ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Mujin US

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will be responsible for the development and maintenance of ... Preferred : • Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT ...

Mujin

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will play a critical role in the development and ... Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT, Linux boot and base ...

Mujin Corp

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site +1

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will play a critical role in the development and ... Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT, Linux boot and base ...

Mujin Corp

Senior Software Developer - Systems

Suwanee, GA · On-site

$50.75 - $67/hr

The Senior Software Developer - Systems will play a critical role in the development and ... Advanced knowledge in real-time OS, Linux kernel module development, EtherCAT, Linux boot and base ...

Ciena

Senior Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$117K - $155K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering ... Development of Linux kernel drivers and user space drivers * Application of embedded systems ...

Ciena

Senior Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$117K - $155K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering ... Development of Linux kernel drivers and user space drivers * Application of embedded systems ...

Ciena Corporation

Senior Software Engineer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering ... Development of Linux kernel drivers and user space drivers * Application of embedded systems ...

Datavault AI, Inc.

DevOps Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA

$52.25 - $71.75/hr

Administer Linux server nodes end-to-end on the command line: systemd, networking, firewalling ... kernel tuning, troubleshooting production incidents. * Keep the AWS footprint healthy: EC2 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$97.1K

$143.3K

$169.3K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Atlanta, GA is $143,347.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,300.00 and $158,700.00 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?

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.

More about Linux Kernel Developer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,347 per year, or $68.9 per hour.

Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Spectra Aerospace and Defense

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
Spectra Alpharetta is seeking a highly skilled Embedded Linux Software Engineer with deep expertise in the NXP i.MX95 processor family. In this role, you will design, develop, and optimize Linux-based embedded software, including BSPs, device drivers, kernel modules, boot loaders, root file systems and low-level system integrations. You will play a key part in architecting next-generation processing solutions for high-reliability systems in aerospace, defense, medical, or similar embedded environments.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and customize Linux Board Support Packages (BSPs) for the NXP i.MX95 platform, including kernel configuration, U-Boot updates, and hardware bring-up.
  • Design, implement, and maintain Linux device drivers, kernel modules, and hardware abstraction layers.
  • Work with Yocto/OpenEmbedded to build, maintain, and optimize embedded Linux distributions.
  • Integrate and validate peripheral interfaces such as PCIe, I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, and Ethernet.
  • Debug hardware-software interactions using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG, and other low-level tools.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, and engineering during board bring-up, prototype evaluation, and system integration.
  • Develop robust, production-quality embedded applications in C/C++ for ARM-based SoCs.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design artifacts, test plans, and release notes, in alignment with NPI Phase Gate requirements (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR).
  • Ensure software complies with performance, reliability, cybersecurity, and program standards.

Essential Skills
  • Strong proficiency in embedded Linux development on ARM-based architectures.
  • Hands-on experience with NXP i.MX processors (i.MX8, i.MX9 series; i.MX95 highly preferred).
  • Expertise in Linux kernel internals, driver development, and system-level debugging.
  • Fluent with Yocto/OpenEmbedded build environments.
  • Strong background in C/C++ and low-level firmware development.
  • Knowledge of hardware interfaces such as I2C, SPI, PCIe, GPIO, UART, and Ethernet.
  • Experience using JTAG, Lauterbach, or equivalent tools for board bring-up.
  • Solid understanding of embedded system concepts, memory-mapped I/O, and bootloaders.
  • Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.

Experience and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related technical discipline.
  • A Master's degree is preferred but not required, especially for candidates with strong hands-on experience.
  • 7-10+ years of embedded Linux software development experience on ARM-based SoCs.
  • Significant hands-on experience with NXP i.MX processors (i.MX8 or i.MX9 required; i.MX95 strongly preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience developing BSPs, device drivers, kernel modules, U-Boot, and working with Yocto/OpenEmbedded.
  • Strong low-level debugging experience (JTAG, logic analyzers, board bring-up).
  • Experience working in regulated or high-reliability environments (aerospace, defense, medical, automotive) is an advantage.
  • Experience within the defense, aerospace, and/or rugged electronics sectors is highly desirable.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with secure boot, Trusted Execution Environments (TEE), or ARM TrustZone.
  • Exposure to real-time Linux or mixed RTOS/Linux architectures.
  • Experience with GPU accelerated applications on ARM-based architectures.
  • Background working in aerospace, defense, automotive, or other regulated environments.
  • Scripting experience (Python, Bash) for automation and tooling.
  • Knowledge of safety-critical or high reliability software practices.

Personal Traits and Characteristics:
  • Analytical and detail-oriented with strong problem solving skills.
  • Collaborative, communicative, and effective in cross disciplinary engineering environments.
  • Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving technical landscapes.
  • Committed to high-quality, maintainable, mission-ready software.
  • Mission-focused: Dedicated to delivering reliable, high-performance systems that support critical operations.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see, and hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
May require occasional travel (up to 10%) for field service or customer support.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Office environment with temperature control, may be exposed to chemicals related to the manufacturing process. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Sprectra provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

Apply