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Lead Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMD

Linux Kernel SW Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

They are seeking a Senior Linux Kernel SW Engineer to join their server software and solutions engineering team, where the role involves enabling AMD x86-64 architecture features in Linux and ...

Advanced Micro Devices

The Role We are looking for a passionate, dedicated, and technically strong first-line manager to lead a team of highly skilled Linux kernel engineers developing core CPU and SoC features for AMD ...

Jobgether

Lead, mentor, and develop a globally distributed team of Linux kernel engineers, fostering ... accountability, continuous learning, collaboration, and professional growth. * Oversee the delivery ...

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Lead Linux Kernel Developer information

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How much do lead linux kernel developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead linux kernel developer in the United States is $64.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56.73 and $74.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Linux Kernel Developer vs Linux Kernel Engineer?

AspectLead Linux Kernel DeveloperLinux Kernel Engineer
CredentialsExperience in kernel development, possibly advanced certificationsSimilar technical background, often with Linux certifications or degrees
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, strategic planningHands-on coding, debugging, and implementing kernel features
Industry UsageUsed in organizations requiring leadership in kernel projectsCommon in companies developing or maintaining Linux-based systems
Search & Comparison IntentSeeking leadership roles in kernel developmentLooking for technical kernel development positions

While both roles require strong Linux kernel knowledge, the Lead Linux Kernel Developer focuses on leadership, project management, and strategic oversight, whereas the Linux Kernel Engineer is primarily involved in hands-on coding and technical implementation.

Are Lead Linux Kernel Developers in demand?

Lead Linux Kernel Developers are in high demand due to the critical role of Linux in servers, cloud infrastructure, and embedded systems. Their expertise in kernel development, performance optimization, and system security makes them valuable in technology companies, hardware manufacturers, and open-source projects, often commanding competitive salaries and advanced skill requirements.

How much do lead Linux kernel developers make?

Lead Linux kernel developers typically earn between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Senior roles often require deep knowledge of C programming, kernel architecture, and debugging tools, which can influence salary levels.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

For Lead Linux Kernel Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Linux Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,813 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Austin, TX • On-site

Arista Networks
Network Security • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Arista Networksexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges.
At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation.
Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.
Job Description
Who You'll Work With
Arista's Linux Kernel team is responsible for developing and maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS. This includes keeping pace with the latest developments in the upstream Linux Kernel community, and integrating new versions of the upstream kernel as they become available. This work also involves designing and implementing new Linux kernel features, and working with the upstream kernel development community to get these changes incorporated into the mainline Linux kernel code base.
Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU vendors to integrate their kernel support into EOS. You will also help to bring-up and qualify new CPUs in our hardware products.
Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Linux Kernel software, your work will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.
What You'll Do
  • Track ongoing developments in the Linux Kernel and identify features and functionality of interest to Arista for our products and for internal development needs.
  • Develop and maintain EOS Kernel features and tests using C, C++ and Python, review and contribute to functional and design specifications. Build automated tests and test infrastructure to validate the features.
  • Work with hardware engineers and vendors to qualify new Kernel dependent hardware components like CPUs and NICs for integration into Arista products.
  • Work with the Kernel community to contribute features back to the mainline.
  • Work with a team of Kernel engineers to integrate new versions of the Kernel for use in EOS and our internal development.
  • Provide technical leadership across features, projects and tools.
  • Work with Customer Support Engineers and customers to analyze, mitigate and fix problems in customer networks.
  • Work with the System Test Engineers to analyze problems found in their tests and provide fixes for those problems.
  • Mentor new and junior engineers to bring them up to speed in Arista's software development environment.

Qualifications
  • BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 3 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 2 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 1 years experience, or equivalent work experience
  • Expert knowledge of and extensive experience programming in C required. Knowledge of C++ and Python is desirable.
  • Significant hands-on experience troubleshooting issues, fixing bugs and developing features in the Linux kernel.
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture, design and implementation.
  • Familiarity with the upstream Linux community's patching process and procedures.
  • Understanding of IP networking architecture, design and principles
  • Applied understanding of modern software engineering principles and practices
  • Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong software design and implementation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in small teams.
  • Ability to communicate articulately, and document your designs and implementations clearly, and concisely.
  • Familiarity with the x86 and ARM CPU architectures

#LI-SP1
Additional Information
Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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