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

Fortinet

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$157K - $211K/yr

M.S. preferred • Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential • Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers • Experience ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Qualifications Additional Information All your ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Additional Information All your information will be ...

Nvidia

Senior Software Engineer, Networking

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

... developer testing, and post-GA support. * Work in a fast-paced environment of continuous development and deployment cycles. * Craft and implement Linux kernel networking drivers for NVIDIA ConnectX ...

Zealogics Inc

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Zealogics Inc is seeking an HPC Engineer. The primary responsibilities include maintaining and ... Linux kernel, windows server. • HPC Operating System Installation/provision - Windows Server ...

Waymo

Sr Software Engineer, Telematics

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$204K - $259K/yr

Work on a small team of System Software and Linux Kernel Engineers to design, develop, and deploy production-grade system software components for driverless vehicles, from initial prototyping through ...

Nvidia

System Software Engineering Lead

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

... developer * BS or MS degree in EE/CS/CE (or equivalent experience) * Experience doing device drivers and kernel mode software * Direct experience on Linux kernel development with a track record of ...

Zealogics.com

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

HPC Rack, Build, cable, configure, and provision Linux kernel, windows server. * HPC Operating ... Programming language: Python, Shell * Virtualization and containerization * Computer network

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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 Aug 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?

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.

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 88% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $174,947 per year, or $84.1 per hour.

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Fortinet

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$157K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Fortinet is a cybersecurity pioneer with over two decades of excellence, seeking a Principal Software Developer Engineer for their FortiSwitch team. The role involves developing and maintaining software components for networking-related features, ensuring high-quality implementations, and collaborating closely with hardware teams.
Responsibilities:
• Develop and maintain software components on current and future products
• Take responsibility for developing networking-related features for the FortiSwitch Virtual Machine (FSW-VM) product line and the Marvell CPSS SDK work for both VM and hardware.
• Be hands on in bug fixing in current products
• Implement software features of high quality and on schedule
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work closely with hardware teams for features which directly translate to hardware platforms
Qualifications:
Required:
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in Networking related software development
• B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. preferred
• Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential
• Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers
• Experience with Marvell switching ASICs and SDKs in Ethernet switches/routers.
• Experience in developing applications running in a Virtualization environment (KVM & VMware)
• Experience with multi process/thread programming environment
• Experience in implementing L2/L3 features such as STP, RSTP, RIP, OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, LACP, LLDP, QOS, Private VLAN, LAG
• Knowledge of TCP/IP networking, firewalls, switching and routing
• Familiarity with system installations, configurations, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals
• Knowledge of scripting languages: Shell and Python a plus
• Experience with firewalls and embedded systems is a plus
• Knowledge of Linux kernel and driver development is plus
• US citizenship is required.
Company:
Fortinet is a provider of network security appliances that include firewalls, security gateways, and complementary products. It is a sub-organization of Fortinet Federal. Founded in 2000, the company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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