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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Burlington

Manager, Linux Platform

Edgewater Park, NJ · On-site

$142K/yr

This leader will manage a team of System Engineers and Administrators, set operational and project ... Experience troubleshooting Linux kernel, authentication, storage, networking, services, and ...

Burlington Stores

Manager, Linux Platform

Beverly, NJ · On-site

$141K/yr

This leader will manage a team of System Engineers and Administrators, set operational and project ... Experience troubleshooting Linux kernel, authentication, storage, networking, services, and ...

Transunion

Staff Site Reliability Engineer

Crum Lynne, PA · On-site

$54.50 - $72.25/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

Crum Lynne, PA · On-site

$54.50 - $72.25/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 ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · Hybrid

$105K - $144K/yr

Collaborate with network, security, and application DevOps teams to design, deploy, and maintain ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · Hybrid

$105K - $144K/yr

Collaborate with network, security, and application DevOps teams to design, deploy, and maintain ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

FreedomPay

Sr. Systems Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Collaborate with network, security, and application DevOps teams to design, deploy, and maintain ... Experience with containerization and Linux operating systems a plus * Ability to work independently ...

All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$96.5K

$142.5K

$168.2K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Philadelphia, PA is $142,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,500.00 and $157,700.00 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
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,462 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Linux Systems Engineer

Ghost Robotics

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Linux Systems Engineer to join our engineering department. In this role, you will be responsible for the architecture, development, optimization, and maintenance of Linux environments that power our hardware infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Linux kernel development, embedded systems, system diagnostics, and infrastructure automation.
You will collaborate closely with hardware, software, and QA teams to ensure seamless integration between applications and underlying operating system platforms, particularly within embedded Linux environments.
Key Responsibilities
Linux Kernel & Operating System Administration
  • Perform custom Linux kernel patching, configuration, compilation, and lifecycle maintenance across multiple hardware platforms.
  • Configure and maintain Linux operating systems for stability, performance, and scalability.
Embedded Systems Integration
  • Deploy, manage, and optimize Linux distributions for embedded hardware architectures.
  • Support and maintain NVIDIA Jetson modules and associated embedded platforms.
Build System Architecture
  • Develop and maintain sophisticated Linux build environments.
  • Manage software dependencies, cross-compilation toolchains, and package management systems.
Network Engineering
  • Design, configure, and troubleshoot complex Linux networking environments.
  • Manage routing protocols, firewalls (iptables, nftables), custom network bridges, and network interfaces.
System Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
  • Perform advanced debugging and root-cause analysis of Linux system issues.
  • Diagnose kernel panics, configuration inconsistencies, and performance bottlenecks.
Infrastructure Automation
  • Design and implement automation scripts for:
    • Software deployment
    • System validation testing
    • Operational maintenance tasks
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with hardware engineering, software development, and QA teams.
  • Ensure successful integration of software applications with embedded Linux operating systems.

Requirements
Technical Skills
  • Strong programming experience in:
    • C++
    • Python
    • Advanced Bash scripting
  • Extensive experience administering and troubleshooting headless Linux systems through the command-line interface.
  • Deep familiarity with a variety of Linux distributions, including:
    • Custom/source-based distributions (Yocto Project, Gentoo, Arch Linux)
    • Enterprise distributions (Ubuntu, Debian)
System Diagnostics & Development Tools
  • Proficiency with Linux debugging and diagnostic utilities, including:
    • gdb
    • strace
    • dmesg
    • journalctl
    • perf
    • Valgrind
  • Advanced experience using version control systems such as Git.
  • Familiarity with industry-standard development tools and editors, including:
    • VS Code
    • Vim
    • nano
Professional Competencies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to create clear and detailed technical documentation for complex system architectures.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience with:
    • NVIDIA Jetson architectures
    • JetPack SDKs
    • Board Support Packages (BSPs)
  • Experience with build systems and utilities such as:
    • CMake
    • Make
    • Ninja
  • Experience integrating embedded Linux systems into CI/CD pipelines using:
    • GitLab CI
    • GitHub Actions
    • Jenkins
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies for embedded environments, including:
    • Docker
    • systemd-nspawn
  • Knowledge of hardware communication interfaces and low-level system integration:
    • I2C
    • SPI
    • UART
    • GPIO
    • Device Tree Source (DTS) modification

Location
Philadelphia, PA. This is a full-time, on-site role. No remote candidates will be considered at this time.
Travel
None required, though domestic and international opportunities exist for engineers who want field exposure.
Compensation
Competitive base salary, full benefits, and a highly motivating equity incentive package. Flexible time off policy. We focus on output, impact, and the ability to work alongside a stellar interdisciplinary team.
Additional Information
Clear standard background checks are required pre-hire, post-hire, and at any time during employment. Permanent U.S. residency is required.

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