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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Hanover, MD

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

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Hanover, MD · On-site

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

Freddie Mac

Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Mclean, VA · On-site

Experience with Linux engineering, including lifecycle management, kernel patching, maintenance, and systems integration. * Automation development experience including application of Infrastructure ...

Freddie Mac

Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Mclean, VA

Experience with Linux engineering, including lifecycle management, kernel patching, maintenance, and systems integration. * Automation development experience including application of Infrastructure ...

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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 Jun 1, 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

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

stanleyreid

Hanover, MD

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Our client isn't just a cybersecurity company, it's a cybersecurity career powerhouse. Founded in 2009, our client offers exciting careers for IT professionals across various specializations, including CNO, cybersecurity, software development and more. They protect data for government agencies and critical infrastructure companies, tackling complex challenges that impact millions. When you join their talented and collaborative team, you'll thrive in a culture that values your contributions. They offer competitive salaries, healthcare, retirement options, profit sharing, and generous PTO. Does this sound like a place where your skills and passion can make a real difference? Talk to us today and learn how their mission to secure the digital world aligns with your career aspirations.
They are seeking a Reverse Engineer to join their team. 
Relevant qualifications:
-Bachelor's Degree
-5+ years of professional experience
-Experience with reverse engineering and related tools (IDA, Ghidra, etc)
-Experience coding (C/C++, Assembly, or Python)
-Experience with Windows kernel and drivers
-Experience with Linux kernel and drivers
-Experience with malware analysis
-Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development
This role is located in Hanover, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full-Scope Polygraph. 
Apply @ https://careers.stanleyreid.com/ or contact our team for more info: cwells@stanleyreid.com or abuzzettijohnson@stanleyreid.com