ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

NewGen Technologies

Linux Developer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... Kernel development experience is desired) * Demonstrated in-depth understanding of low level system development for Linux/Unix internals and APIs * Demonstrated experience working in a cross-platform ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

HawkEye 360

Principal Embedded Linux Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Lead board bring-up efforts, kernel customization, device driver development, and device tree ... Mentor embedded software engineers on Linux internals, driver development, and debugging techniques ...

VTG

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA

Experience with Android/Linux kernel development or driver development. * Experience reverse engineering with Ghidra or IDAPro. * Experience designing embedded software systems. * Experience ...

VTG

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Experience with Android/Linux kernel development or driver development. * Experience reverse engineering with Ghidra or IDAPro. * Experience designing embedded software systems. * Experience ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsLinux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$114.4K

$168.8K

$199.3K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Washington, DC is $168,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,600.00 and $186,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,827 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

VA cleared openings with Security Clearance

The Josef Group Inc.

Chantilly, VA

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

1. Software Cloud Engineer $240K - $260K Chantilly, VA TS/SCI with FSP 2. Windows Kernel Developer (3+ YOE) $210K to $270K Chantilly, VA Top Secret or TS/SCI 3.

Geospatial Data Scientist (3+ YOE) $220K to $240K McLean, VA TS/SCI with FSP 4. Full Stack Developer (8+ YOE) $220K to $240K McLean, VA TS/SCI with FSP 5. Linux Kernel Developer - Top Secret Chantilly or Arlington VA $215K to $275K Rush resumes to Debbie Peda,

Apply