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Linux Kernel Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Arista Networks

Arista Networks is looking for world-class Linux Kernel and BIOS software engineers to join our Dublin Kernel software team. Our Kernel team is responsible for keeping pace with the latest ...

ADT

Senior Embedded Linux Firmware Engineer

Blue Bell, PA · On-site

$121K - $182K/yr

A solid understanding of Linux kernel space is highly desirable. * Expert in three or more engineering disciplines/coding languages. * Deep knowledge and experience designing systems to achieve non ...

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How much do linux kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel in Pennsylvania is $149,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $165,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Linux Kernel job?

A Linux Kernel job involves working on the development, maintenance, and optimization of the Linux kernel, which is the core component of the Linux operating system. Professionals in this role may focus on areas such as device drivers, memory management, file systems, or security. They typically work with programming languages like C and tools such as Git for version control. These roles are common in industries like embedded systems, cloud computing, and operating system development. Strong knowledge of Linux internals and debugging skills are essential for success in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by Linux Kernel Developers, and how can they be addressed?

Linux Kernel Developers often encounter complex issues such as debugging low-level code, maintaining backward compatibility, and efficiently diagnosing hardware-software interactions. Navigating the vast and collaborative open-source community also requires effective communication and adherence to coding standards. These challenges can be addressed by actively participating in kernel mailing lists, leveraging advanced debugging tools, and continuously updating your knowledge through community resources. Being proactive in code reviews and engaging with other developers can also streamline problem-solving and ensure high-quality code contributions. Embracing collaborative best practices helps create robust and maintainable kernel modules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Linux Kernel position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Linux Kernel Developer, you need strong proficiency in C programming, expertise with operating system concepts, and a solid understanding of hardware integration, often backed by a degree in Computer Science or a related field. Familiarity with git version control, debugging tools like gdb, and experience contributing to open-source projects or relevant Linux Foundation certifications are common requirements. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate within globally distributed teams set top performers apart. These capabilities are essential for navigating the complexities of kernel-level development, ensuring high-quality contributions, and driving innovation in the Linux ecosystem.

What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania? For Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Linux Kernel jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Linux Kernel job openings:
Linux Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel job openings in Pennsylvania as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,420 per year, or $71.8 per hour.

Linux Kernel Engineer (Device Driver Developer)

HELLBENDER Inc.

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Name: Hellbender Inc.
Job Title: Linux Kernel Engineer (Device Driver Developer)
Department: Software
Report to: VP of Software
Who we are:
Hellbender Inc. is a Pennsylvania Benefit Corporation who partners with innovators to mature their Artificial Intelligence enabled computing sensors and produce their solutions onshore at prototype to high volumes.
Hellbender is intentionally forming an inclusive work environment and is committed to uplifting the historically marginalized identities including veterans, women, trans and non-white races in our community and industry.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly specialized Linux Kernel Engineer to lead the development and integration of device drivers for our next-generation hardware platforms. The primary focus of this role is "hardware enablement"-taking raw silicon and datasheets and transforming them into functional, stable components within the Linux kernel.
The ideal candidate is a low-level expert who is comfortable navigating complex hardware registers, interpreting timing diagrams, and writing efficient, high-performance C code that operates within the constraints of kernel space. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of a driver, from initial bring-up to integration into our custom Linux distributions using Yocto or Buildroot.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Driver Development: Design, implement, and maintain Linux device drivers (e.g., I2C, SPI, PCIe, USB, or custom SoC peripherals) within the Linux kernel space.
  • Hardware Bring-up: Lead the initial software bring-up of new hardware components, ensuring that all peripheral interfaces are communicating correctly with the CPU.
  • Datasheet Analysis: Perform deep-dive analysis of hardware datasheets, register maps, and electrical specifications to implement correct register-level logic and timing sequences.
  • Embedded Linux Integration: Integrate newly developed drivers into custom Linux distributions using build systems such as Yocto Project or Buildroot, including the management of Device Tree (DTS) modifications.
  • Kernel Debugging: Use advanced kernel debugging techniques to resolve issues related to interrupts, DMA (Direct Memory Access), concurrency/locking, and memory corruption.
  • Hardware Interfacing: Work closely with hardware engineers to validate electrical signals against software behavior using logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, or protocol analyzers.

Required Qualifications:
  • Low-Level C Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in C, specifically regarding kernel-space constraints (no standard libraries, manual memory management, interrupt context awareness).
  • Linux Kernel Internals: Deep understanding of the Linux kernel subsystem architecture, including Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs), Concurrency/Spinlocks, DMA, and the Linux Device Model.
  • Hardware Protocol Expertise: Strong experience working with low-level communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, UART, PCIe, USB, or Ethernet).
  • Datasheet Fluency: Proven ability to read and interpret complex hardware datasheets, register maps, and timing diagrams to drive software implementation.
  • Embedded Build Systems: Hands-on experience with Yocto Project (BitBake, recipes, layers) or Buildroot for creating custom Linux images.
  • Device Tree Knowledge: Proficiency in writing and maintaining Device Tree Source (DTS) and Device Tree Overlay (DTBO) files.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Hardware Debugging Tools: Experience using hardware debugging tools such as Logic Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, or JTAG debuggers.
  • Architecture Specifics: Experience with specific processor architectures (e.g., ARM, RISC-V, or x86).
  • Linux Kernel Subsystem Expertise: Previous experience contributing to the upstream Linux kernel or working on specific subsystems (e.g., Industrial I/O (IIO), Network, or Input subsystems).
  • Scripting: Proficiency in Python for automating hardware testing and data parsing.
  • Camera drivers:experience with imaging sensors is also a plus for this job.

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 5% Safe Harbor Contribution to 401k by Hellbender
  • Dental insurance, 100% by Hellbender for employees and their families
  • Health insurance, 100% by Hellbender for employees and their families
  • Vision insurance, 100% by Hellbender for employees and their families
  • Flexible spending account
  • 7.5 weeks total Paid time off
  • Hellbender Inc. options through our Equity Incentive Plan
  • Profit Sharing (through 401k)
  • Hybrid work environment & flexible work schedule

Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 5-7 years of experience specifically in Linux kernel-space development and driver writing.

Work Location: UPARC Pittsburgh
Opportunity for advancement:
Hellbender is a growing business and follows a policy that prioritizes internal promotions. As new positions are created new opportunities for advancement will be created as well.

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