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

Reverse Engineer 2

Hanover, MD · On-site

$78K - $250K/yr

Reverse Engineering Experience : Highly Valued as a Foundational Skill (5-years) * Windows SW RE is ... Linux * Kernel Development / Driver Development * 75% focus SW RE * Malware Analysis

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Perform regular system updates, patch management, and kernel upgrades. * Cloud Management: * Deploy ... Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices. * Experience with IaC (Infrastructure As Code ...

Reverse Engineer 2

Hanover, MD · On-site +1

$78K - $250K/yr

Linux * Kernel Development / Driver Development * 75% focus SW RE * Malware Analysis * Vulnerability research and assessment : Reflects cyber focus and familiaritywith the CNO professional ecosystem

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 25, 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 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,827 per year, or $81.2 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer - Infrastructure Engineering (Linux), OS Team

Senior Software Engineer - Infrastructure Engineering (Linux), OS Team

Geico

Bethesda, MD

$75K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


GEICO rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 261 rated insurance


Job description

At GEICO, we offer a rewarding career where your ambitions are met with endless possibilities.

Every day we honor our iconic brand by offering quality coverage to millions of customers and being there when they need us most. We thrive through relentless innovation to exceed our customers' expectations while making a real impact for our company through our shared purpose.

When you join our company, we want you to feel valued, supported and proud to work here. That's why we offer The GEICO Pledge: Great Company, Great Culture, Great Rewards and Great Careers.

Position Summary

GEICO is seeking an experienced Engineer with a passion forbuildinghigh-performance,secure, low maintenance, zero-downtime platforms, and applications. You will help drive our insurance business transformation as we transition from a traditional IT model to a tech organization with engineering excellence as its mission, while co-creating the culture of psychological safety and continuous improvement.

Position Description

Our Senior Software Engineer works with our Distinguished Engineer, Staff Engineers, and other Senior Software Engineers to innovate and build new systems, improve, and enhance existing systems as well as identify new opportunities to apply your knowledge to solve critical problems. You will help in the delivery of high-quality products, unlocking new engineering capabilities..

Position Responsibilities

As a Senior Software Engineer, you will:

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the security, availability, and performance of containerized applications.

  • Contribute to the development of best practices and standards in container runtime technology.

  • Play a hands-on role in the deployment, scaling, and lifecycle management of containerized applications using Docker, Kubernetes, and related orchestration platforms.

  • Collaborate effectively with other technical professionals and teams to ensure seamless integration of container runtimes with the overall technology stack.

  • Implement and enforce security measures for container runtimes to protect against vulnerabilities and threats.

  • Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure the reliability and efficiency of container runtime solutions.

Qualifications
  • Deep Linux knowledge

  • Experience with the Linux kernel is desirable

  • Fluent in one or more of the following languages: Rust, Golang, and/or C

  • Knowledge of Docker, Kubernetes, and related container orchestration platforms

  • Experience with Linux packaging (Debian, RPM, etc.) is preferred

  • Knowledgeof developer tooling across the software development life cycle (task management, source code, building, deployment, test automation and related tools, operations, real-time communication)

  • Experiencein CI/CD pipeline and related open-source tools likeGit/Jenkin/CircleCI/SonarQube

  • Demonstrated ability to design and implement resilient, scalable, and efficientsolutions

  • Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach toidentifyingand mitigating security risks and vulnerabilities

  • Excellent communication skills, able to communicate complete technical concepts to technical and non-technicalstakeholders

Experience
  • 4+years of professional PaaS and IaaS experience

  • 4+years of experience working with Linux

  • 3+yearsof experience with architecture and design

Education
  • Bachelor'sdegree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent education or work experience

#LI-RP2


Annual Salary

$75,000.00 - $215,000.00

The above annual salary range is a general guideline. Multiple factors are taken into consideration to arrive at the final hourly rate/ annual salary to be offered to the selected candidate. Factors include, but are not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the role, the selected candidate's work experience, education and training, the work location as well as market and business considerations.


At this time, GEICO will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position.


The GEICO Pledge:

Great Company:At GEICO, we help our customers through life's twists and turns. Our mission is to protect people when they need it most and we're constantly evolving to stay ahead of their needs.

We're an iconic brand that thrives on innovation, exceeding our customers' expectations and enabling our collective success. From day one, you'll take on exciting challenges that help you grow and collaborate with dynamic teams who want to make a positive impact on people's lives.

Great Careers:We offer a career where you can learn, grow, and thrive through personalized development programs, created with your career - and your potential - in mind. You'll have access to industry leading training, certification assistance, career mentorship and coaching with supportive leaders at all levels.

Great Culture:We foster an inclusive culture of shared success, rooted in integrity, a bias for action and a winning mindset. Grounded by our core values, we have an an established culture of caring, inclusion, and belonging, that values different perspectives. Our teams are led by dynamic, multi-faceted teams led by supportive leaders, driven by performance excellence and unified under a shared purpose.

As part of our culture, we also offer employee engagement and recognition programs that reward the positive impact our work makes on the lives of our customers.

Great Rewards:We offer compensation and benefits built to enhance your physical well-being, mental and emotional health and financial future.

  • Comprehensive Total Rewards program that offers personalized coverage tailor-made for you and your family's overall well-being.
  • Financial benefits including market-competitive compensation; a 401K savings plan vested from day one that offers a 6% match; performance and recognition-based incentives; and tuition assistance.
  • Access to additional benefits like mental healthcare as well as fertility and adoption assistance.
  • Supports flexibility- We provide workplace flexibility as well as our GEICO Flex program, which offers the ability to work from anywhere in the US for up to four weeks per year.

The equal employment opportunity policy of the GEICO Companies provides for a fair and equal employment opportunity for all associates and job applicants regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, disability or genetic information, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local law. GEICO hires and promotes individuals solely on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled.

GEICO reasonably accommodates qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to receive equal employment opportunity and/or perform the essential functions of the job, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship to the Company. This applies to all applicants and associates. GEICO also provides a work environment in which each associate is able to be productive and work to the best of their ability. We do not condone or tolerate an atmosphere of intimidation or harassment. We expect and require the cooperation of all associates in maintaining an atmosphere free from discrimination and harassment with mutual respect by and for all associates and applicants.


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About GEICO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GEICO is built on ingenuity, perseverance, innovation, resilience, and hard, honest work. From its humble beginnings in the midst of the Great Depression to its current place as one of the most successful companies in the nation, GEICO represents a quintessential American success story. At GEICO, we love that our associates are proud goal-seekers, and that's why we believe in celebrating their milestones and rewarding their achievements. Throughout the year we reward performance and accomplishments, host programs that recognize personal successes, and acknowledge innovation, service, and leadership.

Industry

Insurance services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chevy Chase, MD, US

Year founded

1936