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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

HawkEye 360

Principal Embedded Linux Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Lead board bring-up efforts, kernel customization, device driver development, and device tree ... Mentor embedded software engineers on Linux internals, driver development, and debugging techniques ...

Nwis

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

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 ...

NewGen Technologies

Linux Developer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... Kernel development experience is desired) * Demonstrated in-depth understanding of low level system development for Linux/Unix internals and APIs * Demonstrated experience working in a cross-platform ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

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 ...

VTG

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA

Experience with Android/Linux kernel development or driver development. * Experience reverse engineering with Ghidra or IDAPro. * Experience designing embedded software systems. * Experience ...

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Laurel, MD

... Linux kernel and drivers -Experience with malware analysis -Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Laurel, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full ...

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Laurel, MD

... Linux kernel and drivers -Experience with malware analysis -Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Laurel, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full ...

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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 May 31, 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?

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.

More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs
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Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you

Embedded Linux Engineer with Security Clearance

Optimum Governmental Solutions LLC

Manassas, VA

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities: · Contribute to the development of Linux kernel modules and device drivers for custom hardware. · Write and maintain code using C/C++, Bash, and Python. · Integrate and debug Linux OS on embedded systems.

· Collaborate with hardware teams to ensure seamless software/hardware integration. · Perform software testing, validation, and maintain embedded systems over the long term. · Support system bring-up and troubleshooting on new hardware platforms.

· Participate in architectural decisions and contribute to system-level design. Essential Skills: · Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field. · 3+ years of expertise in Linux OS, including kernel-level development.

· Experience developing Linux kernel modules and device drivers. · Proficiency in C/C++, Bash, and Python. · Understanding of operating systems internals.

· Eligibility for US Secret Clearance. Additional Skills & Qualifications: · Familiarity with hardware platforms and embedded system design. · Demonstrated ability in Linux integration and debugging.

· Prior experience in defense or aerospace embedded systems. · Experience with real-time systems and performance optimization. · Familiarity with Git, CI/CD pipelines, and modern development workflows.

· Experience working in an Agile development environment.

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