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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Arlington, VA (NOW HIRING)

CACI

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $218K/yr

Linux Systems Engineer Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... kernel concepts, and system architecture Proficiency in Linux system administration, including ...

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD · On-site

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD · On-site

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

TekSynap

Linux OS Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

They are seeking a Linux OS Engineer to build, harden, and sustain mission-critical Linux platforms ... patching and kernel updates with maintenance windows and rollback plans; validate health post ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

See Arlington, VA salary details

$116.2K

$171.5K

$202.5K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Arlington, VA is $171,489.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $157,000.00 and $189,800.00 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.

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The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Arlington, VA are:

What cities near Arlington, VA are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Arlington, VA with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Arlington, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $171,761 per year, or $82.6 per hour.

Classified Linux Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$107K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
Job Summary
We are seeking a Linux system engineer with strong enterprise Linux expertise to support enterprise Linux systems in classified environments. The ideal candidate is familiar with the design, implementation and best practices for managing enterprise Linux systems in a classified environment. The candidate is familiar with system security hardening and can design and implement system management methods to ensure the successful reaccreditation and continued sustainment of classified networks and systems. You'll be working with other corporate IT teams as well as Aerospace engineers to develop and maintain scientific and engineering workloads on-premise and in the cloud in support of mission success of critical national space assets.
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in Chantilly, VA.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Install Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Oracle Linux on physical systems, including implementing encryption-at-rest (LUKS)
  • Provision Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Oracle Linux VMs
  • Patch, reboot, and troubleshoot patching processes (e.g. GPU drivers & kernel modules) and patching infrastructure on large classified networks and in stand-alone (air-gapped) networks
  • Maintain patching infrastructure (e.g. software repository mirrors) in large and stand-alone networks
  • System and user data and configuration backup and restore
  • Provide enterprise Linux troubleshooting, tier 2 and 3 Linux user support including software installation, configuration
  • Support scientists and engineers running workloads and applications on Linux systems
  • Security harden systems and remediate vulnerabilities
  • Monitor availability, improve monitoring, and restore systems and services in a timely manner and improve prevention and reduce future outages
  • Write or improve documentation for processes and procedures

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Site Reliability Engineer Staff II:
  • CompTIA Security+ CE certification or equivalent that meets DoD 8570.01-m requirements for IAT Level II personnel
  • 3 years of experience in Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) or its clones (CentOS, Oracle, Rocky, Alma) Linux systems administration, including provisioning, patching individual systems, troubleshooting, and implement security hardening for enterprise environments.
  • Experience with hardware troubleshooting and configuration
  • Willing to travel occasionally to alternate site (El Segundo or Colorado Springs) work location approximately 4% if required
  • An active IC TS/SCI clearance with CI Polygraph

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, STEM, or IT or equivalent experience
  • Linux certification: RHCSA or preferred Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)
  • Experience maintaining patching infrastructure (e.g. software mirrors) including in standalone networks
  • Experience with Kickstart or other automated Linux provisioning processes
  • Experience automating security hardening to DISA STIGs.
  • Experience and programming skill implementing infrastructure-as-code with tools like Puppet, Ansible, Bash, Terraform, Python

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$107,000.00 - $160,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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