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Linux Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nvidia

Senior Linux Kernel 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 ...

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$101K

$149.1K

$176K

How much do linux kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for linux kernel in the United States is $149,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $165,000.00 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.

More about Linux Kernel jobs
What cities are hiring for Linux Kernel jobs? Cities with the most Linux Kernel job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel jobs are:
What states have the most Linux Kernel jobs? States with the most job openings for Linux Kernel jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Linux Kernel jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Kernel jobs are:
Linux Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux Kernel job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,062 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Principal Linux Kernel Developer

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Principal Linux Kernel DeveloperThis role has been designed as 'Hybrid' with an expectation that you will work on average 2 days per week from an HPE office.

Who We Are:

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is the global edge-to-cloud company advancing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, protect, analyze, and act on their data and applications wherever they live, from edge to cloud, so they can turn insights into outcomes at the speed required to thrive in today's complex world.Our culture thrives onfinding new and better ways to accelerate what's next.We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs.We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good. If you are looking to stretch and grow your career our culture will embrace you.Open up opportunities with HPE.

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead architecture and design of Linux kernel components including filesystems, memory management, networking, and I/O subsystems.
  • Drive performance optimization, scalability improvements, and reliability across the storage stack.
  • Debug and resolve complex kernel-level issues including system crashes, memory corruption, and performance bottlenecks.
  • Provide technical leadership through design reviews, mentoring, and establishing engineering best practices.
  • Collaborate across storage, networking, firmware, and hardware teams to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Engage with upstream open-source communities (e.g., Linux kernel, Lustre) and contribute patches and reviews.
  • Lead root-cause analysis and resolution of critical customer issues and escalations.
  • Define and influence long-term architectural direction for HPE storage platforms.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 8-12+ years of experience in systems or kernel-level software development.
  • Expert-level proficiency in C programming.
  • Deep expertise in Linux kernel internals (e.g., memory management, filesystems, networking, block I/O).
  • Strong experience debugging kernel using tools such as crash, perf, ftrace, and tracepoints.
  • Experience with distributed systems or storage platforms.
  • Proven technical leadership and ability to influence architecture and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills within global engineering organizations.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with distributed storage systems such as Lustre, Ceph, or DAOS.
  • Experience contributing to upstream Linux kernel or open-source projects.
  • Knowledge of HPC environments and high-performance computing architectures.
  • Familiarity with RDMA, InfiniBand, or high-speed interconnects.
  • Experience with CI/CD, testing automation, and performance benchmarking.
  • Experience handling customer escalations and production system issues.

What We Can Offer You:

Health & Wellbeing

We strive to provide our team members and their loved ones with a comprehensive suite of benefits that supports their physical, financial and emotional wellbeing.

Personal & Professional Development

We also invest in your career because the better you are, the better we all are. We have specific programs catered to helping you reach any career goals you have - whether you want to become a knowledge expert in your field or apply your skills to another division.

Unconditional Inclusion

We are unconditionally inclusive in the way we work and celebrate individual uniqueness. We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good.

Let's Stay Connected:

Follow @HPECareers on Instagram to see the latest on people, culture and tech at HPE.

#unitedstates#compute

Job:

Engineering

Job Level:

TCP_05"The expected salary/wage range for this position is provided below. Actual offer may vary from this range based upon geographic location, work experience, education/training, and/or skill level.
- United States of America: Annual Salary USD 160,000 - 303,000 in Colorado // 152,000 - 349,000 in Minnesota
The listed salary range reflects base salary. Variable incentives may also be offered."

Information about employee benefits offered in the US can be found at https://myhperewards.com/main/new-hire-enrollment.html

The estimated job application period closure is August 28 2026; this timeline is provided for transparency and internal planning purposes.

HPE is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or any other protected category, and all decisions we make are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Our goal is to be one global team that is representative of our customers, in an inclusive environment where we can continue to innovate and grow together. Please click here: Equal Employment Opportunity.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise is EEO Protected Veteran/ Individual with Disabilities.

HPE will comply with all applicable laws related to employer use of arrest and conviction records, including laws requiring employers to consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories.

Recruitment Fraud Alert

We have become aware of an increase in fraudulent recruitment activities in which individuals impersonate our company or authorized recruitment agencies to offer fake employment opportunities. These scams may occur through false websites, emails, social media, or chat-based applications and often aim to obtain personal information or money. Please note that Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and its authorized recruitment agencies/vendors will never charge a candidate a registration fee, hiring fee, or any other fee in connection with its recruitment and hiring process. We also never request personal information such as back account details, Social Security numbers, or national IDs via social media or chat applications.

All legitimate job opportunities will come through official company channels, and candidates are responsible for verifying the credentials of any third party claiming to represent the company. Any reliance on fraudulent communication is at the individual's own risk, and HPE disclaims legal liability for any resulting damages. If you suspect recruitment fraud, do not share personal information or make any payments and report the incident to your local authorities immediately.

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