ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DigitalOcean

Staff Software Engineer, Kernel

Seattle, WA · On-site

$191K - $239K/yr

Debugging skills with Linux kernel and kernel drivers * Expertise in C/C++ programming and one or more scripting languages * Familiarity with compiler toolchains, build environments * Experience with ...

Avride

Embedded Linux Kernel Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Write, port, and debug complex Linux device drivers for a wide array of vehicle-critical ... Proven, hands-on experience with embedded Linux kernel, including preempt_rt, device drivers and ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

Experience working with kernel modules, drivers, and subsystems. * Strong problem-solving abilities with a "full-stack" systems perspective. Preferred: * Contributions to the Linux kernel or related ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

New York, NY · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

Experience working with kernel modules, drivers, and subsystems. * Strong problem-solving abilities with a "full-stack" systems perspective. Preferred: * Contributions to the Linux kernel or related ...

Avride

Embedded Linux Kernel Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Write, port, and debug complex Linux device drivers for a wide array of vehicle-critical ... Proven, hands-on experience with embedded Linux kernel, including preempt_rt, device drivers and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLinux Kernel Driver Jobs

Linux Kernel Driver information

See salary details

$101K

$149.1K

$176K

How much do linux kernel driver jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel driver 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 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.

More about Linux Kernel Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Linux Kernel Driver jobs? Cities with the most Linux Kernel Driver job openings:
What states have the most Linux Kernel Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Linux Kernel Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Driver jobs are:
Linux Kernel Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% 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

Right Talent Right Now

Houston, TX

$165K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 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.

Apply