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Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Staff Engineer who is passionate about the Linux kernel. As a Staff Engineer at DigitalOcean, you will work as a high-level technical leader responsible for designing, optimizing ...

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$50.75 - $67.25/hr

We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer to build and maintain critical kernel-mode components for threat detection and prevention on Windows systems. Responsibilities : • Design and develop ...

AI Kernel Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$110K - $270K/yr

Role The AI Kernel Engineer in Quadric plays the key role to enable a large number of AI kernels/operators to run efficiently on the Quadric platform. The AI Kernel Engineer at Quadric will [1] ...

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

Role The AI Kernel Engineer in Quadric plays the key role to enable a large number of AI kernels/operators to run efficiently on the Quadric platform. The AI Kernel Engineer at Quadric will [1] ...

Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and optimal performance. * Analyze and optimize driver performance for demanding AI workloads, focusing ...

Kernel-Mode Driver Development: Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and optimal performance. * Performance Optimization: Analyze and ...

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

AI Kernel Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$110K - $270K/yr

Role The AI Kernel Engineer in Quadric plays the key role to enable a large number of AI kernels/operators to run efficiently on the Quadric platform. The AI Kernel Engineer at Quadric will [1] ...

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and optimal performance. * Analyze and optimize driver performance for demanding AI workloads, focusing ...

Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and optimal performance. * Analyze and optimize driver performance for demanding AI workloads, focusing ...

Showing results 41-60

Kernel information

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$92K

$155.5K

$229.5K

How much do kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for kernel in the United States is $155,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,000.00 and $169,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a kernel engineer?

Kernel Engineers typically spend their days designing, implementing, and maintaining low-level components of an operating system’s kernel, such as device drivers, process schedulers, or memory management subsystems. They often review and refactor code, troubleshoot and resolve bugs, and collaborate closely with hardware engineers, application developers, and QA teams. Participation in code reviews and contributing to open source communities or internal repositories are also common activities. This role requires staying up to date with the latest kernel developments and ensuring code changes are performant and stable, directly impacting the reliability and efficiency of the broader system.

What is a kernel?

A Kernel job typically refers to a role focused on developing, maintaining, or optimizing an operating system's kernel—the core component that manages system resources, hardware interaction, and process scheduling. Kernel developers work with low-level programming languages like C and Assembly to improve system performance, security, and stability. These roles often involve debugging kernel crashes, implementing new features, and collaborating with hardware and software teams to ensure seamless integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the kernel position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kernel Engineer, you need strong expertise in operating system fundamentals, C/C++ programming, and kernel module development, often supported by a degree in computer science or equivalent experience. Familiarity with Linux kernel source code, debugging tools like GDB, and version control systems such as Git is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication distinguish outstanding professionals in this field. These skills are crucial for maintaining system stability, ensuring high performance, and collaborating on complex, low-level software projects.

More about Kernel jobs

What cities are hiring for Kernel jobs?

Cities with the most Kernel job openings:

What states have the most Kernel jobs?

States with the most job openings for Kernel jobs include:

Infographic showing various Kernel job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,462 per year, or $74.7 per hour.

Linux Kernel and Containerization Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

i3 is seeking a motivated Linux Kernel and Containerization Subject Matter Expert (SME) that can work with a diverse team to monitor, update, and support THAAD Hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), Digital and simulation labs. Seeking a candidate with a strong background in containerization, Linux, Kernels, software development and security. Knowledge with a configuration management focus is a plus. Must be able to work in a team environment. This lab supports the THAAD weapons system.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills both oral and written; exhibit the ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic, customer focused work environment.


  • Kernel & OS Engineering: Serve as the SME for Linux kernel customization. Install, configure, and maintain system hardware/software across RHEL 7-10 environments.
  • Infrastructure Management: Design, develop, and maintain highly scalable, resilient container infrastructures and Cloud Development Environments (CDE)
  • Administer container orchestration clusters within strict air-gapped/classified environments requiring Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Automate Operating System builds and support the full lifecycle management of containerized applications.
  • Work directly with existing codebases, contribute improvements, and adapt solutions to overcome constraints within legacy systems.
  • Expert knowledge in container technologies
  • Demonstrated ability to design and maintain scalable, resilient container infrastructure.
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages
  • Provide troubleshooting support for hardware and software
  • Manage user accounts on classified systems using multi-factor authentication.
  • Oversee the implementation of container solutions within a Linux operating system

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 6+ years of relevant experience.
  • Must have Linux+ and Security+ certifications.
  • Advanced knowledge of RHEL (7-10) OS automation, and Linux kernel customization.
  • Travel of up to 20% is required for this position.
  • Active Secret security clearance required. 
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

Knowledge/Skills

  • Knowledge of office administration and procedures.
  • Exceptional judgment capabilities and relationship management skills.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and client service skills; ability to clearly communicate in discussions and written documents, and to deliver feedback clearly and tactfully.
  • Interact with a diverse array of customers and staff in a professional and courteous manner.
  • Work independently with accountability for accurate and complete results.
  • Be extremely organized and exceptionally detail oriented.
  • Work well both independently and in a team environment.
  • Be energized by a fast-paced work environment.
  • Must be able to communicate with others effectively.
  • Analyze information and respond appropriately.
  • Manage time wisely and prioritize tasks.
  • Provide superior customer service.
  • Multi-task in a pleasant manner.
  • Work well under pressure.

Physical Demands:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.  

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

 

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!