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Linux Kernel Driver Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure and automated validation to driver enablement, debugging, and production-quality releases. You will ...

The engineer will develop and extend Linux kernel driver code related to PCIe device setup, firmware loading, MHI bus, DMABUF importation, and DMA transfers. Familiarity with SoC systems including ...

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure and automated validation to driver enablement, debugging, and production-quality releases. You will ...

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure and automated validation to driver enablement, debugging, and production-quality releases. You will ...

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure and automated validation to driver enablement, debugging, and production-quality releases. You will ...

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH · On-site

$142K - $263K/yr

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure and automated validation to driver enablement, debugging, and production-quality releases. You will ...

Description VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an ...

VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an organization ...

They are seeking a Senior Linux Kernel SW Engineer to join their server software and solutions engineering team, where the role involves enabling AMD x86-64 architecture features in Linux and ...

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Linux Kernel Driver Developer information

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$101K

$149.1K

$176K

How much do linux kernel driver developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel driver developer 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 does a Linux Kernel Driver Developer do?

A Linux Kernel Driver Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining device drivers that allow hardware components to communicate with the Linux operating system. They work closely with hardware engineers to understand device specifications and write low-level code that integrates hardware functionality into the Linux kernel. This role often involves debugging, performance tuning, and ensuring compatibility with different kernel versions. Developers also contribute to open-source communities by submitting patches and collaborating with other kernel contributors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Linux Kernel Driver Developer?

To thrive as a Linux Kernel Driver Developer, you need strong proficiency in C programming, deep understanding of operating system concepts, and experience with kernel architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with build tools like Make, version control systems (e.g., Git), and debugging tools such as GDB or ftrace is essential, along with knowledge of kernel development processes. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure robust, efficient driver development and seamless integration with complex Linux systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Linux Kernel Driver Developers in their daily work?

Linux Kernel Driver Developers often encounter challenges such as debugging low-level issues, ensuring compatibility across multiple kernel versions, and maintaining code stability when hardware or kernel updates are released. Collaboration with hardware engineers and other software teams is essential, as driver bugs can impact the entire system's performance. Developers typically use specialized debugging tools and must keep up-to-date with the latest kernel development practices to address these issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Linux Kernel Driver Developer vs Device Driver Engineer?

AspectLinux Kernel Driver DeveloperDevice Driver Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires Linux kernel programming experience, C/C++ skills, and sometimes Linux certificationsRequires knowledge of hardware interfaces, C/C++, and driver development, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in Linux OS environments, kernel space development, often in embedded or server systemsWorks with hardware components, embedded systems, or OS layers, often in hardware or software companies
Industry UsageUsed in open-source projects, embedded systems, and hardware manufacturers focusing on Linux platformsCommon in hardware manufacturing, embedded systems, and consumer electronics industries

Both roles involve driver development and require C/C++ skills, but Linux Kernel Driver Developers focus on kernel space and Linux-specific development, while Device Driver Engineers may work across various OS and hardware layers. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and environment.

What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Driver Developer jobs?

For Linux Kernel Driver Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Driver Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,062 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Senior Linux Kernel & Driver Engineer - Automotive Systems

Austin, TX • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to [Austin, TX] three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business if more than 3 days].

Role Details

General Motors is seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to join our team as a Staff Software Engineer, Linux Kernel & Driver Development. As a global leader in the automotive industry, General Motors is committed to delivering high-quality vehicles that exceed customer expectations. This role will be instrumental in the bring-up of next‑generation automotive computing platforms, focusing on Linux kernel development, device drivers, low‑level system integration, diagnostics, and health monitoring for our in‑vehicle infotainment and embedded systems.

Responsibilities
  • Develop and enhance Linux kernel and device drivers, including those for camera sensors, display interfaces, multimedia subsystems, and networking (WLAN, LAN, BLE, BT5.0).
  • Lead system bring‑up activities, including bootloader configuration, camera pipeline initialization, board support package (BSP) development, and low‑level debugging.
  • Integrate and optimise hardware components, including USB, PCIe, I2C‑connected peripherals, and Ethernet interfaces to ensure seamless operation within our embedded software stack.
  • Develop and implement diagnostics and health monitoring solutions, ensuring system reliability, predictive maintenance, and fault detection in critical automotive systems.
  • Analyse and troubleshoot low‑level system issues, particularly in camera interfaces (MIPI‑CSI, ISP bring‑up), high‑speed data buses, and network connectivity.
  • Support manufacturing and production processes, including hardware validation, firmware flashing, and end‑of‑line testing to ensure smooth integration of software into production vehicles.
  • Work closely with hardware teams to validate and debug platform issues, ensuring optimal hardware‑software interaction.
  • Contribute to upstream Linux kernel development and work with open‑source communities where applicable.
  • Define Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) and work towards continuously improving software stability, performance, and maintainability.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field, or work equivalent experience.
  • 8+ years of experience in embedded Linux kernel development, device driver programming, and board bring‑up.
  • Expertise in Linux kernel internals, including memory management, scheduling, file systems and IPC mechanisms.
  • Experience in camera bring‑up, including MIPI‑CSI, ISP tuning, V4L2 framework and image processing pipelines.
  • Strong experience with BSP development, bootloaders (e.g., U‑Boot) and firmware integration.
  • Deep knowledge of communication protocols such as USB, PCIe, I2C, SPI and MIPI‑CSI.
  • Experience with Ethernet interfaces (WLAN, LAN) and network protocols (BLE, Bluetooth 5.0).
  • Proficiency in diagnostics, health monitoring and fault detection for embedded systems.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing and production support, including hardware validation, firmware flashing and end‑of‑line testing.
  • Proficiency in low‑level debugging tools (e.g., JTAG, GDB, ftrace, kdump, perf).
  • Experience with SoC architectures and hardware interaction at the register level.
  • Knowledge of power management techniques, security frameworks and real‑time optimisations in Linux‑based systems.
  • Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to analyse complex system issues across software and hardware domains.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
  • 8+ years of experience in embedded Linux kernel development, device driver programming and board bring‑up.
  • Expertise in Linux kernel internals, including memory management, scheduling, file systems and IPC mechanisms.
  • Experience in camera bring‑up, including MIPI‑CSI, ISP tuning, V4L2 framework and image processing pipelines.
  • Strong experience with BSP development, bootloaders (e.g., U‑Boot) and firmware integration.
  • Deep knowledge of communication protocols such as USB, PCIe, I2C, SPI and MIPI‑CSI.
  • Experience with Ethernet interfaces (WLAN, LAN) and network protocols (BLE, Bluetooth 5.0).
  • Proficiency in diagnostics, health monitoring and fault detection for embedded systems.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing and production support, including hardware validation, firmware flashing and end‑of‑line testing.
  • Proficiency in low‑level debugging tools (e.g., JTAG, GDB, ftrace, kdump, perf).
  • Experience with SoC architectures and hardware interaction at the register level.
  • Knowledge of power management techniques, security frameworks and real‑time optimisations in Linux‑based systems.
  • Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to analyse complex system issues across software and hardware domains.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

Company Vehicle: Upon successful completion of a motor vehicle report review, you will be eligible to participate in a company vehicle evaluation program, through which you will be assigned a General Motors vehicle to drive and evaluate. Note: program participants are required to purchase/lease a qualifying GM vehicle every four years unless one of a limited number of exceptions applies.

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Why Join Us

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We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role‑related assessment(s) and/or a pre‑employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

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