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Kernel Security Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wayve

Staff Embedded Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$276K - $311K/yr

... security issues related to our vehicle fleet * Partner with developers from throughout the ... System-level (kernel/bootloader) software development experience * Significant experience with at ...

Wayve

Staff Embedded Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · Hybrid

$276K - $311K/yr

... security issues related to our vehicle fleet * Partner with developers from throughout the ... System-level (kernel/bootloader) software development experience * Significant experience with at ...

S3staffingusa Inc

Be Seen First

Embedded Systems Security Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

In this role, you will bridge the gap between low-level hardware security, kernel hardening, and ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

S3staffingusa Inc

Be Seen First

Embedded Systems Security Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

In this role, you will bridge the gap between low-level hardware security, kernel hardening, and ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

Modal, Inc

Infrastructure Security Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$150K - $270K/yr

The Role: We're looking for an Infrastructure Security Engineer to design and secure the core ... Familiarity with kernel-level or low-level isolation primitives * Experience securing Kubernetes or ...

Procore

Staff Security Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

We're looking for a Staff Security Engineer to join Procore's Security Engineering team as a ... Design and implement the multi-agent orchestration layer (using LangGraph, Semantic Kernel, or ...

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Kernel Security Engineer information

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$61.5K

$152.8K

$205.5K

How much do kernel security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for kernel security engineer in the United States is $152,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $158,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a kernel security engineer do?

A Kernel Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining security features within an operating system’s kernel. This role involves identifying vulnerabilities, developing patches, and ensuring that the kernel is protected against various threats such as privilege escalation, code execution, and other attacks. Kernel Security Engineers often work closely with software developers and security teams to create secure architectures and respond to security incidents. Their work is crucial in maintaining the integrity and security of systems, especially in environments where security is a top priority.

What are some common challenges faced by kernel security engineers when working with large codebases?

Kernel Security Engineers often work with complex and extensive codebases, which can make identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities challenging. Navigating legacy code, understanding intricate system interactions, and ensuring compatibility with various hardware architectures require strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Collaboration with other engineers, such as kernel developers and security researchers, is essential for successfully implementing security patches and staying updated on emerging threats. A proactive approach to code review and continuous learning is key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Kernel Security Engineer, you need deep knowledge of operating system internals, C/C++ programming, and experience with vulnerability assessment, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with Linux kernel development tools, debugging systems like GDB, and certifications such as OSCP or CEH are typically valuable. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills enable you to identify threats and create robust security solutions. These competencies are critical to protect the core of computing systems against sophisticated attacks and maintain system integrity.

What are popular job titles related to Kernel Security Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Kernel Security Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,773 per year, or $73.4 per hour.

Senior Kernel Engineer (remote)

Miami Gardens, FL • On-site, Remote

LaBine and Associates
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about LaBine and Associatesexternal

$113K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer
Build Security Where It Matters Most
Join an elite engineering team developing next-generation cybersecurity technology that protects enterprise infrastructure from the inside out. We build security at the Linux kernel level, creating advanced defensive capabilities that stop sophisticated threats before they reach user space.
If you enjoy solving complex operating system challenges, optimizing kernel performance, and developing technology that has a direct impact on enterprise security, we'd like to talk with you.
What You'll Do
  • Design and develop Linux kernel modules and low-level security components.
  • Build kernel-based monitoring, policy enforcement, and system protection capabilities.
  • Work with Linux internals including memory management, process scheduling, networking, filesystems, and device drivers.
  • Collaborate with security researchers and software engineers to integrate kernel technology into enterprise security products.
  • Analyze kernel crashes, optimize performance, and troubleshoot complex system-level issues.
  • Research emerging attack techniques and develop resilient kernel-level defenses.

What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years of professional Linux kernel development experience.
  • Expert knowledge of Linux kernel internals, kernel modules, device drivers, and system architecture.
  • Advanced C/C++ programming skills.
  • Experience debugging kernel code using GDB, KGDB, crash, ftrace, perf, or similar tools.
  • Experience developing secure, reliable, high-performance kernel software.
  • Background in cybersecurity, endpoint security, EDR, malware detection, or operating system security.

Preferred Experience
  • Linux Security Modules (LSM)
  • eBPF
  • Kernel networking or filesystem development
  • Secure Boot, SELinux, AppArmor, or kernel hardening
  • Reverse engineering or vulnerability research
  • Kernel exploit mitigation techniques
  • Open-source Linux kernel contributions

Why You'll Love This Role
  • Develop technology that operates at the deepest level of the Linux operating system.
  • Solve challenging kernel engineering problems that few developers ever encounter.
  • Work alongside experienced security researchers and operating system experts.
  • Make a direct impact on products protecting critical enterprise infrastructure worldwide.
  • Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and significant opportunities for technical growth.

If you're passionate about Linux internals, kernel development, and building world-class cybersecurity technology, we'd love to hear from you.
LaBine and Associates logo

About LaBine and Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LaBine and Associates is a full service talent acquisition firm specializing in executive search for a myriad of industries. Through our partnerships with experienced associates, we can also provide staffing support, expert consultants, and interim executives for your company’s needs. We have deep industry knowledge with understanding in multiple industries. Our specialists include experts in banking/finance, HR/Legal, Technology, Health Care, Life Sciences, Engineering, Energy, Supply Chain, Mining, Agribusiness and manufacturing.

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Mateo, CA, US

Year founded

2013

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