ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

REDLattice

Linux Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Previous experience in Linux kernel development. * Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming. * Expertise with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, x64dbg, and Hex-Rays. * In ...

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

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). • ...

1 point system

C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$53.25 - $72/hr

Must haves 1. Linux Kernal 2. C++ Top 3 Must-Have Hard Skills * Strong experience in Linux kernel development and device driver programming (C, C++) - 5+ yrs * Deep understanding of operating system ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLinux Kernel Development Jobs

Linux Kernel Development information

See salary details

$101K

$149.1K

$176K

How much do linux kernel development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel development in the United States is $149,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $165,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Linux Kernel Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Linux Kernel Development jobs? Cities with the most Linux Kernel Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Development jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs are:
What states have the most Linux Kernel Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Linux Kernel Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Development jobs are:
Linux Kernel Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $149,062 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Senior Linux Kernel Systems Software Engineer - CSP Engagements

Senior Linux Kernel Systems Software Engineer - CSP Engagements

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

NVIDIA is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join our CSP Engagements team, focusing on system software for Datacenter products such as GB200. This role combines deep technical expertise in embedded firmware, Linux kernel development, and middleware development, with customer-facing responsibilities to enable cloud service providers with next-generation computing platforms. You will work at the intersection of hardware and software, driving technical solutions from concept through deployment.
What you'll be doing:
  • Design and develop software solutions for data center servers including Linux kernel modifications, device drivers, and system optimizations for GB200 and next-gen platforms.
  • Lead hardware bring-up activities, BSP development, and hardware-software co-design for Cloud Service Provider deployments.
  • Partner directly with CSPs to deliver technical solutions, co-develop & co-debug features and optimizations, and provide support during new product introductions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams in designing end-to-end solutions spanning firmware, OS, middleware, and applications with focus on AI/ML and HPC workloads.
  • Perform advanced system debugging, root cause analysis, and performance optimization for large-scale data center environments.
  • Collaborate with AE, FAE, and Solution Architect teams to deliver integrated customer solutions and technical documentation.

What we need to see:
  • Deep expertise in data center server architectures, HPC systems, and hardware-software co-design.
  • Expert knowledge of Linux kernel internals, device drivers, communication protocols (PCIe, USB, Ethernet).
  • Deep understanding of computer architecture, microprocessor concepts, and expert knowledge of ARM (aarch64) and x86 architectures.
  • Ability to debug kernel crash dumps and all types of lock-up issues. Hands-on experience with GDB, kdump, and eBPF tracing to debug multiprocessor systems. Good understanding of ARM and Intel assembly.
  • Strong understanding of PCIe virtualization and IOMMU.
  • Deep understanding of NUMA architectures including memory topology, processor-memory locality, and performance optimization for multi-CPU systems in data center environments.
  • Strong programming skills in C/C++, Python, plus experience with virtualization, Kubernetes, and cloud-native architectures.
  • Skilled in complex system-level debugging, performance analysis, and test design.
  • BS or MS in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience). 10+ years of system software development experience.

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
  • Experience with GPU computing (CUDA), deep learning workloads
  • Expertise in Out of Band and In-band management architectures
  • Knowledge of Memory fabric and CXL architectures

NVIDIA is leading the way in groundbreaking developments in Artificial Intelligence, High-Performance Computing and Visualization. The GPU, our invention, serves as the visual cortex of modern computers and is at the heart of our products and services. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people on the planet working for us. If you're creative, hardworking and self-motivated, we want to hear from you!
Do you want to join a team of highly motivated and experienced program managers who drive the successful introduction of NVIDIA's next generation GPU/CPU based products? We work closely with internal leaders in Software, Hardware, Firmware, Marketing and Operations to ensure the SW team delivers outstanding products while operating across multiple functional units and all levels of management to achieve Time-To-Market. As part of the team, your knowledge of driver, firmware, diagnostics and the SW stack development processes and priorities will enable you to swiftly make the course adjustments needed to keep these complex projects on track!
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until June 17, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

View All Nvidia Jobs

Apply