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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

Amsys Innovative Solutions

AI Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience with Docker, Kubernetes (AKS), Linux, CI/CD, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, and Terraform/Bicep. * Knowledge of AI evaluation, performance tuning, LangChain, Semantic Kernel, and Azure ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Houston, TX

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$96.5K

$142.3K

$168.1K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Houston, TX is $142,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,400.00 and $157,600.00 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 Houston, TX? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Houston, TX? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 93% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,350 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Senior Embedded Linux Engineer

Robotics Prcocess Automation, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a Senior Embedded Linux Engineer to join our engineering team and play a critical role in developing the software and firmware that powers drone systems. You’ll design, optimize, and maintain embedded Linux solutions for drone operations, working closely with robotics, hardware, and cloud engineering teams. This is a hands‑on role for an experienced engineer who thrives in fast‑paced environments, loves solving hard technical problems, and wants their work to directly impact public safety.

Key Responsibilities
  • Own Linux kernel CI/CD, cross compilation, and modification pipeline
  • Contribute to system software and hardware architecture decisions, ensuring scalability, reliability, and safety in mission‑critical applications.
  • Integrate new software systems within an embedded Linux system.
  • Integrate new hardware systems within an embedded Linux system by modifying or writing drivers.
  • Debug, profile, and test systems to ensure performance and reliability.
  • Collaborate with robotics, hardware, and cloud teams to integrate new features.
Required
  • Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
  • 3+ years of professional experience in embedded Linux systems development.
  • Experience with embedded Linux platforms (Nvidia Jetson, Qualcomm RB5, NXP i.MX, or similar).
  • Experience in Linux kernel modification, kernel module creation, and driver debugging.
  • Writing and modifying Linux drivers.
  • Familiarity with wireless driver stacks (Wi‑Fi/BT/LTE).
  • Solid understanding of MIPI CSI interfaces, camera sensor integration, and V4L2 pipeline.
  • Proficient with embedded toolchains, cross‑compiling, and kernel/boot‑loader customization.
  • Comfortable working with hardware prototypes, schematics, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers.
  • Eligibility to work in the U.S.
Preferred
  • 5+ years of professional experience in embedded Linux systems development.
  • Experience with custom PCB bring‑up and low‑level hardware debugging.
  • Familiarity with sensor initialization via I2C/SPI/CANBUS and power sequencing.
  • Experience with camera tuning (gain, exposure, white balance) or GStreamer pipelines.
  • Proficiency with Yocto or Buildroot for embedded Linux build automation.
  • Experience with JTAG/SWD debuggers, bootloader recovery, or automated hardware tests.
  • Knowledge of edge AI model deployment.
  • Familiarity with USB SuperSpeed, Linux gadget drivers, and PCIe peripherals.
  • Experience working with mobile or IoT Linux devices.

ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC is an equal opportunity employer inclusive of female, minority, disability and veterans (M/F/D/V). Hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, termination and all other employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, national origin, citizenship/immigration status, veteran status or any other protected status. ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC will not make any posting or employment decision that does not comply with applicable laws relating to labor and employment, equal opportunity, employment eligibility requirements or related matters. Nor will ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC require in a posting or otherwise U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency in the U.S. as a condition of employment except as necessary to comply with law, regulation, executive order, or federal, state, or local government contract.

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