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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Witekio

Embedded Linux SW Engineer (Sr)

Bellevue, WA · On-site +1

$130/hr

Proficiency with Linux kernel and middleware development on ARM architecture. * Experience with ... MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, and ...

Sigma Design

Embedded Linux Platform Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$111K - $132K/yr

Embedded Linux Platform Engineer (Jetson OS Build & Validation) Sigma Design is a product ... Triage and fulfill requests to upgrade OS components including kernel, BSP, drivers, and system ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

... Linux kernel - Scripting (Ruby/Python/Rust) - Strong knowledge of Computer Science fundamentals in ... programming language such as C, C++, Rust, Python or Perl - Ability to take a project from scoping ...

Amazon

SDE - Embedded Linux, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$147K - $193K/yr

... Linux, Yocto, and/or Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) The candidate should be familiar with ... in kernel programming and/or device drivers, and/or working with peripheral devices. Experience ...

Amazon

SDE - Embedded Linux, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$147K - $193K/yr

... Linux, Yocto, and/or Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) The candidate should be familiar with ... in kernel programming and/or device drivers, and/or working with peripheral devices. Experience ...

Amazon

Software Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

... Linux kernel - Scripting (Ruby/Python/Rust) - Strong knowledge of Computer Science fundamentals in ... programming language such as C, C++, Rust, Python or Perl - Ability to take a project from scoping ...

Amazon

Software Dev Engineer, EC2 Nitro

Seattle, WA · On-site

... Linux kernel - Scripting (Ruby/Python/Rust) - Strong knowledge of Computer Science fundamentals in ... programming language such as C, C++, Rust, Python or Perl - Ability to take a project from scoping ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Engineer JobsLinux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12.5K

$130.3K

$147.4K

How much do linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel engineer in Seattle, WA is $130,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $142,200.00 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
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,301 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Embedded Linux SW Engineer (Sr)

Witekio

Bellevue, WA • On-site, Remote

$130/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

WITEKIO is an expert on embedded and IoT software development, with a global system approach integrating the various software layers of intelligent systems, from hardware to the cloud. Low-layer control (OS, drivers, Firmware) and proven expertise in application and interconnectivity are our distinguishing strengths in winning various projects with a high technical connotation.

We are a team of over 160 employees based around the world in France, Germany, England, and the United States.

We accompany our clients from end to end in their projects with tailor-designed services for architectural design, development, and software integration. Present in the automotive, aerospace health, medical and mobility sectors/smart cities, our clients, are, for example, Airbus, L'Oréal, Datalogic, N&W, Continental, and many others.

Find an overview of our projects under witekio.com/case-studies/

Context: 

We are seeking a Linux Embedded Engineer to join our team of 20 Witekians, coming from different backgrounds with various hobbies, seniority, and language specialties.

Our team specializes in embedded C / C++, Linux, RTOS, middleware, applications, and cloud technologies. We are involved from the early stages of the project, guiding our customers to fit their needs. We specialize in everything from design to implementation – from creating applications from the ground up to helping customers address complex issues within their existing code bases.

MUST BE LOCAL TO THE SEATTLE AREA

What you will do:

  • Develop middleware based on C/C++.
  • Customize Yocto and Buildroot distributions.
  • Develop device drivers for bootloaders and Linux kernels on various embedded hardware platforms.
  • Develop or customize board support packages (BSP) for our clients' hardware to provide additional functionality, such as software updates, enhanced security, and optimization.
  • Contribute to low-level software architectural discussions.
  • Proactively manage schedules, project requirements, specifications, and deliverables by partnering with your teammates and customers.
  • Participate in project validation, estimation, and project sizing to set expectations with your customers.
  • Enhance your skills by learning from/with your teammates.

We’re looking for you to bring:

  • Yocto and C expertise is a must-have.
  • Embedded C++ development experience.
  • Proficiency with Linux kernel and middleware development on ARM architecture.
  • Experience with embedded design, development, and debugging.
  • Ability to communicate technical information clearly and accurately to customers.
  • MS or BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, and 3 year's of experience as an Embedded Software Engineer or related positions.
  • Knowledge of build root.
  • Ability to work remotely and communicate effectively with team members and clients.

We Offer:

  • The opportunity to interact with a highly skilled international technical team from our other engineering offices.
  • 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time employees and 50% for dependents.
  • Generous PTO - Accruing 25 days per year  
  • 401(k) with a 5% company match.
  • Employee referral bonus.
  • Three (3) Witekian days per year to work with any programming language and technology you are interested in

Compensation Range: $130-140K

Technical assessment is required as a first step in the screening process.

Location: USA

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply