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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Perform reverse engineering of hardware components, software applications and operating systems to ... Experience with Linux kernel development, kernel module analysis, device driver development, and ...

CNO Reverse Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$185 - $190/hr

The Level 2 CNO Reverse Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: program in Assembly, C ... Experience with Linux kernel development, kernel module analysis, device driver development, and ...

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

Requirements • Understanding of Linux Kernel and device derivers • Experience reading and ... and developers *MUST HAVE TS/ SCI w/ FSP Benefits PTO: Our variable PTO plan lets you decide the ...

Showing results 41-60

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Maryland salary details

$98K

$144.7K

$170.8K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Maryland is $144,671.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $160,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 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 Maryland?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Maryland are:

What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Maryland are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,671 per year, or $69.6 per hour.

CNO Reverse Engineer

AnaVation

Hanover, MD

$185K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Be Challenged and Make a Difference 
 
In a world of technology, people make the difference. We believe if we invest in great people, then great things will happen. At AnaVation, we provide unmatched value to our customers and employees through innovative solutions and an engaging culture. 

Description of Task to be Performed:

Perform reverse engineering of hardware components, software applications and operating systems to determine functionality, code structure, and circuit design for use in the design and development of CNO tools and techniques. Document and deliver reports, proof-of-concept code, prototypes and hands-on demonstrations. Author and participate in technical presentations on assigned projects. The Level 2 CNO Reverse Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: Program in Assembly, C, C#, C++, Java, Perl, or Python. Administer and use hardware and software reverse engineering tools. Program using CNO tools and techniques. Use software version control tools (e.g., Subversion and CVS). Create and brief technical presentations. Provide written reports, proof-of-concept code, prototypes, and hands-on demonstrations of reverse engineering results. Provide/author and participate in technical presentations on assigned projects.

Required Qualifications:
  • Clearance: U.S. Citizen with an active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance and a Full Scope Polygraph (FSP) completed within the last two (2) years.
  • Location: Full time on-site in Hanover, Maryland.
  • Experience and knowledge:
    • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Intelligence Studies, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline.
    • Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience performing software reverse engineering, vulnerability research, or low-level software analysis supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), or Federal Government programs.
    • Demonstrated experience developing, modifying, and maintaining production-quality software, with the ability to clearly explain software engineering methodologies, design decisions, and implementation approaches.
    • Proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: C, C++, and Python, with experience developing tools, utilities, or mission applications supporting cyber operations.
    • Demonstrated experience conducting Windows software reverse engineering, including analysis of user-mode and kernel-mode applications, Windows kernel internals, and Windows driver development.
    • Experience with Linux kernel development, kernel module analysis, device driver development, and low-level operating system internals.
    • Demonstrated experience performing software reverse engineering as a primary duty, with approximately 75% of previous responsibilities focused on reverse engineering, binary analysis, or vulnerability research.
    • Experience conducting static and dynamic malware analysis, reverse engineering malicious code, and identifying adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
    • Experience supporting cyber operations, with familiarity across the Computer Network Operations (CNO) mission space, including offensive cyber operations, defensive cyber operations, exploitation, and cyber intelligence workflows.
    • Practical experience with exploit development, vulnerability discovery, binary exploitation, or software vulnerability research.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Information Assurance, Intelligence Studies, or a related technical discipline.
  • Professional cybersecurity certification(s) demonstrating advanced knowledge of offensive security, vulnerability research, reverse engineering, or penetration testing, such as:
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN)
  • Demonstrated experience conducting advanced exploit development, vulnerability research, or software exploitation against complex operating systems and applications.
  • Experience supporting offensive cyber operations, cyber capability development, or research and development efforts within the Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), or other Federal Government organizations.
  • Experience reverse engineering sophisticated malware, advanced persistent threat (APT) toolsets, or nation-state cyber capabilities.
  • Working knowledge of current adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), emerging cyber threats, and evolving trends in offensive cybersecurity, exploit research, and vulnerability discovery
Please note: The listed salary range reflects our market-based compensation structure. Final compensation will depend on business needs, local market conditions, internal equity, and the selected candidate’s skills, education, and experience. 
Benefits 
  •         Generous cost sharing for medical insurance for the employee and dependents 
  •         100% company paid dental insurance for employees and dependents 
  •         100% company paid long-term and short-term disability insurance 
  •         100% company paid vision insurance for employees and dependents 
  •         401k plan with generous match and 100% immediate vesting 
  •         Competitive Pay 
  •         Generous paid leave and holiday package 
  •         Tuition and training reimbursement 
  •         Life and AD&D Insurance
About AnaVation 
AnaVation is the leader in solving the most complex technical challenges for collection and processing in the U.S. Federal Intelligence Community. We are a US owned company headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia. We deliver groundbreaking research with advanced software and systems engineering that provides an information advantage to contribute to the mission and operational success of our customers. We offer complex challenges, a top-notch work environment, and a world-class, collaborative team.  
 
If you want to grow your career and make a difference while doing it, AnaVation is the perfect fit for you! 
 
AnaVation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.