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Linux Kernel Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Etched

Kernel Driver Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and ... Deep understanding of operating system internals (Linux preferred). * Experience with hardware ...

Nvidia

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$143.90K - $189.70K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer to join the Linux networking drivers R&D team. The work environment is versatile, informative, dynamic and challenging as our employees are ...

OpenAI

Linux Kernels Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$342K - $555K/yr

In this role, you'll design and develop Linux kernel components, working at the intersection of ... Design and implement kernel drivers, including for functionality related to DMA, PCIe, NICs, and ...

Etched

Kernel Driver Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain kernel-mode drivers ensuring high reliability, informative debug, and ... Deep understanding of operating system internals (Linux preferred). * Experience with hardware ...

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$99.7K

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How much do linux kernel driver jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel driver in California is $147,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,700.00 and $162,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Linux Kernel Driver job?

A Linux Kernel Driver job involves developing, debugging, and maintaining device drivers that interface hardware with the Linux operating system. Kernel driver developers work with low-level system components, ensuring efficient communication between hardware and the OS. They often use languages like C and work with kernel subsystems, memory management, and concurrency. The role requires deep knowledge of Linux internals, debugging tools, and hardware interfaces. It is crucial for enabling hardware functionality in Linux-based environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Linux Kernel Driver position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Linux Kernel Driver, you need deep proficiency in C programming, operating system fundamentals, and hands-on experience with Linux kernel architecture, often supported by a computer science degree or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like Git, kernel debugging utilities, and version control systems, as well as kernel module development experience, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you work effectively with software teams and hardware engineers. These abilities are crucial for developing robust, high-performance drivers that enable seamless integration of hardware and software components within various Linux environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Linux Kernel Driver developer?

Working as a Linux Kernel Driver developer often involves diagnosing complex issues at the intersection of hardware and software, which can be time-consuming and require an in-depth understanding of system internals. You may need to address compatibility concerns across kernel versions and ensure proper functionality under various hardware configurations. Collaboration with hardware engineers, software developers, and QA teams is common, and maintaining effective communication is key to successful project delivery. Staying current with the Linux kernel's ongoing updates and contributing to the open-source community are also typical aspects of the role.
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Linux Kernel Driver jobs near you

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784 -OJO

Right Talent Right Now

San Jose, CA • On-site

$202.80K - $240.30K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 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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