issues reported by partners, customers, the community, and internal testing pipelines.
  • Develop, submit, review, and maintain Linux kernel patches while working closely with upstream maintainers and internal teams.
  • Build and deliver silicon-optimized kernel variants, ensuring performance, stability, and reliability across supported platforms.
  • Improve automation, tooling, and CI/CD systems used for kernel build, test, and release processes.
  • Identify performance bottlenecks and implement optimizations to maximize hardware efficiency across supported silicon architectures.
  • Maintain strong collaboration with hardware vendors to ensure seamless platform enablement and integration.
Requirements:
  • Strong programming expertise in C with solid understanding of low-level system software and hardware interaction.
  • Deep knowledge of operating system fundamentals, including Linux kernel architecture, device drivers, and BSPs.
  • Proven experience working with hardware-level development environments, including RTOS or bare-metal systems (Linux kernel experience is a strong advantage).
  • Proficiency with Git and experience contributing to or maintaining complex codebases.
  • Ability to debug and troubleshoot system-level issues across hardware and software boundaries.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in a distributed, global engineering environment.
  • Self-driven mindset with ability to work independently in a fully remote setup.
Benefits:
  • Fully remote global work environment with flexibility to work from anywhere
  • Annual performance-based compensation review and bonus opportunities
  • Learning and development budget of approximately USD 2,000 per year
  • Paid annual leave plus maternity and paternity leave policies
  • Opportunities for international travel to company events and technical sprints
  • Recognition programs and career growth within a cutting-edge open-source environment
  • Exposure to advanced silicon platforms and industry-leading hardware ecosystems
How Jobgether works:
We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.
We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!
 Why Apply Through Jobgether? 
 
Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.
 
 
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We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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