ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR

The Linux System Engineering team is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing the core Linux kernel, device drivers, and low-level system software ...

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

The Linux System Engineering team is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing the core Linux kernel, device drivers, and low-level system software ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA

$139K - $258K/yr

Join our Linux Kernel Engineering team and play a central role in the reliability, performance, and evolution of Apple's platforms. As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end ...

Team Red Dog

Senior Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$56 - $61/hr

Team Red Dog is hiring a Senior Linux Kernel Engineer for our client, a leading international cloud and software provider and industry-leading technology partner. This hybrid role (Hillsboro, OR ...

Rubix Recruiting

Linux Kernel Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

Embedded Linux - including the build system, kernel configuration, device drivers, boot loader, device tree and filesystem, core application development, network configuration, testing * C, Python

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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 ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

New York, NY

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLinux Kernel Engineer Jobs

Linux Kernel Engineer information

See salary details

$11K

$114.5K

$129.5K

How much do linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel engineer in the United States is $114,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectLinux Kernel EngineerLinux Device Driver Developer
Required SkillsDeep understanding of Linux kernel internals, C programming, system architectureProficiency in C, hardware interfaces, kernel modules, and device-specific programming
Work EnvironmentSystem-level development, kernel debugging, performance optimizationHardware interaction, driver development, testing on embedded or hardware platforms
Industry UsageOperating system development, open-source projects, enterprise Linux systemsHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, IoT devices
CertificationsLinux Foundation certifications, Linux kernel development coursesSimilar certifications, hardware-specific training

While both roles involve Linux kernel-related work, Linux Kernel Engineers focus on overall kernel development and optimization, whereas Linux Device Driver Developers specialize in creating and maintaining drivers for hardware components. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus areas.

What is the salary of Linux kernel engineer?

The salary of a Linux kernel engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior engineers with specialized skills in kernel development and performance tuning can earn higher compensation, often including benefits and bonuses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Linux Kernel Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Linux Kernel Engineer, you need deep expertise in C programming, operating systems concepts, and a strong understanding of Linux internals, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems (such as Git), kernel debugging tools (like GDB or ftrace), and experience contributing to open-source projects are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective written communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with global developer communities. These skills ensure high-quality kernel development, efficient troubleshooting, and successful integration with the broader open-source ecosystem.

What are some common challenges Linux Kernel Engineers face when working on upstream contributions?

Linux Kernel Engineers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex codebases, adhering to strict coding and documentation standards, and coordinating with a diverse global community of maintainers and contributors. Getting patches accepted upstream requires thorough testing, clear communication, and addressing feedback from reviewers, which can be a time-consuming process. However, this collaborative environment fosters strong professional growth and ensures that engineers are constantly learning from industry experts.

How much do kernel engineers make?

Kernel engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in C, assembly, or device drivers can command higher salaries, especially in competitive tech markets.

What does a Linux Kernel Engineer do?

A Linux Kernel Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing the core of the Linux operating system, known as the kernel. Their work involves writing and debugging low-level code, adding new features, fixing bugs, ensuring system security, and improving performance. They often collaborate with the open-source community and hardware manufacturers to ensure compatibility and stability across various platforms. This role requires strong programming skills, especially in C, and a deep understanding of operating system concepts.

What Does a Linux Kernel Engineer Do?

As a Linux kernel engineer, your responsibilities are to develop company or client operating systems that rely on Linux. Your duties involve writing code and working to test and debug the developments you make to the Linux kernel, which is the main component of a Linux operating system. You may check your code for security and ensure that the system interacts effectively and efficiently with software and applications. You may also work on the customization of the system to meet the needs of your employer or client.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior Linux Kernel Engineer with extensive experience, specialized skills in kernel development, and often working in high-demand industries or companies can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such roles typically require advanced knowledge of C programming, system architecture, and often involve leadership or critical system responsibilities.

Are kernel engineers in demand?

Kernel engineers are in high demand due to the critical role they play in developing and maintaining operating system kernels, especially in areas like embedded systems, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Skills in C programming, Linux, and system architecture increase employability, and many organizations seek professionals with experience in kernel development and debugging tools.
More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? The top employers for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Linux Kernel Engineer

Linux Kernel Engineer

Intel

Hillsboro, OR

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Intel rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Job Details:Job Description: 

Job Description

Come join our team of collaborative Linux kernel developers and maintainers. The Linux System Engineering team is responsible for enabling the Intel roadmap by leveraging our Linux kernel expertise to drive Intel optimized system software for the Linux ecosystem. The Linux System Engineering team is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing the core Linux kernel, device drivers, and low-level system software for bare metal and virtualized use cases. This role requires technical expertise or interest in system software development, OS internals, and excellent collaboration skills. We value diverse perspectives and believe that different backgrounds and experiences strengthen our technical solutions. We're committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all team members can contribute their best work. If you're passionate about Linux kernel development and meet most of our qualifications, we'd love to hear from you.

What we offer:

Inclusive team culture with employee resource groups

Flexible work arrangements and work-life balance support

Opportunities to expand expertise across different kernel subsystems

Support for conference attendance, training, and skill development

Mentorship opportunities both as a mentor and mentee

Career growth support and clear advancement paths

Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits

Collaborative environment which contributes directly to the improvement of the upstream Linux kernel project

Key Responsibilities

Development and Engineering:

Design, develop, and maintain Linux kernel features, subsystems and device drivers

Optimize kernel performance for specific hardware platforms and use cases

Independently debug kernel issues including crashes, deadlocks, and performance bottlenecks

Port and adapt kernel code for new hardware architectures and platforms

Collaborate internally and externally to drive upstream able system software solutions for our Linux

Technical Collaboration

Participate in code reviews both internally and on public mailing lists

Provide input for architectural decisions for system-level software design

Collaborate with software and hardware teams on specifications and requirements

Contribute to technical documentation and knowledge sharing

The candidate should exhibit the following behavioral traits:

Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications:

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications


Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field with minimum 4 years of experience in the following:

Experience with system software, OS development experience.
Experience contributing to an open-source project

Experience in C programming and/or debugging tools

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Linux kernel development experience

5+ years of Linux kernel or systems programming experience

Demonstrated upstream Linux kernel contributions

Track record of delivering complex technical projects independently

Experience with kernel debugging tools (GDB, ftrace, perf, etc.)

Experience in the areas of Intel Architecture, memory management, virtualization, performance and scalability, I/O or device drivers.

Experience collaborating with a diverse, distributed team

Detail-oriented with strong debugging and troubleshooting skills

Strong commitment to improving the Linux kernel project and healthy open-source development environments

Experience developing in an open-source environment

Job Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, Oregon, HillsboroAdditional Locations:Business group:The Software Team drives customer value by enabling differentiated experiences through leadership AI technologies and foundational software stacks, products, and services. The group is responsible for developing the holistic strategy for client and data center software in collaboration with OSVs, ISVs, developers, partners and OEMs. The group delivers specialized NPU IP to enable the AI PC and GPU IP to support all of Intel's market segments. The group also has HW and SW engineering experts responsible for delivering IP, SOCs, runtimes, and platforms to support the CPU and GPU/accelerator roadmap, inclusive of integrated and discrete graphics.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $128,880.00-211,200.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will be eligible for our hybrid work model which allows employees to split their time between working on-site at their assigned Intel site and off-site. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

What Intel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Intel logo

About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968

View All Intel Jobs

Apply