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Linux Kernel Development Jobs in San Diego, CA (NOW HIRING)

Qualcomm

#Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

... Linux Kernel development. Responsibilities : • Develop and enhance features in the Linux Kernel, particularly in areas such as virtualization (KVM), scheduling, and memory management (IOMMU). • ...

Qualcomm

Staff Engineer, Linux Device Drivers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134.80 - $202.20/hr

Experience with Linux kernel driver development, kernel modules, sysfs and debugging techniques * Experience with development in C * Experience with git * Willingness to work in a structured software ...

Qualcomm

#Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111.30 - $166.90/hr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development, especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm

#Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm

Senior Staff Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm

Staff Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm Technologies

#Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm

Staff Engineer, Linux Device Drivers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Experience with Linux kernel driver development, kernel modules, sysfs and debugging techniques * Experience with development in C * Experience with git * Willingness to work in a structured software ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Development JobsLinux Kernel Development Jobs in San Diego, CA

Linux Kernel Development information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$107.2K

$158.3K

$186.9K

How much do linux kernel development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel development in San Diego, CA is $158,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,900.00 and $175,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Linux kernel development?

Linux Kernel Development involves designing, writing, and maintaining the core part of the Linux operating system known as the kernel. Developers working in this field contribute to features, fix bugs, improve performance, and collaborate with a global community to ensure stability and security. Kernel development requires strong C programming skills, understanding of operating system concepts, and familiarity with version control systems like Git. It's a collaborative process, often involving submitting patches and working through public mailing lists. Many contributors work for technology companies, while others participate as independent developers.

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 expertise in C programming, operating systems concepts, and a strong understanding of computer architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, Linux kernel build tools, and debugging utilities such as GDB are essential technical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are key soft skills for navigating complex codebases and working within open-source communities. These skills are crucial for developing reliable, efficient kernel code and contributing effectively to collaborative, large-scale projects.

What are some common challenges faced when working in Linux kernel development, and how can they be managed?

Linux Kernel Development often involves navigating a complex codebase and adhering to strict coding standards. Developers may face challenges such as debugging low-level system issues, managing hardware compatibility, and staying updated with rapid changes in the kernel. Collaborating with a global community and submitting patches for review can also be demanding, as feedback is thorough and expectations are high. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to engage with community resources, participate in mailing lists, and use robust debugging tools while maintaining clear, well-documented code.

What is the difference between Linux Kernel Development vs Linux Device Driver Development?

AspectLinux Kernel DevelopmentLinux Device Driver Development
FocusDesigning, modifying, and maintaining the core Linux kernelCreating and optimizing drivers for hardware components
Required SkillsKernel architecture, C programming, system internalsC programming, hardware interface knowledge, kernel APIs
Work EnvironmentKernel source code, development tools, testing on Linux systemsHardware platforms, kernel modules, Linux environment
CertificationsLinux Foundation certifications, Linux kernel trainingLinux Foundation certifications, driver development courses

Linux Kernel Development involves working on the core system, while Linux Device Driver Development focuses on creating software that interfaces hardware with the kernel. Both roles require strong C skills and Linux knowledge, but kernel development is broader, whereas driver development is more hardware-specific.

What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA?

For Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Development jobs in San Diego, CA are:

Linux Kernel Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Development job openings in San Diego, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,261 per year, or $76.1 per hour.

#Senior Software Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 245 rated software companies

Job description

Job Summary:
Qualcomm is a leading technology innovator that drives digital transformation to create a smarter, connected future. As a Senior Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and optimize software solutions for Qualcomm’s next-generation data center platforms, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams and leading engineering efforts in critical technologies such as virtualization and Linux Kernel development.
Responsibilities:
• Develop and enhance features in the Linux Kernel, particularly in areas such as virtualization (KVM), scheduling, and memory management (IOMMU).
• Optimize power and performance management technologies like DVFS for next-generation ARM-based systems.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure the successful delivery of high-performance, scalable software solutions.
• Debug and resolve complex software issues using tools like JTAG debuggers.
• Contribute to upstream open-source projects, including the Linux Kernel, as part of Qualcomm’s commitment to the open-source community.
• Drive improvements in system software for ARMv8 and ARMv9 based platforms.
• Analyze system requirements, understand and propose corresponding system architecture. Create and maintain technical documentation for system architecture, requirements, and development processes.
• Pre-Silicon Development on the FPGA based platform and QEMU.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 1+ year of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.
• 2+ years of academic or work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Preferred:
• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, with 3+ years of software development experience, or equivalent.
• Strong experience in Linux Kernel development, especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees.
• Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture and its extensions is plus.
• Solid understanding of computer system architecture (core, cache, memory models, bus architecture, etc.). Experience in Board and SOC bringup, Device drivers, peripheral buses (SPI, I2C, USB), Memory controllers for DDR.
• Familiarity with tools like SCM tools (e.g., GIT) and debugging technologies like JTAG debuggers.
• Prior contributions to open-source projects (e.g., Linux Kernel).
• Strong debugging skills and practical experience with ARM based platforms.
• Proficiency in using tools and frameworks for system and software performance management.
• Hands-on experience with software development methodologies for Embedded Systems.
Company:
Qualcomm designs wireless technologies and semiconductors that power connectivity, communication, and smart devices. Founded in 1985, the company is headquartered in San Diego, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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