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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Avionics Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$120K - $171K/yr

Understanding of Linux kernel software and drivers * Experience with Embedded Systems * Fault ... Senior Avionics Test Engineer: $147,600-$209,520

Silvus Technologies

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA

$141K - $185K/yr

Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel driver development. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the ...

Silvus Technologies

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA

$141K - $185K/yr

Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel driver development. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the ...

Silvus Technologies

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$48.08 - $67.31/hr

Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel driver development. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the ...

Silvus Technologies

Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$48.08 - $67.31/hr

Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel driver development. * Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts. * All employment is contingent upon the ...

Vast

Avionics Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$147K - $209K/yr

Understanding of Linux kernel software and drivers * Experience with Embedded Systems * Fault ... Network programming experience * Experience working with satellite communications or telemetry ...

Anduril

Senior Software Engineer, Video

Costa Mesa, CA

$191K - $253K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... MIPI camera bringup (Linux kernel drivers) Anduril is an equal-opportunity employer, and we ...

Anduril Industries

Embedded NixOS Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

As an Embedded NixOS Engineer, you'll be responsible for EW team's software supply chain, build out ... Experience with Linux kernel module development. * Experience with FPGA development. * Experience ...

Anduril Industries

Embedded NixOS Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

As an Embedded NixOS Engineer, you'll be responsible for EW team's software supply chain, build out ... Experience with Linux kernel module development. * Experience with FPGA development. * Experience ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$108.4K

$160K

$188.9K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Irvine, CA is $160,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,500.00 and $177,100.00 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?

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 job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Irvine, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $160,002 per year, or $76.9 per hour.

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Silvus Technologies

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY

Silvus is seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, who will report to the Director of Software Engineering on our Software Engineering team. The successful individual in this role will participate in the development of Silvus' MANET radios and advanced research projects.   This is an opportunity to work on all aspects of the system including device drivers, networking functions and services, encryption, and security features.

This position is fully onsite, Monday through Friday, at Silvus Technologies' Engineering and R&D Office in Irvine, CA, near the vibrant Irvine Spectrum.

The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead the architectural design and development of highly efficient low-latency embedded firmware on ARM-based SoCs (e.g., UltraScale+), and optimizing Linux-based networking stacks for wireless applications.
  • Implementation of the software portion of MAC (Medium Access Control) and mobile ad-hoc networking routing protocols.
  • Network management software and web interface implementation.
  • Implementation of different security protocols and encryption algorithms.
  • Audio streaming and push-to-talk voice application implementation.
  • Analyzing and improving product security and robustness to meet certain regulatory requirements such as NIST FIPS 140-3 and NIAP Common Criteria.
  • Implementation of testing software for product performance and reliability testing.
  • Device driver and board support package development and maintenance for both ARM and RISC-V based systems.
  • Linux system customization and scripting.
  • Perform other related duties of which the above are representative.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or relevant engineering fields.
  • 8+ years of relevant embedded system software development experience.
  • Demonstrated hands-on and lead expertise designing and developing embedded firmware using embedded Linux on ARM processors, for networking, signal processing and/or wireless applications
  • Expertise in C programming and experience in Linux kernel driver development.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
  • All employment is contingent upon the successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of and experience with different security protocols and encryption algorithms such as suite of CNSA algorithms.
  • Demonstrated experience with socket programming and various Internet/Ethernet protocols.
  • Understanding of MAC and Networking layer of a communication system.
  • Experience in AMD UltraScale+ MPSoC and Microchip Polarfire SoC BSP support package development.
  • Deep understanding of Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), network protocols, data authentication and encryption.
  • Linux Interrupt Service Routine development.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Office environment.
  • Occasional exposure to heat, cold, and allergens while performing tests or demonstrations in the field.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:
    • Lift equipment up to 20 lbs. for the set-up of demonstrations and testing.
    • Perform bending and reaching movements to place items on lower and higher shelves.
    • Kneeling or squatting to access lower shelves.
    • Walking/Moving in the labs.

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