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

Develop and maintain kernel and user-level software and scripts. * Contribute to research reports ... Experience developing software using Linux GCC compilers and related build and debugging tools.

Site Reliability Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$54.75 - $72.75/hr

... DevOps practices, raising the bar on what's possible with automation by embracing a model-driven ... To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong background in Linux, Python, networking, and ...

... Windows/Linux/Cisco), and kernel-level debugging. Implementation of Emerging Tech: * Execute the ... Performance Engineering: * Conduct stress tests and load balancing optimizations on the agency ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$99.1K

$146.2K

$172.7K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Atlanta, GA is $146,229.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,900.00 and $161,900.00 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Atlanta, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 63% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $146,229 per year, or $70.3 per hour.
Software Engineer - ASL - Open Rank

Software Engineer - ASL - Open Rank

Georgia Tech Research Institute

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Georgia Tech rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Summary:
The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is the nonprofit, applied research division of the Georgia Institute of Technology. They are seeking a Software Engineer who will design, develop, and test software applications and products, manage software development teams, and provide technical leadership in the field of autonomous systems.
Responsibilities:
• Perform software development, debugging, modification, enhancement, and documentation.
• Design, test, and develop computer software in order to meet program requirements.
• Develop and maintain kernel and user-level software and scripts.
• Contribute to research reports, presentations, white papers, and competitive proposals.
• Create and analyze network protocols.
• Develop software requirements and design.
• Develop software using approved coding standards and processes.
• Provide software development estimates.
• Ensure software is developed to meet military, safety, and security standards.
• Create and deliver technical presentations.
• Act as the software technical focal to sponsors for assigned projects.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Experience developing software for complex systems using disciplined approaches and processes.
• Experience developing software in C/C++ languages.
• Experience with common scripting languages, including bash and Python.
• Experience developing software using Linux GCC compilers and related build and debugging tools.
• Experience developing software on Linux and deploying to Linux target systems.
• Familiar with multi-threaded and multi-process concepts and applications.
• Familiar with or aware of common software IPC mechanisms, such as shared memory, pub-sub messaging, or RPC.
• U.S. Citizenship Requirements: Due to our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be U.S. Citizens.
• Clearance Type Required: Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain an active security clearance.
Preferred:
• Active Secret Clearance.
• Experience developing software for complex military systems using disciplined approaches and processes.
• Experience developing embedded software.
• Experience with containerized software development.
• Experience with multi-threaded and multi-process software development.
• Experience developing software for autonomous unmanned aircraft systems (UAS/UAV).
• Experience developing software for autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USV), unmanned ground vehicles (UGV), unmanned under systems (UUV).
• Experience developing software for payloads on unmanned autonomous systems.
• Experience developing and integrating software interfaces to sensors systems (EW, EO, ATR, ML, etc.).
• Experience with development of secure and/or safety critical systems.
• Experience with avionics data buses (MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, Ethernet, RS-422, etc.), tactical data links, military radios.
• Experience with military relevant open software standards and frameworks (MOSA software, FACE, OMS, VICTORY, etc.).
• Experience with Jira, Confluence, Git.
• Experience with VMs, containers; SITL, HITL.
• Experience with DevOps, DevSecOps, CI/CD.
Company:
The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) is the nonprofit, applied research organization of the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). Founded in 1937, the company is headquartered in Atlanta, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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About Georgia Tech

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Georgia Tech is a top-ranked public research university situated in the heart of Atlanta, a diverse and vibrant city with great economic and cultural strengths. The Institute is a member of the University System of Georgia, the Georgia Research Alliance, and the Association of American Universities. Georgia Tech prides itself on its technology resources, collaborations, high-quality student body, and its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

Year founded

1888

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