ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Linux Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HARMAN International

Embedded Software Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

Engineering Worker Type Reference: Regular - Permanent Pay Rate Type: Salary Career Level: T3 Job ... Experience with Linux kernel development. * Proficient with standard software development defect ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsLinux Software Engineer JobsLinux Software Engineer Jobs in California

Linux Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$10

$58

$90

How much do linux software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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.

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 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.

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 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
Infographic showing various Linux Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,620 per year, or $59 per hour.

Linux Peripheral Software Engineer

Qualcomm Technologies

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Applications Engineering
General Summary:
As a Linux Peripheral Software Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and customer support of peripheral subsystems on Qualcomm platforms. This role focuses on USB and low-speed peripheral interfaces such as I2C, I3C, SPI, as well as MIPI-based protocols, enabling robust connectivity and functionality across customer products.
You will work closely with customers to review peripheral bus requirements, analyze system-level use cases, and translate those requirements into software design and implementation. The role involves hands-on kernel and driver development, debugging, and optimization in Linux and Android environments, as well as on-site customer support to bring-up, validate, and resolve peripheral-related issues on development platforms.
You will be involved in customizing, enabling, and optimizing Qualcomm software for customer programs, supporting new hardware bring-up, and troubleshooting complex protocol-level issues across USB, QUP-based peripherals, and MIPI interfaces. Strong collaboration with hardware, architecture, validation, and customer engineering teams is expected.
The ideal candidate has strong C/C++ programming skills, solid experience with Linux kernel and device driver development, and deep familiarity with peripheral protocols and buses. The candidate should be self-driven, capable of owning customer issues end-to-end, and comfortable working across global teams while delivering documentation, training, and technical guidance to customers.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
  • 3+ year of any combination of academic and/or work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
  • 3+ year of any combination of academic and/or work experience with debugging techniques.
  • Proven experience as a Linux Kernel Engineer or similar role.
  • Strong knowledge of Linux kernel architecture and build tools.
  • Strong understanding of Computer Architecture - Caches, Bus, Memory is required.
  • Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git).
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • The preferred candidate should have knowledge in the following areas:
  • Camera, Display, AR/VR, Video, Graphics, BSP software
  • Strong understanding of system performance tuning and optimization.
  • Extensive experience with Linux kernel development, debugging, and profiling tools.
  • Proficiency in programming with real-time operating systems or microkernels, particularly on ARM architectures or Qualcomm's Hexagon microprocessor.
  • Advanced C/C++ programming skills with a minimum of 3 years of experience in embedded software systems. Experience in creating or managing software build environments using tools such as Make, CMake, and Git.
  • Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python).
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with specific Linux distributions and their kernel customization processes (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Rocky Linux).

Physical Requirements
  • Frequently transports between offices, buildings, and campuses up to mile.
  • Frequently transports and installs equipment up to 5 lbs.
  • Performs required tasks at various heights (e.g., standing or sitting).
  • Monitors and utilizes computers and test equipment for more than 6 hours a day.
  • Continuous communication which includes the comprehension of information with colleagues, customers, and vendors both in person and remotely.

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$104,000.00 - $156,000.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

Apply