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Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA (NOW HIRING)

Zealogics Inc

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Zealogics Inc is seeking an HPC Engineer. The primary responsibilities include maintaining and ... Linux kernel, windows server. • HPC Operating System Installation/provision - Windows Server ...

Nvidia

Senior Networking Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer to join the Linux networking drivers R&D team. The work environment is versatile, informative, dynamic and challenging as our employees are ...

Fortinet

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$157K - $211K/yr

M.S. preferred • Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux environment is essential • Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers • Experience ...

Waymo

Sr Software Engineer, Telematics

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$204K - $259K/yr

Work on a small team of System Software and Linux Kernel Engineers to design, develop, and deploy production-grade system software components for driverless vehicles, from initial prototyping through ...

Zealogics.com

HPC engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

HPC Rack, Build, cable, configure, and provision Linux kernel, windows server. * HPC Operating ... Programming language: Python, Shell * Virtualization and containerization * Computer network

Nvidia

System Software Engineering Lead

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

NVIDIA is searching for a highly motivated, creative engineer with direct experience in Linux kernel mode drivers to help us deliver on the future of GPU driver software.This is a rare opportunity to ...

itechstack

Linux BSP Developer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

... Engineer Skill Linux, C, C++ Mandatory Board Bring Up Mandatory Kernel Mandatory BSP , Android HAL/HIDL Mandatory Kernel Driver - Development Mandatory Automated Unit Testing Optional Role Individual ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Engineer JobsLinux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA

Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Sunnyvale, CA salary details

$13.1K

$136.2K

$154.1K

How much do linux kernel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel engineer in Sunnyvale, CA is $136,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,700.00 and $148,700.00 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 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 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.

More about Linux Kernel Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA? For Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA are:
What cities near Sunnyvale, CA are hiring for Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities near Sunnyvale, CA with the most Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:
Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Sunnyvale, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,221 per year, or $65.5 per hour.

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Ultima Genomics

Fremont, CA

$125K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a highly motivated Senior Linux Systems Engineer to join our Computing Team!

You will work on high-performance computing (HPC) systems that are part of our sequencing platform. The ideal candidate is a hands-on Linux expert who thrives on optimizing performance and building secure, scalable and reliable systems in a fast-paced environment.

This is a full-time, on-site position at our Fremont, CA headquarters.

How You'll Contribute

  • Design, build, and maintain high-performance Linux systems supporting compute and data-intensive workloads
  • Optimize system performance through kernel and filesystem tuning; identify and eliminate I/O, memory, or network bottlenecks
  • Automate provisioning and configuration management using orchestration tools such as Ansible and Salt
  • Monitor and troubleshoot kernel, driver, and hardware issues; perform root cause analysis in partnership with data and engineering teams and propose long-term solutions
  • Ensure system reliability through regular patching, monitoring, and performance tuning
  • Maintain accurate system documentation, runbooks, and configuration baselines
  • Collaborate with software, hardware, and scientific teams to ensure platform reliability and scalability
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

  • BS in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience designing and building high-performance physical Linux systems in high-throughput or mission-critical environments
  • Deep knowledge of Linux kernel, NFS and Linux file system performance tuning
  • Solid background in TCP/IP networking, routing, VLANs, and firewall rules
  • Experience with the latest CPU and GPU technologies
  • Proficiency in shell scripting (bash), working knowledge of Python, and familiarity with Ansible or similar configuration management tools
  • Proven hands-on experience building servers from components, diagnosing hardware failures, and working with vendors
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills
  • May occasionally be exposed to activity that requires pulling/lifting/moving/carrying up to 50 lbs
  • Experience with cloud computing infrastructure (e.g. AWS) and Docker desirable
  • Familiarity with security frameworks and compliance standards (e.g. ISO 27001) a plus

At Ultima Genomics, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays between $125,000 and $150,000, if performed in California, and your actual base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.  Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.  This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending & health savings account; paid holidays; paid time off; employee assistance program; and other company benefits.#LI-Onsite

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