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

Lockheed Martin

Linux CNO Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $184K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Why the CNO Developer role at Lockheed Martin Space: * Mission critical impact: Develop ... kernel development experience is desired) - Demonstrated understanding of network devices ...

TalentRemedy

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be ... Have designed and implemented device drivers and kernel drivers in linux or RTOS Experience with ...

TalentRemedy

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA

$123K - $151K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Linux Kernel Developer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$103.2K

$152.4K

$179.9K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Fairfax, VA is $152,366.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,500.00 and $168,700.00 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

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For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,366 per year, or $73.3 per hour.

SE Linux Based MLS SME Linux Administrator

Cohere Technology Group LLC

Springfield, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

SE Linux Based MLS SME Linux Administrator
Location: Springfield, VA
Clearance: Must have active TS/SCI with CI Poly to apply
Program Description:
Cohere Technology provides Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) based High Performance Computing (HPC) services through the HPC lifecycle for computational requirements, architecture, acquisition, and operations to federal government customers. Our employees embrace automation, innovation, and are committed to a culture of continuous, standards-driven process improvement and assimilation of industry best practices. CSCF provides key supercomputing capabilities for solving important problems in science and technology. CSCF is involved in efforts to develop scientific software and libraries for HPC platforms. The tasks involve working on cutting edge HPC technologies to ensure that scientists and engineers will be able to fully utilize modern HPC systems.
We are seeking a SE Linux Based MLS Linux Administrator SME for our enterprise MLS configuration team which includes our Centralized SuperComputing Facility (CSCF) High Performance Computing and other contracts.
Summary
You will be an active member of the Enterprise MLS team working many and varied Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) SE Linux based configuration, policy, and development projects including full automation of configuration deployments.
The Enterprise MLS team is responsible for developing all aspects of secure, enterprise level MLS configurations through deployment, training, and problem solutions for deployed configurations. You will work closely with the contract Chief Architect, Dev/Sec/Ops SME/Lead and their teams to ensure the Enterprise MLS product meets requirements and fully support each program's needs.
An individual should have demonstrated his/her problem-solving ability.
We are looking for an individual with a majority of the experience listed.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develops, configures, and maintains integrated Red Hat Enterprise Linux/SE Linux Mandatory Access Control (MAC) configurations across multiple systems, networks, and NAS storage based on current LM configuration approach
  • Work closely with the Dev/Sec/Ops automation development team to deploy RHEL SE Linux MLS configurations based on site specific input files
  • Work closely with the security team to ensure RMF, RTB, and other security controls are met and fully documented
  • Manage impacts to system HPC performance ensuring minimal impacts
  • Apply best practices in software engineering, delivering projects on time and with excellent quality
  • Provide support to staff and end users to resolve issues in deployed configurations
  • Modify existing software to correct errors and/or improve performance
  • Ensure InfiniBand high speed fabrics operate correctly with MAC labeling
  • Ensure MLS networking meets controls requirements

Education/Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or an AIS degree required plus 10 years of experience
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience developing system software in heterogeneous, multi-platform environments
  • Proficiency with all aspects of SE Linux configuration, policy, MAC labeling, Security contexts, debugging policy issues, MLS FreeIPA, MLS Ethernet interface networking, developing least access policies, etc.
  • Proficiency in Bourne/Bash and Expect scripting
  • Proficiency in debugging issues with the Linux kernel including examining source code, system logs, and using tools such a crash and systemtap.
  • Experience with managing Satellite repositories to apply patches and build custom kernels as required to implement functionality or address security concerns
  • Familiarity with automating approaches to configuring and maintaining (e.g. patching) systems using Ansible and Satellite Server
  • Understanding and experience working with identity management systems including LDAP and token-based authentication systems
  • Excellent written and oral communication and people skills; excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze, debug and maintain the integrity of an existing scripting base
  • Demonstrated organization skills to balance and prioritize work, and ability to multitask
  • Demonstrated communication skills to communicate with support personnel, customer, and managers

Preferred Skills:
  • Familiarity with High Performance Computing (HPC) environment and related technologies
  • Familiarity with Infiniband or Omni-Path high speed fabrics, including subnet management, IPoIB and/or IPoOPA mechanisms, fabric topology and health monitoring and integration with MPI
  • Experience with Lustre, NFS, and other direct attach file systems
  • Experience with Ethernet networking
  • Experience with RDMA communications (InfiniBand and OmniPath)
  • Knowledge of Python, Perl, Korn, and other shell scripting
  • Experience with revision control software (CVS, SVN, Git)

Apply