ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

NxT Level

C++ Developer

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$50 - $67.25/hr

... in Linux kernel development is a must - Strong familiarity with the software development life cycle, computer science fundamentals, and object-oriented design principles - Excellent communication ...

NxT Level

C++ Developer

Eden Prairie, MN

$50 - $67.25/hr

... in Linux kernel development is a must - Strong familiarity with the software development life cycle, computer science fundamentals, and object-oriented design principles - Excellent communication ...

Ecolab

Principal Platform Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Proficiency in operating systems including SUSE Linux and Windows for SAP deployments * Experience ... kernel upgrades, OSS note implementation, printer administration, system refresh activities

Ecolab

Principal Platform Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Proficiency in operating systems including SUSE Linux and Windows for SAP deployments * Experience ... kernel upgrades, OSS note implementation, printer administration, system refresh activities

All JobsLinux Kernel Engineer JobsLinux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$10.8K

$112.1K

$126.8K

How much do linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel engineer in Minnesota is $112,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,900.00 and $122,400.00 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 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.

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.

More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in MN? For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,142 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
C++ Developer

C++ Developer

NxT Level

Eden Prairie, MN • On-site

$50 - $67.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

**Job Description:**
Join our dynamic team at [Company Name], a leading data security solutions company headquartered in the United States. Founded by veterans of the IT Asset Disposition industry, we're dedicated to providing straightforward solutions with unparalleled transparency and certified data wiping capabilities across all storage devices. Our innovative network boot feature simplifies diagnostics, erasure, and reporting for a wide array of media storage devices, accessible through a single appliance connected to your network. Plus, our secure portal ensures that reporting is conveniently available to multiple users.
**Role Description:**
We're currently on the lookout for a talented C++ Developer to join us at our Eden Prairie, MN, location. This is a full-time, on-site position. As a C++ Developer at [Company Name], you'll play a crucial role in designing, developing, and testing applications. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, you'll identify, prioritize, and execute tasks aimed at enhancing the reliability, scalability, and performance of our cutting-edge data security solutions.
**Qualifications:**
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering or a related field
- Experience with SAS, SATA, SCSI, and NVMe protocols is highly desirable
- A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in C++ software development
- Proficiency in Linux kernel development is a must
- Strong familiarity with the software development life cycle, computer science fundamentals, and object-oriented design principles
- Excellent communication skills coupled with a knack for problem-solving
- Experience with SAS and NVMe firmware is considered a valuable asset
If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of data security through innovative technology and collaborative teamwork, we'd love to hear from you. Join us in our mission to revolutionize the world of data security solutions!

Apply