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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Canonical

Software Engineer - OpenStack

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

This role requires a python software developer with a passion for automating infrastructure as code ... Ubuntu Linux - kernel or userspace, Kubernetes, OpenStack, Ceph, AI/ML, QEMU/KVM, LXC/LXD, Python ...

Quantiq

Hardware Developer- New Graduate

Chicago, IL

... kernel socket engineering. You will own each project you work on and deliver thoughtful and ... Proficient in Basic Linux, including SSH * Interest in writing highly performant code * Excellent ...

Quantiq

Hardware Developer- New Graduate

Chicago, IL · On-site

... kernel socket engineering. You will own each project you work on and deliver thoughtful and ... Proficient in Basic Linux, including SSH * Interest in writing highly performant code * Excellent ...

Akuna Capital

Senior Systems Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$145K/yr

What you will do as a Senior Systems Engineer at Akuna: We are looking for a versatile and driven ... Advanced Linux knowledge including, but not limited to, kernel bypass, kernel tuning, and ...

IMC Trading

Trading Engineer - Execution

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Linux operating systems, network configuration, and server management • Strong understanding of ... and kernel bypass technology • Proficiency in Python and Bash • Demonstrated curiosity and ...

Ecolab

Principal Platform Engineer

Naperville, IL

... kernel upgrades, and OSS note implementation. * Configure and manage Solution Manager technical ... Proficiency in operating systems including SUSE Linux and Windows for SAP deployments * Experience ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$104.1K

$153.7K

$181.4K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Chicago, IL is $153,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,700.00 and $170,100.00 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, 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 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,677 per year, or $73.9 per hour.
#4529 - Linux Engineer - Need locals to IL

#4529 - Linux Engineer - Need locals to IL

Halo Group

Deerfield, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Description

This is a contract to hire role and need local candidates who can do F2F interview.


Qualifications

The successful candidate will have:
BA/BS degree.
5 - 8 years' experience administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) in a medium to large datacenter.
Any combination of education and experience, which would provide an equivalent background.
Comprehensive knowledge of RHEL kernel tuning, security, and diagnostic tools.
Comprehensive knowledge of RHEL patching and software management tools, including Red Hat Satellite, Pulp, or similar.
Experience managing, tuning, and troubleshooting, VMware based virtual machines.
Experience creating, maintaining, and deploying RHEL templates in VMware vSphere.
Experience with Centrify, or other centralized authentication technologies.
Experience supporting fiber channel storage on RHEL.
Experience with HIPAA, SOX, and/or PCI compliance.
Experience working in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment while interfacing with multiple internal clients.
Experience with EMC Networker, EMC Avamar, or other enterprise backup solutions.
Strong communication and documentation skills.
Strong configuration management and automation skills using SaltStack, or similar technologies.
Strong scripting experience in bash, ksh, python, perl
Working knowledge of TCP/IP and related protocols (HTTP, FTP, NFS, etc...)
Working knowledge of MySQL, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, and other databases on RHEL.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Active Directory.
Working knowledge of SELinux.
Desirable Skills:
Experience with DataDomain.
Experience with BMC Remedy.
Experience with Amazon Web Services.
Experience with AIX, and IBM Power7/Power8 systems.
Experience with CyberArk.
Experience with VMware vSphere Integrated Containers.
Experience with Docker Enterprise Edition.
Experience with Dell EMC vRack.
Experience with git, or other revision control systems.
Experience with Vormetric, or other encryption technologies

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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