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Lead Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SiFive

In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on ... And you'll work with hardware architects and engineers, both inside SiFive and at RISC-V ...

CEDENT

Kernel Developer (eBPF)

$40 - $60/hr

Linux kernel development experience with emphasis on the network stack and its interfaces is highly desirable e.g. * Programming experience at the sockets layer, protocol layer, device layer and ...

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Lead Linux Kernel Developer information

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$10

$64

$88

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.

Kernel / Linux Development Engineer

Austin, TX • On-site

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Advanced Micro Devices, Incexternal

$178K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 163 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER. ADVANCE THE WORLD.
At AMD, we believe technology has the power to solve the world's most important challenges. From advancing healthcare and scientific discovery to powering AI and the technologies people rely on every day, innovation at AMD is shaping the future.
Whether you're designing next-gen processors, enabling AI breakthroughs, or bringing leading edge products to market, every role at AMD contributes to something bigger - technology that moves the world forward. Join us and, together, we'll advance your career.
Staff Kernel/Linux Engineer
THE ROLE:
AMD's server software and solutions engineering team is seeking an engineer to join the Linux Kernel and Virtualization development team. This role requires expertise in x86 architecture, virtualization, security, as well as experience with open-source engagement and upstreaming. You will work on enabling AMD x86-64 architecture features in Linux, designing and developing core CPU and SoC features for the Linux kernel and related open-source projects. The role spans all phases of software development, with a focus on virtualization, memory management, performance, scalability, low level bringup and distro interactions. This position is based in Austin.
THE PERSON:
A highly motivated and passionate professional with technical expertise and a proven track record, eager to work with cutting-edge technologies in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate thrives in collaboration and innovation, playing a crucial role in optimizing and showcasing the full capabilities of AMD products through advanced software and solutions, while actively influencing the next generation of product development.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience in x86 computing architecture
  • Proven experience in the software development lifecycle
  • In-depth knowledge of kernels, virtualization, and security
  • Successful track record in contributions to open-source projects in particular to Linux KVM and open source VMMs such as QEMU
  • Linux Kernel debugging skills across kernel subsystems, virtualization.
  • Understanding and experience with the Linux kernel and related upstream development workflow
  • Advanced programming skills in C for operating system kernel & systems development
  • Exposure to KVM/QEMU (including x86-64 virtualization extensions) is a plus
  • Experience with the GNU toolchain
  • Proficient use of git
  • Experience with open source software development, building and submitting patches on a mailing list, and working with external software partners
  • Understanding of operating systems concepts, data structures, x86-64 architecture, ACPI, and PCIE
  • Experience with low-level debug tools as well as emulators and simulators
  • Background in IO, core kernel preferred
  • Successful track record in contributions to open-source projects

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field
  • 5+ years experience

LOCATION:
Austin, TX
Santa Clara, CA
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
#LI-LM1
#LI-HYBRID
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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