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

GDH

Senior Systems Engineer (Linux)

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$55 - $60/hr

... kernel tuning considerations. * Architect and deploy high-availability Linux clusters, failover ... engineering solutions. * Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, deployment guides, and ...

Onyx Point, Inc.

Reverse Engineer 2-TG

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

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD · On-site

... 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 ...

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD

... 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 ...

TekSynap

Linux OS Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

They are seeking a Linux OS Engineer to build, harden, and sustain mission-critical Linux platforms ... patching and kernel updates with maintenance windows and rollback plans; validate health post ...

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

Linux Kernel Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$114.3K

$168.8K

$199.3K

How much do linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel developer in Washington, DC is $168,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,500.00 and $186,800.00 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?

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 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:
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,827 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer (Linux)

GDH

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$55 - $60/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Role Summary
A highly skilled Senior Systems Engineer specializing in Linux infrastructure is sought to support critical modernization initiatives and platform engineering activities. This senior-level position involves designing, developing, and maintaining secure, high-availability enterprise Linux architectures within a hybrid environment. The role requires expertise in Linux system administration, automation, and security hardening to ensure robust infrastructure operations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the engineering, technical planning, and execution of modernizing legacy infrastructure into scalable Linux-based enterprise architectures.
  • Configure, optimize, and manage enterprise-grade Linux distributions, specifically Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), across hybrid cloud environments.
  • Analyze and address operating system performance, resource allocation, storage management, and kernel tuning considerations.
  • Architect and deploy high-availability Linux clusters, failover mechanisms, and automated backup solutions.
  • Develop automated configuration management scripts and infrastructure as code (IaC) to streamline deployment processes.
  • Build and maintain secure pipelines and infrastructure for integration with enterprise data tools.
  • Conduct root cause analysis, performance monitoring, and security hardening on Linux systems and servers.
  • Identify and mitigate architectural vulnerabilities during system migrations through targeted engineering solutions.
  • Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, deployment guides, and infrastructure topology diagrams.
  • Collaborate on performance optimization, security compliance, and system troubleshooting to ensure system integrity.

Qualifications

  • High School diploma with 9+ years of related experience or equivalent.
  • Active DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+).
  • Recognized Linux certification such as RHCE or RHCSA.
  • Extensive experience in Linux system administration, configuration, and troubleshooting for enterprise environments.
  • Hands-on experience with automation tools such as Ansible, Bash, Python, or Puppet for systems orchestration.
  • Proven ability to implement DISA STIGs and security hardening standards on Linux platforms.
  • This position requires eligibility for a U.S. Government security clearance. In accordance with federal law, U.S. citizenship is required. Active Secret security clearance required.
  • Strong understanding of enterprise Linux performance tuning, storage management, and network configuration.
  • Experience with virtualization (VMware vSphere) or cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure) is preferred.
  • Familiarity with developing or utilizing integrations and data connectors for data governance platforms is advantageous.

Publishing Pay Range: $55.00 - $60.00 hourly
This position offers a hybrid schedule, with time split between the office and remote work.

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