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Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Witekio

Embedded Linux SW Engineer (Sr)

Bellevue, WA · On-site +1

$130/hr

Proficiency with Linux kernel and middleware development on ARM architecture. * Experience with ... MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, and ...

Apex Informatics

Software Engineer V

Redmond, WA · On-site

... Linux kernel customization • Experience with Android or Linux performance tools and security models • Former Meta experience is a plus (having worked on product teams or on devices in Reality ...

CoreWeave

HPC Performance Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related ...

CoreWeave

HPC Performance Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related ...

Witekio

Embedded Linux SW Engineer (Sr)

Bellevue, WA · On-site +1

$130/hr

Proficiency with Linux kernel and middleware development on ARM architecture. * Experience with ... MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, and ...

Apple

Compute Runtime Software Engineer

Seattle, WA

$175K - $308K/yr

The Apple Services Engineering (ASE) team is building the next generation cloud compute services ... Cloud security, Container / Linux Kernel security and API security Experience troubleshooting and ...

Amazon

SDE - Embedded Linux, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$147K - $193K/yr

... Linux, Yocto, and/or Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) The candidate should be familiar with ... in kernel programming and/or device drivers, and/or working with peripheral devices. Experience ...

Amazon

SDE - Embedded Linux, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$147K - $193K/yr

... Linux, Yocto, and/or Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) The candidate should be familiar with ... in kernel programming and/or device drivers, and/or working with peripheral devices. Experience ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

... Linux kernel - Scripting (Ruby/Python/Rust) - Strong knowledge of Computer Science fundamentals in ... programming language such as C, C++, Rust, Python or Perl - Ability to take a project from scoping ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$114.9K

$169.6K

$200.3K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Seattle, WA is $169,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $155,300.00 and $187,800.00 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 popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,634 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Embedded Linux SW Engineer (Sr)

Witekio

Bellevue, WA • On-site, Remote

$130/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

WITEKIO is an expert on embedded and IoT software development, with a global system approach integrating the various software layers of intelligent systems, from hardware to the cloud. Low-layer control (OS, drivers, Firmware) and proven expertise in application and interconnectivity are our distinguishing strengths in winning various projects with a high technical connotation.
We are a team of over 160 employees based around the world in France, Germany, England, and the United States.
We accompany our clients from end to end in their projects with tailor-designed services for architectural design, development, and software integration. Present in the automotive, aerospace health, medical and mobility sectors/smart cities, our clients, are, for example, Airbus, L'Oréal, Datalogic, N&W, Continental, and many others.
Find an overview of our projects under witekio.com/case-studies/
Context:
We are seeking a Linux Embedded Engineer to join our team of 20 Witekians, coming from different backgrounds with various hobbies, seniority, and language specialties.
Our team specializes in embedded C / C++, Linux, RTOS, middleware, applications, and cloud technologies. We are involved from the early stages of the project, guiding our customers to fit their needs. We specialize in everything from design to implementation - from creating applications from the ground up to helping customers address complex issues within their existing code bases.
MUST BE LOCAL TO THE SEATTLE AREA
What you will do:
  • Develop middleware based on C/C++.
  • Customize Yocto and Buildroot distributions.
  • Develop device drivers for bootloaders and Linux kernels on various embedded hardware platforms.
  • Develop or customize board support packages (BSP) for our clients' hardware to provide additional functionality, such as software updates, enhanced security, and optimization.
  • Contribute to low-level software architectural discussions.
  • Proactively manage schedules, project requirements, specifications, and deliverables by partnering with your teammates and customers.
  • Participate in project validation, estimation, and project sizing to set expectations with your customers.
  • Enhance your skills by learning from/with your teammates.

We're looking for you to bring:
  • Yocto and C expertise is a must-have.
  • Embedded C++ development experience.
  • Proficiency with Linux kernel and middleware development on ARM architecture.
  • Experience with embedded design, development, and debugging.
  • Ability to communicate technical information clearly and accurately to customers.
  • MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, and 3 year's of experience as an Embedded Software Engineer or related positions.
  • Knowledge of build root.
  • Ability to work remotely and communicate effectively with team members and clients.

We Offer:
  • The opportunity to interact with a highly skilled international technical team from our other engineering offices.
  • 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees and 50% for dependents.
  • Generous PTO - Accruing 25 days per year
  • 401(k) with a 5% company match.
  • Employee referral bonus.
  • Three (3) Witekian days per year to work with any programming language and technology you are interested in

Compensation Range: $130-140K
Technical assessment is required as a first step in the screening process.
Location: USA
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Apply