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Linux Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OLogic, Inc.

Be Seen First

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

As an Embedded Linux Software Engineer, you would get to work on software builds, device drivers, and low-level systems architecture using Yocto Linux, CMake, C, C++., and more. In addition, you will ...

TRL11, Inc.

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100 - $150K/hr

Based in Irvine, CA, we are seeking highly passionate, skilled and experienced Embedded Software Engineers with expertise in Linux BSP, device driver development, and debugging to join our dynamic ...

TRL11, Inc.

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100 - $150K/hr

Based in Irvine, CA, we are seeking highly passionate, skilled and experienced Embedded Software Engineers with expertise in Linux BSP, device driver development, and debugging to join our dynamic ...

TRL11, Inc.

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100 - $150K/hr

Based in Irvine, CA, we are seeking highly passionate, skilled and experienced Embedded Software Engineers with expertise in Linux BSP, device driver development, and debugging to join our dynamic ...

LERETA, LLC

Linux Systems Engineer

Pomona, CA

LERETA is seeking a Linux Systems Engineer to support and enhance our enterprise infrastructure environments. The role is responsible for the design, implementation, and ongoing support of Linux ...

Lereta

Linux Systems Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

LERETA is seeking a Linux Systems Engineer to support and enhance our enterprise infrastructure environments. The role is responsible for the design, implementation, and ongoing support of Linux ...

OpenAI

Linux Kernels Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$342K - $555K/yr

About the Role We're looking for a founding/lead Linux kernel developer to join our Scaling team. In this role, you'll design and develop Linux kernel components, working at the intersection of ...

Qualcomm

Staff Engineer, Linux Device Drivers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134.80K - $202.20K/yr

The engineer will develop and extend Linux kernel driver code related to PCIe device setup, firmware loading, MHI bus, DMABUF importation, and DMA transfers. Familiarity with SoC systems including ...

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How much do linux engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux engineer in California is $58.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $66.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Linux Engineer?

A Linux engineer works to manage software, hardware, or a system on a Linux server. Network monitoring and server maintenance are basic job duties, but they also participate in programming, scripting, and process automation. Qualifications include programming experience, and a deep understanding of Linux as well as DNS, LDAP, and Java. A Linux engineer acquires qualifications or skills during formal education and internships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Linux Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Linux Engineer, you need a deep understanding of Linux operating systems, scripting languages like Bash or Python, and experience with system administration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications such as Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE). Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet), virtualization platforms, and monitoring systems is also crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication set exceptional Linux Engineers apart. These skills are vital to ensure stable, secure, and efficient IT environments that meet organizational needs.

How does a Linux Engineer typically collaborate with development and IT teams on projects?

Linux Engineers work closely with both development and IT teams to ensure that server environments are robust, secure, and optimized for application deployment. Collaboration often involves participating in planning meetings, automating server provisioning, troubleshooting issues that span hardware and software, and implementing security best practices. Regular communication is essential, as Linux Engineers often bridge the gap between developers’ requirements and IT operational constraints. This teamwork helps streamline deployments, minimize downtime, and support continuous integration and delivery pipelines.

What are Linux Engineers?

Linux Engineers are IT professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Linux-based systems and servers. They work with open-source software and are responsible for system security, performance tuning, automation, and support. Linux Engineers often manage enterprise environments, help configure networks, and write scripts to automate repetitive tasks. Their expertise ensures the reliability and efficiency of systems that rely on the Linux operating system.

What is the difference between Linux Engineer vs System Administrator?

AspectLinux EngineerSystem Administrator
CredentialsLinux certifications (e.g., RHCE, CompTIA Linux+)IT certifications, often including Linux certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on Linux systems, scripting, and automationManage overall IT infrastructure, including networks and servers
Employer & IndustryTech companies, data centers, cloud providersEnterprises, government agencies, organizations with IT infrastructure
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working with Linux systems, a Linux Engineer specializes in designing, implementing, and maintaining Linux-based solutions, often with scripting and automation skills. A System Administrator manages a broader range of IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, and user support. The roles overlap in Linux knowledge but differ in scope and focus.

More about Linux Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Linux Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Engineer jobs in California? For Linux Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Linux Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Linux Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Engineer jobs in CA? For Linux Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 3% Temporary, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,620 per year, or $59 per hour.

Senior Linux Kernel Engineer - 'Linux Kernels'

ph7

San Jose, CA

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description

A Network Processor Company

Job Description
San Jose, CA, United States

Job Description:
Responsibilities include the design and development of Linux and simple executive (bare metal) device drivers which involves:

  • Adding support for OCTEON III Processor (48 64-bit CPUs, 100Gbps traffic handling.
  • Virtualization support (NUMA, etc).
  • Projects on current generation OCTEONs (OCTEON, OCTEON Plus and OCTEON II).

 

Qualifications

Required:

  • BS with 7 -12 years of relevant experience.
  • Should have experience adding support for new HW platforms and devices to the Linux kernel.
  • Detailed knowledge of Linux kernel internals and device drivers.
  • Ability to work with low level HW and debug issues using kernel debuggers and EJTAG probes.
  • Familiar with at least one processor assembly language (MIPS, ARM, x86 or Power PC).
  • Outstanding programming skills in C.
  • Should have the ability to prepare and submit patches to the Linux kernel mainline.
  • A history of participation in Linux kernel mailing lists and open source development a huge plus.

Apply