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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Onyx Point, Inc.

Reverse Engineer 2-TG

Hanover, MD · On-site

$78K - $250K/yr

Reverse Engineering Experience : Highly Valued as a Foundational Skill (5-years) * Windows SW RE is ... Linux * Kernel Development / Driver Development * 75% focus SW RE * Malware Analysis

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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 Aug 22, 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.

More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs

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

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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 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,682 per year, or $62.3 per hour.

Linux Subject Matter Expert (SME)

DAN Solutions

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Contingent on Funding/AwardWe are seeking an experienced Linux Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide advanced systems engineering and operational support for CDSSF Cross Domain Shared Services Framework within a secure Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) environment. This role is embedded with our Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) team and is responsible for maintaining, hardening, troubleshooting, and optimizing Linux-based systems across multiple domains and mission enclaves.The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), system hardening (STIG), cross domain security architectures, and the accreditation processes necessary to support Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) systems.Key Responsibilities:Lead system engineering, patching, configuration, and lifecycle maintenance of RHEL/CentOS/Oracle Linux systems supporting CDS environments.Implement and maintain DISA STIG-compliant baselines using automation tools (e.g., Ansible, SCAP, Puppet).Collaborate with CDS engineers, Information Assurance personnel, and enclave leads to meet ATO/RMF compliance.Troubleshoot kernel-level issues, performance bottlenecks, and cross-domain interface stability.Provide SME-level support for SE Linux, LDAP/Kerberos, and auditing solutions (e.g., syslog, Splunk forwarders).Manage OS provisioning, virtual infrastructure (e.g., VMware or KVM), and baseline image creation for cross-domain enclaves.Assist with developing and maintaining infrastructure-as-code configurations and custom scripts (Bash, Python).Serve as Tier III escalation for complex OS issues affecting CDS reliability or availability.Support enclave isolation and guard-side interface requirements under strict security policies.Document engineering decisions, operational procedures, and system configurations for cross-team knowledge sharing and accreditation packages.Required Qualifications:U.S. Citizen with active TS/SCI clearance and CI Polygraph (or ability to obtain).8+ years of experience administering Linux systems in a secure, mission-critical environment.3+ years supporting cross-domain or multi-enclave environments (CDS, Garrison, SMART.NeXT, CDSSF).Advanced knowledge of RHEL 7/8/9, including system hardening and kernel-level tuning.Experience with automation frameworks and scripting languages (Ansible, Bash, Python).Familiarity with RMF/ATO processes and audit log management.Strong understanding of networking (TCP/IP, firewalls, VLANs, DNS) as it relates to Linux systems.Desired Qualifications:DoD 8570 IAT Level II or III certification (Security+ CE, CASP+, CISSP).Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or similar Linux certification.Familiarity with CDS guard technologies (Radiant Mercury, Data Diode, Garrison, etc.).Experience with hypervisors and virtual infrastructure supporting isolated environments.Knowledge of Zero Trust, enclave segmentation, and compartmentalized architectures.