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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Onyx Point, Inc.

Reverse Engineer 2

Hanover, MD · On-site +1

$78K - $250K/yr

Linux * Kernel Development / Driver Development * 75% focus SW RE * Malware Analysis * Vulnerability research and assessment : Reflects cyber focus and familiaritywith the CNO professional ecosystem

TCOM, L.P.

Staff Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD · On-site

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

TCOM, L.P.

Staff Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

Ignite IT

Senior Linux Administrator

Suitland, MD · On-site

... Engineer or Administrator. * Strong experience in Linux performance tuning , kernel parameter analysis (sysctl), and troubleshooting with tools like vmstat, iostat, sar, and perf. * Expert-level ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Engineer JobsLinux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington

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 21, 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 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 is the salary of Linux kernel engineer?

The salary of a Linux kernel engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior engineers with specialized skills in kernel development and performance tuning can earn higher compensation, often including benefits and bonuses.

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.

How much do kernel engineers make?

Kernel engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in C, assembly, or device drivers can command higher salaries, especially in competitive tech markets.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior Linux Kernel Engineer with extensive experience, specialized skills in kernel development, and often working in high-demand industries or companies can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such roles typically require advanced knowledge of C programming, system architecture, and often involve leadership or critical system responsibilities.

Are kernel engineers in demand?

Kernel engineers are in high demand due to the critical role they play in developing and maintaining operating system kernels, especially in areas like embedded systems, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Skills in C programming, Linux, and system architecture increase employability, and many organizations seek professionals with experience in kernel development and debugging tools.
More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs
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Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Senior CNO Software Engineer [$308k/year] TS/SCI FS-Poly with Security Clearance

Senior CNO Software Engineer [$308k/year] TS/SCI FS-Poly with Security Clearance

SYSTOLIC

Annapolis Junction, MD

$308K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Candidates must already possess an active Top Secret/SCI w. Full Scope Polygraph to be considered for this position. SYSTOLIC needs software engineers who are experienced with embedded system development for numerous contract positions.

Key skillsets include: - Virtualization: Experience with configuring, administering, and developing in virtual environments like VMWare/ESXi, Open Stack, Open vSwitch, and QEMU. - Embedded Systems: Development experience on embedded platforms such as Linux, Unix, Android, and VxWorks. - Reverse Engineering: Proficiency with software reverse engineering and debugging tools (IDAPro, OllyDbg, gdb, Ghidra, Binary Ninja) and hardware reverse engineering of embedded devices.

- Assembly Language: Familiarity with assembly languages for development and reversing. - Vulnerability Analysis and Exploit Development: Experience identifying vulnerabilities and developing exploits, including user-mode stack-based and heap-based overflows. - Programming: Strong programming skills in Assembly, C, C#, C++, Perl, or Python, with a focus on understanding system interactions and APIs rather than just production environments.

- System-Level Understanding: Knowledge of Unix/Windows system APIs, C++ virtual function tables, and heap allocation strategies. - Kernel Programming: Kernel programming experience (WDK / Unix||Linux) is highly desirable. - Large-Scale Projects: Experience working with very large software projects is a plus.

Compensation varies per contract position. One representative example would be yearly compensation of $308,320 for 1880 hours billed for a candidate with this skillset. a technical Bachelor's degree, and 12 years of software engineering experience.

About SYSTOLIC: SYSTOLIC is dedicated to giving our employees the best possible company experience so that they can focus on providing outstanding support to their customer’s mission. Our company is founded on integrity, enthusiasm, and a relentless commitment to supporting the Intelligence Community. You can learn more about us and submit an application to be considered against our current and future openings at https://systolic.com.

To learn about our compensation ranges, visit our Pay Transparency page at: https://systolic.com/pay-transparency

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