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Linux Kernel Driver Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobgether

Expertise in device drivers, Board Support Packages (BSPs), and other low-level systems engineering is a plus. * Experience with Rust, particularly in relation to Linux kernel development, is ...

Waymo

Senior Software Engineer, Linux Kernel

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

You will write Linux Kernel drivers (including creating appropriate user-space APIs) to communicate ... Work on a small team of System Software and Linux Kernel Engineers to develop system software ...

Crusoe

Senior Staff Linux Kernel Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Deep knowledge of Linux kernel internals -- memory management, scheduler, networking, storage subsystems and/or device drivers * Strong C programming skills; fluency in kernel development workflow ...

Qualcomm

$121K - $202K/yr

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 bus ...

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Linux Kernel Driver Developer information

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

As of Sep 10, 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.

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784 -OJO

Greer, SC • On-site

Right Talent Right Now
See more jobs at Right Talent Right Nowexternal

$166K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Description

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784


Job Ref.: 2784

Job Title: System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development

Role: Information Technology

Relocation Available: Yes

Industry: I.T.

Location: South Carolina

Town / City: Greer

Job Type: Permanent full-time

Job description:

Company develops custom system level software, including device drivers, firmware, embedded applications, protocol stacks, board support packages, and custom interfaces. They specialize in wireless communications for military and embedded systems.

They are seeking a talented Software Development professional who specializes in system-level development (device drivers, firmware, embedded systems) to serve as a key member of the engineering team. This individual will be responsible for developing and supporting user mode applications, device drivers, and firmware for a wide variety of systems, including networking and communication hardware and software products. These responsibilities include the design and development of protocols and algorithms for a variety of technologies, including USB, PCI, 802. WLAN, Ethernet, VoIP, Bluetooth, cellular, and broadband communications. This individual must be able to communicate effectively with clients and be attentive to customer satisfaction.

Windows Kernel and/or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.

6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.

6-8+ years of application development experience

Excellent written and verbal communications skills

Strong debugging skills

Superior problem solving abilities 

Ability to work independently or as part of a team

Required Education: Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science. 

Desired Skills (not required)

WinDBG

embedded Linux

Experience with multiple Linux distributions (Montavista, Ubuntu, OpenEmbedded, Red Hat, Buildroot, etc.) 

Embedded Linux development for a variety of platforms (ARM, MIPS, x86, PowerPC, etc.) and board support packages.

Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems).

Experience with real time and multithreaded applications

Experience performing architectural definition, documentation, and development at the system level

Reverse Engineering (IDA Pro, Ollydbg, etc.) 

Communication protocol experience (designing, implementing)

Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems)

Clearance Required: Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen in order to meet the minimum requirement to obtain the required clearance.

Bottom Line Requirements:

1. Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related.

2. Windows Kernel or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.

3. 6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.

4. 6-8+ years of application development experience.

5. US Citizen able to obtain clearance.


Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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