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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user‑space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

CACI

Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $218K/yr

Linux Systems Engineer Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... kernel concepts, and system architecture Proficiency in Linux system administration, including ...

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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 14, 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.

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Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
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.

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD • On-site

Qrypt
Network Security • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Qryptexternal

$125K - $155K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Qrypt's mission is to protect the world's data and restore privacy. Qrypt hardens cybersecurity and future‑proofs encryption against quantum attacks by eliminating key transmission. Qrypt's unique technology independently generates symmetric keys at multiple endpoints for critical workflows today. We are a passionate team of engineers, physicists, and cryptographers committed to transforming the way the world safeguards data and communications!

Qrypt is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join our team. The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and embedded software.

This position is in Germantown, MD (hybrid — 4 days in office per week).

What you'll do
  • Lead the design, development, and test of systems composing of hardware, digital logic, embedded software, Linux kernel modules, and user‑space Linux software
  • Assist in the design, review, and debug of analog/mixed signal circuit boards
  • Develop a deep understanding of the domain (quantum random number generators, network security systems) to architect future products and systems and validate existing products and systems
  • Lead hardware/FPGA/software integration efforts
  • Develop manufacturing and test tools and procedures, and supervise their execution
  • Use AI‑assisted and agentic development tooling to accelerate your work while owning the correctness and quality of everything you ship
  • Help shape how the team adopts AI‑assisted development (instruction conventions, review standards) as tooling matures
  • Assist in project planning and management
What you'll need
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a similar technical field, (Math, Physics, Engineering) and/or relevant work experience
  • 4+ years of experience developing software for embedded platforms or the Linux kernel
  • Expertise in the design and development of embedded systems
  • Proficiency with C, C++, bash and/or Python
  • Experience in the installation, upgrade, configuration, and performance tuning of Linux‑based servers
  • Experience with bringing up hardware
  • Familiarity with FPGA development, Verilog or VHDL
  • Familiarity with RF and low‑noise analog circuit and board design
  • Familiarity with electronics lab/test equipment (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, etc.)
  • Familiarity with implementing signal processing and/or control system algorithms
  • Fluency with AI‑assisted development and the judgment to apply it where it adds real leverage — reviewing, correcting, and taking full ownership of AI‑generated work
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
Benefits & Perks
  • Competitive Pay & Equity participation
  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage
  • Strong 401(k) match
  • In‑office lunch and snacks
  • The opportunity to be part of a company solving one of the most critical technology challenges of our time!
Compensation

The annual base pay range for this role is between $125,000 - $155,000. The actual base salary pay offered may vary based on multiple factors such as qualifications, experience, transferable skills, level of education, and other factors permitted by law. Please note that this salary information is solely for candidates hired to perform work in this location and refers to the amount Qrypt is willing to pay at the time of this posting. The range listed is just one component of Qrypt's total compensation package.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Qrypt is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. If you have a disability and need assistance with our employment application process, please email us at info@qrypt.com to obtain assistance.

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