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

CACI International

Software Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

... Linux and/or Unix-based operating systems. More About This Role: You will demonstrate breadth and ... Knowledge of Kernel * Software development skills in current languages such as: C, C++, JAVA ...

IMC

Trading Engineer - Execution

Chicago, IL

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

CACI International, Inc.

Software Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

... Linux and/or Unix-based operating systems. More About This Role: You will demonstrate breadth and ... Knowledge of Kernel * Software development skills in current languages such as: C, C++, JAVA ...

IMC Inc

Trading Engineer - Execution

Chicago, IL · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

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

IMC

Trading Engineer - Execution

Chicago, IL · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

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

Kirkland & Ellis LLP.

AI Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$116K - $144K/yr

Develop and enhance automated pipelines for AI delivery using tools like Azure DevOps, GitHub ... Experience with GPU environments, Linux systems, and frameworks such as LangChain, Semantic Kernel ...

Transunion

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL

$58.75 - $78/hr

... DevOps Director. The Site Reliability Engineering team drives reliability strategy, elevates ... Deep Linux expertise - from kernel internals and system performance tuning to hardening and ...

TransUnion

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58.75 - $78/hr

... DevOps Director. The Site Reliability Engineering team drives reliability strategy, elevates ... Deep Linux expertise - from kernel internals and system performance tuning to hardening and ...

TransUnion

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58.75 - $78/hr

... DevOps Director. The Site Reliability Engineering team drives reliability strategy, elevates ... Deep Linux expertise - from kernel internals and system performance tuning to hardening and ...

Life Fitness

Android Software Engineer II

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$81K - $117K/yr

Experience analyzing logcat, kernel logs, ANR traces, and system-level crash reports. * Strong ... Basic knowledge of the Linux OS is a plus. * Experience with Firebase Crashlytics and Real Time ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

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$104.1K

$153.7K

$181.4K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 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:
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Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Sr Systems Engineer - Hybrid - Greater Chicago Area

Sr Systems Engineer - Hybrid - Greater Chicago Area

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Motorola Solutions rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Company Overview
At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with our people. We're a global close-knit community, united by the relentless pursuit to help keep people safer everywhere. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions foster the collaboration that's critical for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses, and ultimately, safer nations. Connect with a career that matters, and help us build a safer future.
Department Overview
At Motorola Solutions, we help people be their best in the moments that matter. We help firefighters see around buildings and police officers see around street corners. Our work is very meaningful, impactful, and cutting edge and we invite you to explore it.
Motorola Solutions is a world leader in the field of professional mobile communications systems with an impressive heritage of technological innovations and a global base of installed systems. The group's main business is the upgrade of mission critical digital communication systems for Government & Public Safety Communications customers
Job Description
NOTE: Candidate will need to be located in the Greater Chicago, Illinois Area.
This position is a Hybrid work schedule
The Upgrade Team comprises Project Management, System Engineering and Field Engineering personnel working together in a high-performance culture, often with demanding cycle times and high customer expectations because we are working on mission critical communication systems. Our systems are designed around the APCO Project 25 communications standard. The System Engineer will take responsibility for and oversee all technical aspects of the assigned project.
This position is subject to working in high security areas governed by the US Department of Justice's "Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy" and therefore requires successfully passing a more stringent fingerprint background check administered by Motorola Solutions Inc. customers.
This involves:
  • Upgrade of the radio network including servers, network and RF devices
  • Customer presentations
  • Complete system documentation

Qualifications
  • Knowledge in radio communication systems, radio propagation, RF, wireless or broadband/LTE
  • Good understanding, and working knowledge in IP networking, network design methodologies; troubleshooting (Ethernet, TCP/IP, L2/L3, MPLS)
  • Experience working with servers and virtualization such as ESXi, Linux-based Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM), Linux, Windows Server, Active Directory, and Windows Group Policy
  • Direct customer-facing experience is highly preferred
  • Excellent communications skills and the ability to present complex topics to non-technical audiences
  • Willing and capable to lead a project, to be a team player, follow instructions, and identify/manage risks in a project
  • Comfortable delegating tasks to project team members
  • Self-motivated, able to collaborate with members from different organizations, able to provide feedback by writing improved procedures, and able to maintain focus in a pressured environment

Technical Requirements
  • Multi-Vendor Hardware: Hands-on experience with Juniper, Aviat, Cisco, Nokia/Alcatel, Xtreme, and Ceragon networking equipment, as well as HPE/DELL PowerEdge servers and HP Z2/ZBook workstations
  • Networking & Protocols: Deep understanding of switching and routing protocols, including OSPF, ISIS, BGP (iBGP, eBGP, M-BGP), MPLS (RSVP-TE, LDP), and IPSec
  • Systems & Scripting: Proficiency in Windows (Registry) and Linux (Filesystem) environments; ability to read, follow, and automate workflows using Ansible, Bash, PowerShell, and Python
  • Operations & Security: Proven ability to configure and troubleshoot routers, switches, firewalls (ACLs/Policies), and remote access/file transfers (SSH, SCP, Telnet, RDP, SMB)
  • Analysis & Diagnostics: Skilled in using Wireshark for network packet analysis and resolving complex issues like connectivity drops or crashed script executions
  • Certifications: Preferred credentials include CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA-Junos, Nokia NRS1, CCNA, or equivalent industry certifications

Work Arrangement & Travel
  • This role will travel 20% of the time
  • Travel to customer sites will be throughout North America

Target Base Salary Range: $95,000 - $120,000 USD
Consistent with Motorola Solutions values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. Pay within this range varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate.
#LI-NJ1
#LI-HYBRID
Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering or Technical discipline with 3+ years of Engineering or Technical experience
  • OR 7+ years of engineering or technical experience
  • Must be able to obtain a background clearance as required by our government customers
  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely. Employer work permit sponsorship is not available for this position

Travel Requirements
10-25%
Relocation Provided
None
Position Type
Experienced
Referral Payment Plan
Yes
Our U.S. Benefits include:
  • Incentive Bonus Plans
  • Medical, Dental, Vision benefits
  • 401K with Company Match
  • 10 Paid Holidays
  • Generous Paid Time Off Packages
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Paid Parental & Family Leave
  • and more!

EEO Statement
Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally-protected characteristic.
We are proud of our people-first and community-focused culture, empowering every Motorolan to be their most authentic self and to do their best work to deliver on the promise of a safer world. If you'd like to join our team but feel that you don't quite meet all of the preferred skills, we'd still love to hear why you think you'd be a great addition to our team.
We're committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities, or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete this Reasonable Accommodations Form so we can assist you.

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About Motorola Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Motorola Solutions, we believe that everything starts with safety. It's the constant that empowers people to confidently move forward. It can fill a flight or sell out a stadium. It can care for a patient or graduate a class. As a global leader in public safety and enterprise security, we create and connect the technologies that help to keep people safe where they live, learn, work and play. Our integrated technology ecosystem unifies critical communications, video security and access control, and command center software, enabling collaboration in more powerful ways. At Motorola Solutions, we're ushering in a new era in public safety and security. Bring your passion, potential and talents to a career that matters.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1928

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