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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Work across layers from the Linux kernel to core edge systems such as Varnish and WebAssembly ... Most Staff Engineers at Fastly have at least 7 years of domain relevant engineering experience.

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Linux Kernel Developer information

See Colorado salary details

$106.2K

$156.7K

$185.1K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Colorado is $156,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,500.00 and $173,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Linux Kernel Developers face when integrating new features or patches?

Linux Kernel Developers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility with a wide range of hardware architectures and maintaining stability across diverse distributions. Integrating new features or patches requires rigorous code review, thorough testing, and clear communication with the broader open-source community. Developers must also keep up with the kernel's fast-paced development cycles and adhere to strict coding standards, which can be demanding but offers significant opportunities for learning and professional growth.

What Does a Linux Kernel Developer Do?

A Linux kernel developer uses computer code to create a program that functions as the core of a computer operating system. Your duties can include creating kernels for open-source operating systems for desktop computers, laptops, phones, and tablets. You can also develop programs for embedded systems for routers, smart devices, or automated machinery. Linux uses C programming languages, so you often write code in C and C++. In addition to your coding responsibilities, you also test and debug your programs. Your employer may ask you to develop applications, drivers, and other tools to use with your kernel.

What does a Linux Kernel Developer do?

A Linux Kernel Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the core part of the Linux operating system known as the kernel. Their work involves writing and reviewing code, debugging issues, implementing new features, and ensuring the kernel remains efficient and secure. They also collaborate with the open-source community to contribute patches and updates. Linux Kernel Developers play a crucial role in supporting hardware compatibility and system performance across various devices.

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

To thrive as a Linux Kernel Developer, you need deep knowledge of C programming, operating system concepts, and experience with kernel development, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as Git, GDB, build systems, and patch submission processes, as well as experience contributing to open-source projects, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for collaborating within the open-source community. These skills ensure high-quality code contributions, efficient troubleshooting, and successful integration with the broader Linux ecosystem.

What is the difference between Linux Kernel Developer vs Linux Device Driver Developer?

AspectLinux Kernel DeveloperLinux Device Driver Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in C, Linux kernel development experience, often a degree in Computer Science or related fieldSimilar credentials, with focus on device-specific programming and hardware knowledge
Work EnvironmentDeveloping and maintaining core kernel components, often in a Linux environmentWriting and debugging drivers for specific hardware devices within Linux
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, open-source projects, hardware manufacturersHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, specialized device companies

While both roles require strong C programming skills and Linux knowledge, Linux Kernel Developers focus on core kernel development, whereas Linux Device Driver Developers specialize in creating drivers for hardware components. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus within the Linux ecosystem.

What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in CO? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,741 per year, or $75.4 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Principal Linux Kernel DeveloperThis role has been designed as 'Hybrid' with an expectation that you will work on average 2 days per week from an HPE office.

Who We Are:

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is the global edge-to-cloud company advancing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, protect, analyze, and act on their data and applications wherever they live, from edge to cloud, so they can turn insights into outcomes at the speed required to thrive in today's complex world.Our culture thrives onfinding new and better ways to accelerate what's next.We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs.We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good. If you are looking to stretch and grow your career our culture will embrace you.Open up opportunities with HPE.

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead architecture and design of Linux kernel components including filesystems, memory management, networking, and I/O subsystems.
  • Drive performance optimization, scalability improvements, and reliability across the storage stack.
  • Debug and resolve complex kernel-level issues including system crashes, memory corruption, and performance bottlenecks.
  • Provide technical leadership through design reviews, mentoring, and establishing engineering best practices.
  • Collaborate across storage, networking, firmware, and hardware teams to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Engage with upstream open-source communities (e.g., Linux kernel, Lustre) and contribute patches and reviews.
  • Lead root-cause analysis and resolution of critical customer issues and escalations.
  • Define and influence long-term architectural direction for HPE storage platforms.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 8-12+ years of experience in systems or kernel-level software development.
  • Expert-level proficiency in C programming.
  • Deep expertise in Linux kernel internals (e.g., memory management, filesystems, networking, block I/O).
  • Strong experience debugging kernel using tools such as crash, perf, ftrace, and tracepoints.
  • Experience with distributed systems or storage platforms.
  • Proven technical leadership and ability to influence architecture and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills within global engineering organizations.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with distributed storage systems such as Lustre, Ceph, or DAOS.
  • Experience contributing to upstream Linux kernel or open-source projects.
  • Knowledge of HPC environments and high-performance computing architectures.
  • Familiarity with RDMA, InfiniBand, or high-speed interconnects.
  • Experience with CI/CD, testing automation, and performance benchmarking.
  • Experience handling customer escalations and production system issues.

What We Can Offer You:

Health & Wellbeing

We strive to provide our team members and their loved ones with a comprehensive suite of benefits that supports their physical, financial and emotional wellbeing.

Personal & Professional Development

We also invest in your career because the better you are, the better we all are. We have specific programs catered to helping you reach any career goals you have - whether you want to become a knowledge expert in your field or apply your skills to another division.

Unconditional Inclusion

We are unconditionally inclusive in the way we work and celebrate individual uniqueness. We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good.

Let's Stay Connected:

Follow @HPECareers on Instagram to see the latest on people, culture and tech at HPE.

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Job:

Engineering

Job Level:

TCP_05"The expected salary/wage range for this position is provided below. Actual offer may vary from this range based upon geographic location, work experience, education/training, and/or skill level.
- United States of America: Annual Salary USD 160,000 - 303,000 in Colorado // 152,000 - 349,000 in Minnesota
The listed salary range reflects base salary. Variable incentives may also be offered."

Information about employee benefits offered in the US can be found at https://myhperewards.com/main/new-hire-enrollment.html

The estimated job application period closure is August 28 2026; this timeline is provided for transparency and internal planning purposes.

HPE is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or any other protected category, and all decisions we make are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Our goal is to be one global team that is representative of our customers, in an inclusive environment where we can continue to innovate and grow together. Please click here: Equal Employment Opportunity.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is EEO Protected Veteran/ Individual with Disabilities.

HPE will comply with all applicable laws related to employer use of arrest and conviction records, including laws requiring employers to consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories.

Recruitment Fraud Alert

We have become aware of an increase in fraudulent recruitment activities in which individuals impersonate our company or authorized recruitment agencies to offer fake employment opportunities. These scams may occur through false websites, emails, social media, or chat-based applications and often aim to obtain personal information or money. Please note that Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and its authorized recruitment agencies/vendors will never charge a candidate a registration fee, hiring fee, or any other fee in connection with its recruitment and hiring process. We also never request personal information such as back account details, Social Security numbers, or national IDs via social media or chat applications.

All legitimate job opportunities will come through official company channels, and candidates are responsible for verifying the credentials of any third party claiming to represent the company. Any reliance on fraudulent communication is at the individual's own risk, and HPE disclaims legal liability for any resulting damages. If you suspect recruitment fraud, do not share personal information or make any payments and report the incident to your local authorities immediately.