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

Freddie Mac

Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Mclean, VA · On-site

... kernel patching, maintenance, and systems integration. * Automation development experience including application of Infrastructure as Code and DevOps principles using SDLC best practices.

Nwis

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · Hybrid

Optimizesystem performance through kernel tuning, performance profiling, and resource optimization ... Knowledge of DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code methodologies. * Ability to operate ...

Nightwing

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Optimize system performance through kernel tuning, performance profiling, and resource optimization ... Knowledge of DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code methodologies. * Ability to operate ...

Onyx Point, Inc.

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

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 ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Annapolis Junction, MD

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

... kernel updates, service configurations, and performance tuning * Troubleshoot complex Linux OS ... Maintain engineering documentation, SOPs, OS build artifacts, and configuration guidance required ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Springfield, VA

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

... kernel updates, service configurations, and performance tuning * Troubleshoot complex Linux OS ... Maintain engineering documentation, SOPs, OS build artifacts, and configuration guidance required ...

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 ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Washington, DC

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

... kernel updates, service configurations, and performance tuning * Troubleshoot complex Linux OS ... Maintain engineering documentation, SOPs, OS build artifacts, and configuration guidance required ...

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Linux Kernel Developer information

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$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:
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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 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.
Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Freddie Mac

Mclean, VA

Other

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

At Freddie Mac, our mission of Making Home Possible is what motivates us, and it's at the core of everything we do. Since our charter in 1970, we have made home possible for more than 90 million families across the country. Join an organization where your work contributes to a greater purpose.
Position Overview:
Our constantly evolving IT department is in search of a Senior Engineer of Infrastructure Engineering with excellent time management skills and a proven record of setting and meeting results-oriented goals! We're looking for a hands-on experienced engineering professional with a strong engineering mindset who can lead and transform the current environment, automate existing procedures and stay at the forefront of new technologies! This role handles Linux engineering, including developing new solutions, automating controls, ensuring compliance, managing changes, and improving the platform's sustainability, efficiency, security, and value. This individual will have responsibilities across multiple Linux distributions in our on premises and public cloud environments.
Our Impact:
We assure Stability, Availability and Reliability for 1000's of servers to support a wide range of applications in a hybrid Cloud environment while striving to prevent service impacts in a multifaceted and constantly evolving ecosystem. We assure rapid recoverability from any impacts to business and services. We work together to strategize and transform IT with Automation and Process Engineering.
Your Impact:
  • Serve as a key member of the IT Infrastructure Engineering Team.
  • Develop and mentor teams of engineers to proactively ensure platform stability and security.
  • Identify, influence, and implement technology, process, and skill changes to modernize infrastructure.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure clear communication, risk reduction, and accountability for team performance.
  • Apply an engineering mindset to solve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement.
  • Drive automation initiatives to improve efficiency, scalability, and reliability of IT infrastructure.
  • Ensure adherence to security protocols and best practices across all infrastructure operations.

Qualifications:
  • College degree or equivalent experience; advanced studies/degree preferred.
  • Typically, 5 - 7+ years of expert-level experience engineering new technical solutions.
  • Extensive experience architecting, deploying, and managing AWS cloud environments, including EC2, EKS, S3, IAM, CloudFormation, Lambda, and other AWS native services.
  • Experience with Linux engineering, including lifecycle management, kernel patching, maintenance, and systems integration.
  • Automation development experience including application of Infrastructure as Code and DevOps principles using SDLC best practices.
  • Experience with Ansible Automation Platform (AAP) and scripting languages (Python, Perl, Shell, etc.) to automate engineering and operations tasks.
  • Strong communication skills to set clear goals and relay accomplishments to management.
  • Willingness to participate in on-call rotation and provide support during off-hours as needed.

Keys to Success in this Role:
  • Expert in engineering new solutions; elevates team members through mentoring, knowledge sharing, and makes significant contributions to strategy and objectives; provides knowledge leadership across areas of responsibility and thinks beyond individual sphere.
  • Deep expertise in AWS cloud architecture, automation, and operational excellence, including EC2, EKS, S3, Lambda, CloudFormation, Terraform, and Linux.
  • Champions automation as a core strategy for operational excellence.
  • Demonstrates expertise in kernel patching, vulnerability remediation, patching, and strict adherence to security protocols.
  • Proactively identifies AWS cloud optimization opportunities, implements best practices for security, reliability, and cost management, and leads cloud migration initiatives.
  • Stays current with AWS service updates and emerging technologies, continuously improving the team's cloud capabilities.
  • Strong familiarity with AWS security best practices, including IAM policies, KMS encryption, Security Hub, and compliance frameworks (CIS, NIST, PCI DSS).
  • Expertise in vulnerability remediation, patching, and maintaining secure systems in compliance with security protocols.
  • Experience implementing monitoring, logging, and alerting using AWS native tools such as CloudWatch, CloudTrail, and Config.
  • Ability to lead current technical trends and anticipate future technological needs for team growth.

Current Freddie Mac employees please apply through the internal career site.
We consider all applicants for all positions without regard to gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, physical and mental disability, pregnancy, ethnicity, genetic information or any other protected categories under applicable federal, state or local laws. We will ensure that individuals are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
A safe and secure environment is critical to Freddie Mac's business. This includes employee commitment to our acceptable use policy, applying a vigilance-first approach to work, supporting regulatory mandates, and using best practices to protect Freddie Mac from potential threats and risk. Employees exercise this responsibility by executing against policies and procedures and adhering to privacy & security obligations as required via training programs.
CA Applicants: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Notice to External Search Firms: Freddie Mac partners with BountyJobs for contingency search business through outside firms. Resumes received outside the BountyJobs system will be considered unsolicited and Freddie Mac will not be obligated to pay a placement fee. If interested in learning more, please visit and register with our referral code: MAC.
Time-type:Full time
FLSA Status:Exempt
Freddie Mac offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and market-leading benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.
This position has an annualized market-based salary range of $122,000 - $184,000 and is eligible to participate in the annual incentive program. The final salary offered will generally fall within this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the responsibilities of the position, experience, skill set, internal pay equity and other relevant qualifications of the applicant.
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About Freddie Mac

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Today, Freddie Mac makes home possible for one in four home borrowers and is one of the largest sources of financing for multifamily housing. Join our smart, creative and dedicated team and you'll do important work for the housing finance system and make a difference in the lives of others.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1970

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