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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

* Senior Linux Systems Engineer - (Kernel & Performance) * New York, NY (Hybrid, 3 days in office) * Highly competitive compensation package Join an elite technology and research group at the forefront ...

... kernel panics and system hangs Analyzing performance issues Fine-tuning processes to run with the ... Hat Linux systems Taking a role in researching, testing, recommending, implementing, and ...

Knowledge of the Linux kernel and kernel modules Familiarity with open source tools, monitoring systems Experience with Web server administration (Apache) Experience configuring Tomcat/JBoss ...

... Linux kernel and kernel modules • Familiarity with open source tools, monitoring systems • Experience with Web server administration (Apache) • Experience configuring Tomcat/JBoss • ...

Leading a team of HPC engineers \n * Promote and assist with migrations to new technologies to ... kernel modification \n * Server BIOS configuration and optimization \n * At least 10 years of ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

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$110.5K

$163.1K

$192.6K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in New York is $163,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,300.00 and $180,500.00 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 New York?

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

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

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

What cities in New York are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in New York 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 $163,079 per year, or $78.4 per hour.

Senior Systems Developer - Linux Kernel & Performance

Elliot Partnership

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

  • Senior Linux Systems Developer - Quant Systems (Kernel & Performance)
  • New York, NY (Hybrid, 3 days in office)
  • Highly competitive compensation package

Join an elite technology and research group at the forefront of global finance, where world-class engineering and quantitative research converge to solve some of the most complex problems in any industry. Their teams are composed of passionate problem-solvers who operate in a dynamic, large-scale, low-latency IT environment. We are seeking a visionary engineer to drive deep optimization and development within the Linux operating system, ensuring the firm's complex trading and research platforms operate with maximum performance and efficiency.
The Role
We are seeking a deeply experienced Senior Linux Systems Developer for our Quant Systems team. This is a crucial, hands-on role for a true low-level systems expert who thrives on optimizing performance at the operating system level. You will be a key technical leader responsible for tuning, analyzing, and developing components within the Linux kernel and user space to support our most demanding HPC and low-latency workloads. You will act as a force multiplier by solving the most challenging performance bottlenecks, mentoring other engineers, and setting the standard for deep systems expertise.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and execution of high-impact projects focused on optimizing the performance and reducing the latency of our core Linux-based HPC and trading infrastructure.
  • Develop, debug, and maintain low-level systems software, potentially including kernel modules, eBPF programs, or performance analysis tools, primarily using C, Go, or Python.
  • Serve as a senior escalation point for the most complex Linux systems issues, diagnosing and resolving deep technical challenges related to kernel behavior, performance anomalies, and hardware/OS interactions.
  • Drive the architecture for ultra-performant Linux environments, making key design decisions for production systems based on deep OS-level knowledge.
  • Mentor and guide other engineers, championing best practices in low-level systems development, performance tuning, and diagnostics.

Your experience:
  • 11+ years of experience in a senior systems development or performance engineering role with a track record of success in complex, performance-critical Linux environments.
  • Expert-level proficiency in C or Go, with significant experience in Python also valued; proven track record of developing systems-level software (not just scripting).
  • Deep, hands-on expertise with the Linux operating system internals, including kernel tuning, debugging (gdb, perf, strace), eBPF, and systems administration in a large-scale, performance-sensitive environment.
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical projects, driving deep architectural decisions, and mentoring other engineers in systems programming or performance analysis.
  • Strong knowledge of configuration management tools (e.g. Ansible, Salt) and CI/CD concepts.
  • Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex low-level concepts to a variety of audiences.