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Kernel Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Point72

Linux Security Lead

New York, NY · On-site

Working knowledge of Linux kernel security features such as SELinux or AppArmor, auditd, system hardening, privilege separation, and secure boot patterns. * Experience operating in an engineering ...

Point72

Linux Security Lead

New York, NY · On-site

Working knowledge of Linux kernel security features such as SELinux or AppArmor, auditd, system hardening, privilege separation, and secure boot patterns. * Experience operating in an engineering ...

Aptiv

OR · On-site

Work closely with kernel, platform, infrastructure, and security engineering teams. Security Engineering & Hardening * Investigate, triage, reproduce, and remediate CVEs across the distribution ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$50.75 - $67.25/hr

Responsibilities : • Design and develop kernel-mode filter drivers (file system minifilter, registry filter, network filter, etc.) to support security monitoring and enforcement. • Investigate ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

Investigate and reverse-engineer Windows internals to implement low-level security features and ... Perform in-depth kernel debugging, crash dump analysis, and performance tuning using WinDbg, ETW ...

Kodiak

Senior Cloud Security Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$135K - $185K/yr

Experience building runtime security monitoring using eBPF or kernel security policies What we offer: * Competitive compensation package including equity and annual bonuses * Excellent Medical ...

Kodiak

Senior Cloud Security Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$136K - $186K/yr

... kernel security policies Company : Endlessly adaptable. Always reliable. Through the endless demands of a world in constant motion, Kodiak helps you get the job done. Founded in 2018, the company is ...

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How much do kernel security jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for kernel security in the United States is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is kernel security?

Kernel security refers to the set of technologies, practices, and mechanisms that protect the core of an operating system (the kernel) from unauthorized access, vulnerabilities, and malicious activities. The kernel manages critical system resources and enforces security boundaries, making it a primary target for attackers. Kernel security involves implementing access controls, privilege separation, secure coding practices, and regular patching to mitigate threats and ensure system integrity. Effective kernel security is essential for safeguarding the entire operating system and the data it manages.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Kernel Security roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Kernel Security often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle vulnerabilities in complex codebases, keeping up with rapidly evolving threat landscapes, and ensuring security patches do not disrupt system stability. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with security advisories, engaging in regular code reviews, collaborating closely with development and operations teams, and leveraging automated tools for static and dynamic analysis. Continuous learning and participation in security communities also help in proactively identifying and mitigating new risks.

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 a strong background in operating systems, C/C++ programming, vulnerability analysis, and a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools such as static and dynamic analysis software, debuggers, reverse engineering tools, and knowledge of platforms like Linux or Windows kernels is essential, as well as certifications like OSCP or CEH. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for identifying vulnerabilities and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Mastery of these skills ensures robust protection of system kernels, minimizing security risks and maintaining system integrity.

What is the difference between Kernel Security vs Kernel Developer?

AspectKernel SecurityKernel Developer
Required CredentialsKnowledge of security protocols, certifications in cybersecurity, Linux/Unix security experienceProficiency in C/C++, OS development, computer science degrees
Work EnvironmentSecurity teams, cybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSoftware development teams, OS development companies
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, government agencies, cybersecurity firmsOperating system vendors, tech companies, open-source projects
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding security roles related to kernelDeveloping or modifying kernel code

Kernel Security focuses on protecting the operating system kernel from vulnerabilities and threats, ensuring system integrity and confidentiality. Kernel Developers, on the other hand, are involved in designing, coding, and maintaining the kernel itself. While both roles require strong programming skills and knowledge of operating systems, Kernel Security emphasizes security measures and threat mitigation, whereas Kernel Developers focus on kernel architecture and functionality.

Infographic showing various Kernel Security job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, 33% Full Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,041 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Kernel Software Engineer

Webster & Webster Associates

Boston, MA • Remote

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Premier embedded software company is seeking a Kernel Software Engineer. The company develops core operating system solutions for high-integrity, safety-critical embedded systems across industries like aerospace and automotive. This specialized role is ideal for a highly independent engineer with deep expertise in low-level kernel development, multi-core architectures, and stringent safety standards. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and maintaining a microkernel foundation that supports advanced time and space partitioning and fault containment capabilities.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and optimize core components of an RTOS microkernel, focusing on enhancing support for partitioned, safety-critical multi-core systems.
  • Implement and refine advanced safety features related to multi-core processing, including core isolation, partitioning mechanisms, and fault containment strategies.
  • Develop, troubleshoot, and maintain kernel components to ensure full compliance with rigorous functional safety standards (e.g. DO-178C).
  • Implement and manage platform-specific Application Binary Interfaces (ABIs) for key processor architectures (e.g. ARM64, x86, PowerPC, and RISC-V).
  • Integrate established industry standards for partitioning and real-time execution into the kernel or supporting user libraries.
  • Conduct extensive testing, verification, code reviews, and meticulous documentation to ensure the highest levels of robustness, stability, and quality.
Core Qualifications
  • Engineering degree in Electrical, Computer, Software Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming languages, with working familiarity with assembly language for low-level interaction.
  • Extensive experience developing RTOS kernels that incorporate partitioning mechanisms and multi-core safety features.
  • Practical experience working with diverse hardware architectures including ARM64, x86, and PowerPC, and related ABIs
  • Familiarity with hardware virtualization is beneficial.
  • Expertise in core functional safety standards such as DO-178C, ISO 26262, and knowledge of partitioning standards like ARINC 653 is essential.
  • Familiarity with software standards like C11 and POSIX is required.
  • Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and system optimization skills.
What Sets This Opportunity Apart
  • Remote Flexibility: This is a fully remote role within the contiguous US, offering maximum flexibility for a highly specialized independent contributor.
  • High-Integrity Focus: Directly contribute to the foundational software layer of systems where safety, reliability, and security are the ultimate requirement (Level A certification environments).
  • Technical Depth: Work with cutting-edge multi-core architectures and advanced techniques like time and space partitioning.
  • Autonomy and Impact: Join a respected technology leader and operate independently within a supportive, distributed team structure, with your work having a direct, critical impact on product performance and certification.


Title: Kernel Software Engineer
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Hours: Full-Time
Location: Remote, US only
Location Type: Fully Remote
Relocation: None
Job ID: JO-2501-1288

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