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

Nutanix

NIC Device Driver Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

NIC Device Driver Test Engineer (Linux Kernel / Networking) 📍 San Jose, CA (Hybrid - 3 days onsite minimum) ⏱ Contract (Initial ~4-6 weeks with strong potential to extend) Nutanix is looking for ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

See Sunnyvale, CA salary details

$118.5K

$174.9K

$206.6K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Sunnyvale, CA is $174,947.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $160,200.00 and $193,700.00 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, 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 Sunnyvale, CA? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA are:
What cities near Sunnyvale, CA are hiring for Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Sunnyvale, CA with the most Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Sunnyvale, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $174,947 per year, or $84.1 per hour.
Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology-and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you'll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.
We are looking for a Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer to join the Linux networking drivers R&D team. The work environment is versatile, informative, dynamic and challenging as our employees are currently working on innovative, next-generation network interface card at the forefront of technology.
What you'll be doing:
  • Being part of the Linux kernel group, working on developing the device driver for our NICs.
  • Integration and optimization of existing products and solutions with our software stack and hardware capabilities.
  • Crafting and developing components of the network, security, and storage software stacks.
  • Driving a complete engineering process, including refining requirements, engineering design of data structures/algorithms, implementation, peer review, developer testing, and post-GA support.
  • Drive complex technical issues to closure that may occur in the cross-team boundary.

What we need to see:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, or equivalent experience
  • 8+ years of proven experience in the field
  • Extensive experience with Linux is required
  • Experience with kernel-level programming is required
  • Deep understanding of the system software stack, with a focus on software/hardware interaction, including platform firmware, device drivers, Linux kernel, and how user-space applications utilize system services to achieve high performance
  • Knowledge of Network Protocols such as TCP/IP and RDMA
  • Strong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skills
  • Deep knowledge of computer architecture and operating systems

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
  • Open source code contributor
  • A Master's or equivalent experience in Computer Science is a plus
  • Hands-on expertise with RDMA

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, we are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our exclusive engineering teams are rapidly growing. If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear from you.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until March 26, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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