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Linux Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qualcomm

Staff Software Engineer - Linux

San Diego, CA · On-site

The Staff Software Engineer - Linux will design, develop, and validate embedded and cloud edge software and will focus on upstream-oriented Linux platform enablement for Qualcomm's next-generation ...

Qualcomm

Staff Software Engineer - Linux

San Diego, CA · On-site

Strong foundation in computer science and system-level software engineering. * Advanced Linux experience with the ability to debug complex issues spanning kernel, boot, and userspace. * Proficiency ...

SubSeaSail®, Inc.

Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Develop embedded Linux software in C/C++ for vehicle systems, sensors, and peripherals * Support hardware bring‑up: device tree configuration, driver interaction, and peripheral integration in ...

Collabera

Cloud Software Engineer II

Ontario, CA · On-site

$61 - $79.25/hr

We are seeking an experienced high-performing software engineer for a contract position in our core ... At least 5 years of relevant technical experience in embedded Linux software development.

Omni Inclusive

Software Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

In-depth knowledge of Linux display and audio pipelines * TA development with ARM TrustZone ... system software Required Education: * Bachelor's degree in computer/electrical engineering ...

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Linux Software Engineer information

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$10

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How much do linux software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux software engineer in California is $58.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $66.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Linux Software Engineer typically collaborate with other teams during the software development lifecycle?

As a Linux Software Engineer, you’ll regularly work alongside cross-functional teams such as DevOps, QA, and product management. Collaboration often involves participating in code reviews, troubleshooting system-level issues, and integrating new features with existing infrastructure. Effective communication is crucial, as you’ll need to coordinate with hardware engineers, security teams, and sometimes even customer support to ensure seamless deployment and maintenance. This collaborative environment not only enhances product quality but also provides opportunities to broaden your technical skills and network within the organization.

What is the difference between Linux Software Engineer vs Linux Developer?

AspectLinux Software EngineerLinux Developer
Primary FocusDesigning, developing, and maintaining Linux-based software systems and applications.Writing, testing, and debugging code specifically for Linux environments, often focusing on application development.
Required SkillsProficiency in Linux OS, C/C++, scripting, system architecture, and debugging tools.Strong coding skills in languages like C, C++, Python, and familiarity with Linux APIs and tools.
Work EnvironmentTypically in engineering teams working on system-level software, embedded systems, or infrastructure.Often in software development teams creating applications or tools for Linux platforms.

Linux Software Engineers focus on system-level design and maintenance of Linux-based systems, while Linux Developers primarily write and test applications for Linux. Both roles require Linux proficiency but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Linux Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as C, C++, or Python), deep knowledge of Linux operating systems, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with Linux kernel development, version control systems like Git, and experience with build tools and debugging utilities are typically required. Problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for building robust, efficient, and maintainable software solutions within complex Linux environments.

What does a Linux Software Engineer do?

A Linux Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software that runs on Linux-based systems. Their work often involves writing code in languages such as C, C++, Python, or Shell scripting, and optimizing applications for performance and security on Linux platforms. They may also contribute to open-source projects, customize Linux distributions, and ensure software compatibility with different hardware architectures. Additionally, Linux Software Engineers often collaborate with other engineers to troubleshoot issues and improve system stability.
What are popular job titles related to Linux Software Engineer jobs in California? For Linux Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Linux Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Linux Software Engineer jobs in CA? For Linux Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Linux Software Engineer jobs near you
#Senior Software Engineer - Linux

#Senior Software Engineer - Linux

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Qualcomm rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 191 rated software companies

Job description

Job Summary:
Qualcomm Innovation Center, Inc. is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to drive Linux innovation for their next-generation server-class CPUs. The role involves building and optimizing Linux distribution support and infrastructure, collaborating with internal developers, and ensuring upstream readiness for major data center and enterprise environments.
Responsibilities:
• Collaborate with team members to bring up Linux kernel and userspace on new server-class hardware, ensuring core functionality and stability.
• Implement and maintain build, packaging, and test workflows within the team’s CI/CD infrastructure.
• Assist in developing internal Linux distribution integration
• Debug and triage issues related to build failures, packaging, and platform bring-up.
• Work with hardware and firmware engineers to resolve platform-specific issues (e.g., bootloader, ACPI, secure boot).
• Support upstream readiness efforts by testing and validating changes needed for major Linux distributions (e.g., RHEL, Ubuntu).
• Contribute patches and collaborate with upstream communities under guidance from senior team members.
• Document processes and share knowledge to enable other internal developers.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 1+ year of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.
• 2+ years of academic or work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Preferred:
• Master’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.
• Strong background in computer science fundamentals and software engineering principles.
• Proficiency in Bash and Python for automation and tooling, working knowledge of C/C++
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Mature interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Proven ability to debug complex Linux systems across kernel and userspace.
• Ability to quickly learn new tools and workflows in a fast-evolving environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in non-linear, dynamic environments.
• Proficiency with Git and experience in GitHub-based workflows (or similar), including integration with modern CI/CD systems for open-source or large-scale projects.
• Deep experience with enterprise Linux distributions (e.g., RHEL/Fedora, Ubuntu/Debian) and build frameworks, including packaging, update mechanisms, and upstream integration, and data center deployment practices.
• Familiarity with Linux packaging systems (Debian, RPM) and CI/CD automation tools (e.g., GitHub Actions, Jenkins).
• Working knowledge of Linux kernel configuration and platform enablement (e.g., ACPI, UEFI, kconfig).
• Experience contributing to upstream Linux kernel or userspace projects is a strong plus.
• Familiarity with virtualization, containerization, and orchestration tools (QEMU, KVM, Docker, Kubernetes) is desirable.
Company:
Qualcomm designs wireless technologies and semiconductors that power connectivity, communication, and smart devices. Founded in 1985, the company is headquartered in San Diego, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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