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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Design, develop, and maintain low-level Linux kernel components, drivers, modules, and subsystems. * Reverse engineer Linux binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to understand system ...

Design, develop, and maintain low-level Linux kernel components, drivers, modules, and subsystems. * Reverse engineer Linux binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to understand system ...

Design, develop, and maintain low-level Linux kernel components, drivers, modules, and subsystems. * Reverse engineer Linux binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to understand system ...

This role is ideal for an engineer with deep expertise in Linux networking, policy-based routing, kernel performance tuning, infrastructure automation, and modern VPN technologies including WireGuard ...

They are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to design, develop, test, and debug high ... with Linux kernel development • Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical ...

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

Deep expertise in Linux kernel internals: network and platform driver development, device tree ... TCP/IP, UDP, routing, network interfaces, and socket programming. * Experience implementing or ...

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Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$129.7K

$146.7K

How much do linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel engineer in Washington is $129,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,800.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in WA?

For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,682 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Linux CNO Developer

Dulles, VA

REDLattice
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

At REDLattice, we are a global leader in delivering cutting-edge technical cybersecurity products and services. As we grow and adapt in an increasingly complex digital environment,

We are driven by mission-critical and innovative work that directly contributes to protecting our nations and strategic partners most vital infrastructure. Our teams lead advanced vulnerability analysis and develop tailored cyber solutions to meet the demands of rapidly evolving mission space. With offices in Northern Virginia, Melbourne, Florida, Tel Aviv, Israel, and other strategic locations, REDLattice is growing rapidly to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

We are seeking a highly skilled Linux CNO Developer with strong reverse engineering capabilities to support advanced research, systems development, and threat analysis. This role requires deep knowledge of the Windows operating system internals, low-level programming, and the ability to analyze and deconstruct binaries for vulnerabilities, malware, or undocumented system behavior.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and maintain low-level Linux kernel components, drivers, modules, and subsystems.
  • Reverse engineer Linux binaries, including legitimate and malicious software, to understand system behavior, vulnerabilities, exploits, and undocumented functionality.
  • Conduct vulnerability research and develop proof-of-concept exploits targeting Linux systems and kernel-level components.
  • Analyze kernel crashes, identify root causes, and perform low-level debugging and troubleshooting.
  • Research and develop techniques to identify, analyze, and assess vulnerabilities across Linux systems and software.
  • Collaborate with cybersecurity researchers, analysts, and software engineers to support offensive cyber operations and security-focused development efforts.
  • Analyze Linux malware and exploitation techniques to understand system compromise and potential attack vectors.
  • Document technical findings, architectures, research methodologies, and procedures clearly for internal teams and external clients.

Qualifications:

  • Active TS/SCI clearance (with active polygraph or willingness to obtain).
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Previous experience in Linux kernel development.
  • Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming.
  • Expertise with reverse engineering and debugging tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, GDB, LLDB, and Binary Ninja.
  • In-depth understanding of Linux internals, including kernel subsystems, system calls, memory management, processes/threads, networking, and device drivers.
  • Experience with kernel-level debugging, crash analysis, and root cause analysis.
  • Experience conducting vulnerability research and developing proof-of-concept exploits.
  • Familiarity with Linux security mechanisms and exploit mitigations, including ASLR, NX, stack canaries, seccomp, namespaces, and capabilities.
  • Strong understanding of Linux malware behavior, exploitation techniques, and attack methodologies.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • A collaborative and innovative work culture.

Why Join REDLattice?

  • Work on mission-driven technology at the cutting edge of cybersecurity and national defense.
  • Join a passionate, elite team of innovators and problem-solvers.
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
  • Opportunities for career growth and leadership development.
  • Be part of a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
REDLattice is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status.

Join us at REDLattice and help shape the future of cyber innovation and national security. Apply today!