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Linux Kernel Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an ...

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an ...

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

This role requires technical expertise or interest in system software development, OS internals ... Linux kernel project Key Responsibilities Development and Engineering: Design, develop, and ...

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

This role requires technical expertise or interest in system software development, OS internals ... Linux kernel project Key Responsibilities Development and Engineering: • Design, develop, and ...

Diverse Lynx

Linux Kernel Engineer

Spring, TX · Hybrid

$85K - $90K/yr

Linux Kernel Engineer Location: Spring, TX- Hybrid Salary: $85k-$90k/year Detailed ... Linux debug - Ability to analyze Linux kernel code and HPE software to root cause issue * HPE ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA

$139.50K - $258.10K/yr

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure ... software (e.g., kernel modules, device drivers, or core OS components). Proven ability to debug ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA

$139.50K - $258.10K/yr

Linux Kernel Engineer Imagine what you could build here. Join our Linux Kernel Engineering team and ... or low-level system software (e.g., kernel modules, device drivers, or core OS components)

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

Develop understanding of how kernel software interfaces with SoC hardware blocks • Team ... engineering field • Hands-on Experience: o Personal projects with Linux, Raspberry Pi, Arduino ...

ALTEN

Senior Engineer - Linux Kernel

Austin, TX · On-site

... software engineering experience3+ years of experience with embedded Linux or systems ... Domain KnowledgeLinux kernel development or maintenanceDevice drivers and hardware interfacesKernel ...

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Linux Kernel Software Engineer information

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How much do linux kernel software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel software engineer in the United States is $114,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Linux Kernel Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Linux Kernel Software Engineer, you need deep expertise in C programming, operating systems concepts, and kernel architecture, usually backed by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, kernel debugging tools (such as GDB and perf), and knowledge of kernel build systems are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure reliable, secure, and efficient kernel development, which is fundamental for system stability and innovation.

What are some common challenges faced by Linux Kernel Software Engineers when contributing to open-source projects?

Linux Kernel Software Engineers often face challenges such as navigating the complex and evolving codebase, adhering to rigorous coding standards, and ensuring their contributions are compatible across diverse hardware and distributions. Effective communication with the global developer community is crucial, as code reviews and feedback are integral parts of the process. Additionally, engineers must stay up to date with the latest kernel developments and security practices to maintain high-quality, reliable contributions.

What does a Linux Kernel Software Engineer do?

A Linux Kernel Software Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and enhancing the core component of the Linux operating system—the kernel. Their work involves writing and debugging low-level code, contributing to new features, fixing bugs, and ensuring optimal hardware compatibility and performance. They often collaborate with open-source communities, hardware vendors, and other software engineers to ensure the kernel runs efficiently across a variety of devices. Additionally, they may review code submissions, write documentation, and help troubleshoot complex system issues.

What is the difference between Linux Kernel Software Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectLinux Kernel Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, Linux kernel knowledge, C programming skillsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related, embedded systems experience, C/C++ skills
Work EnvironmentDeveloping and maintaining Linux kernel code, working in Linux-based environmentsDesigning firmware and software for embedded devices, often real-time systems
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware manufacturers, open-source projectsConsumer electronics, automotive, IoT devices, industrial equipment

While both roles require C programming and involve working with hardware-related software, Linux Kernel Software Engineers focus on developing and optimizing the Linux kernel itself, whereas Embedded Software Engineers develop software for specific hardware devices and embedded systems. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in scope and application.

More about Linux Kernel Software Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel Software Engineer jobs are:
Linux Kernel Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 78% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,500 per year, or $55 per hour.
Linux Kernel Engineer

Linux Kernel Engineer

Intel

Folsom, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Intel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Job Details:Job Description: 

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an emphasis on x86 architectures, device drivers, and platform-level integration. The successful candidate will support early platform enablement across both presilicon and postsilicon environments, including FPGA-based validation platforms and production silicon.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with Silicon Architects, SoC design teams, firmware engineers, and other software developers to enable operating system support for new hardware capabilities. The position requires strong Linux kernel expertise, deep understanding of hardware-software interfaces, and the ability to debug complex system-level issues during early platform bring-up. Contributions to upstream Linux kernel subsystems and participation in open-source development are highly valued.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and maintain Linux kernel modules and device drivers for x86-based platforms.
Support platform bring-up activities and early boot enablement in both presilicon (FPGA/emulation) and postsilicon environments.
Work with FPGA platforms and simulation environments for early hardware validation and driver development.
Collaborate with SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to define OS and kernel requirements for new hardware features.
Develop and enhance kernel subsystems related to device drivers, memory management, power management, scheduling, and platform interfaces.
Implement and debug kernel functionality including ACPI integration and hardware interface protocols.
Diagnose and resolve kernel-level issues during system boot, device initialization, and runtime operation.
Backport patches, apply security updates, and maintain stable kernel branches as part of platform productization.
Contribute patches and enhancements to upstream Linux kernel subsystems when applicable.
Optimize system performance through power/performance tuning, memory management improvements, and system-level profiling.
Maintain kernel configuration, build environments, and development workflows using Git-based version control systems.
Work with cross-functional engineering team

PROFESSIONAL TRAITS
Strong analytical thinking and system-level problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including SoC design, firmware, and platform engineering groups.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively in a team environment.
Strong attention to detail with disciplined debugging and troubleshooting practices.
Adaptability to work across different hardware platforms and development phases.
Passion for low-level systems development, including personal experimentation with Linux kernel builds, debugging, or open-source contributions.
Commitment to high-quality engineering practices and maintainable code.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 3+ years of relevant experience.
The experience must include:
Linux Kernel Development1:
Strong experience in Linux kernel development with emphasis on x86 platform architecture.
Hands-on experience developing and debugging Linux kernel drivers and kernel subsystems.
Experience working with one or more Linux kernel subsystems such as:
Device drivers and platform drivers
Memory management
Power management and ACPI
Scheduler or interrupt handling
Virtualization or I/O subsystems
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Development Tools
Proficiency with Git-based development workflows.
Experience submitting or maintaining upstream Linux kernel patches.
Familiarity with Linux kernel build systems and configuration management.
Debugging and Performance
Strong debugging skills using kernel-level diagnostic tools.
Experience with system performance analysis, power optimization, and memory management.

Job Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, California, FolsomAdditional Locations:US, California, Santa Clara, US, Oregon, HillsboroBusiness group:The Software Team drives customer value by enabling differentiated experiences through leadership AI technologies and foundational software stacks, products, and services. The group is responsible for developing the holistic strategy for client and data center software in collaboration with OSVs, ISVs, developers, partners and OEMs. The group delivers specialized NPU IP to enable the AI PC and GPU IP to support all of Intel's market segments. The group also has HW and SW engineering experts responsible for delivering IP, SOCs, runtimes, and platforms to support the CPU and GPU/accelerator roadmap, inclusive of integrated and discrete graphics.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $149,600.00-211,200.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will be eligible for our hybrid work model which allows employees to split their time between working on-site at their assigned Intel site and off-site. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968

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