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Linux System Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Woongjin, Inc

System (Linux) Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

Engineering of systems administration-related solutions for various project and operational needs ... Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat ...

Woongjin, Inc

System (Linux) Admin

San Jose, CA

Engineering of systems administration-related solutions for various project and operational needs ... Systems Administration/System Engineer certification in Linux+, e.g., CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat ...

Jobsbridge

VSphere/Linux Systems Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Company Description Intelliswift Software, Inc 5-7 years of Linux Systems and Networking experience. Strong expertise in VMware vsphere 5.5 or above. Strong networking experience (cisco, brocade or ...

Ultima Genomics

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

We are looking for a highly motivated Senior Linux Systems Engineer to join our Computing Team! You ... Optimize system performance through kernel and filesystem tuning; identify and eliminate I/O ...

Maxar

Windows/Linux System Administrator

San Jose, CA · On-site

As a member of the Engineering Support Team/System Administrators, you will be working to support ... Familiarity with Linux and Windows system administration * Familiarity with Networking and ...

Akraya Inc.

Linux Systems Admin

Palo Alto, CA

Linux Admin, vsphere, support, VMWare Duration: 16 months Contract Type: W2 only. No vendors ... This person will primarily support engineering operations systems and network infrastructure.

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Linux System Programmer information

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$49

$80

How much do linux system programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for linux system programmer in California is $49.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.58 and $61.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Linux System Programmer?

A Linux System Programmer is a software developer who specializes in designing, developing, and maintaining system-level software that interacts directly with the Linux operating system. They work on operating system kernels, device drivers, system utilities, and other low-level components essential for hardware and application software to function efficiently on Linux platforms. Their work often involves using programming languages like C and C++, understanding Linux internals, and optimizing performance and security at the system level.

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

To thrive as a Linux System Programmer, you need a deep understanding of C/C++ programming, operating system concepts, and Linux internals, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like GCC, GDB, Make, Git, and experience with kernel modules or system calls are commonly required, and certifications such as the Linux Foundation Certified Engineer can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively make someone stand out in this role. These abilities are essential for developing reliable, efficient system software and ensuring robust, secure Linux environments.

What is the difference between Linux System Programmer vs Linux Kernel Developer?

AspectLinux System ProgrammerLinux Kernel Developer
CredentialsProficiency in C, Linux OS, and system APIsDeep knowledge of kernel architecture, C, and debugging tools
Work EnvironmentDevelops system-level applications, interacts with hardware and OSWorks on kernel code, modules, and core OS functionalities
Industry UsageEmbedded systems, device drivers, system utilitiesKernel development, OS internals, driver development
Search/Comparison IntentFocuses on system programming tasks and application developmentFocuses on kernel internals and core OS modifications

The main difference is that Linux System Programmers develop system-level applications and utilities that run on Linux, while Linux Kernel Developers work on the core kernel code itself. Both roles require strong C skills and Linux knowledge, but Kernel Developers focus more on internal OS architecture, whereas System Programmers build on top of the kernel to create functional software.

How does a Linux System Programmer typically collaborate with other teams during the software development lifecycle?

Linux System Programmers frequently work alongside software engineers, DevOps teams, and QA specialists to design, implement, and optimize system-level components. Collaboration often involves reviewing kernel patches, troubleshooting low-level bugs, and ensuring system stability across different environments. Effective communication is crucial, as programmers must translate complex technical issues for non-specialist teams and work together to integrate new features or improvements. Participating in code reviews and contributing to technical documentation are also routine parts of the job.
What are popular job titles related to Linux System Programmer jobs in California? For Linux System Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Linux System Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Linux System Programmer jobs in California are:
Linux System Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Linux System Programmer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,115 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
Senior Systems Engineer - Linux - 26-016

Senior Systems Engineer - Linux - 26-016

Ausgar Technologies, Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

JOB TYPE: FULL-TIME
MUST POSSESS A SECRET LEVEL SECURITY CLEARANCE; OR THE ABILITY TO OBTAIN ONE WILL TO BE CONSIDERED.
WE USE E-VERIFY TO ELECTRONICALLY CONFIRM THE EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY OF NEWLY HIRED EMPLOYEES.
COMPETITIVE SALARY, COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS AND A COMPANY THAT CARES!
AUSGAR Technologies, Inc., an equal opportunity employer, is an established, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Department of Defense, government contractor with core competencies in Information Assurance, Cybersecurity and Systems Engineering. With offices on both the East and West coasts, an inviting culture and above-standard benefits, opportunity abounds for the right individual!
Senior Systems Engineer - Linux - 26-016 - San Diego, CA
As a growing Department of Defense Contractor, AUSGAR Technologies has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Systems Engineer - Linux to join our team of smart and innovative technical team members at NIWC PAC - Bayside in the Point Loma area of San Diego, CA.
Position will support Advanced Oceanographic Research, Data Collection Systems and Secure Computing Infrastructure. We are seeking a Linux Systems Engineer & Cybersecurity Practitioner to join a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers and technicians developing advanced oceanographic data collection and processing systems.
Will provide technical leadership and hands-on support for Linux-based computing infrastructure used for research, engineering development and field operations. Responsibilities include system design, procurement, deployment, administration, user support, cybersecurity compliance and operation of data storage and network infrastructure.
The ideal candidate possesses strong Linux systems administration skills combined with practical experience implementing cybersecurity controls, system hardening, encryption technologies, PKI and Department of Defense (DoD) Information Assurance requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design, deploy, configure and maintain Linux servers, workstations, laptops, storage systems and supporting infrastructure.
  • Evaluate, procure, integrate and maintain computing, networking and data storage resources.
  • Administer RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) storage systems, backup solutions and engineering data repositories.
  • Install and maintain network infrastructure including switches, routers, firewalls, wireless systems and air-gapped environments.
  • Deploy and support infrastructure services, including web servers, source code repositories, network file services, development toolchains, remote access systems, GitLab, OpenProject and related collaboration tools.
  • Provide direct technical support to scientists, engineers and technicians.
  • Implement and maintain Linux hardening standards, STIGs, encryption technologies, smartcard authentication, PKI services, TLS certificates and certificate revocation checking.
  • Work with Information Assurance personnel to maintain RMF compliance, accreditation artifacts and cybersecurity documentation.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, operating procedures and system configuration records.
  • Identify opportunities to improve reliability, security, maintainability and operational efficiency.

Requirements
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must possess a Secret level security clearance; or the ability to obtain one will be considered.
  • Completion of an accredited technical program or relevant military, professional or technical experience is preferred.
  • Five to eight years of Linux systems administration experience.
  • Strong understanding of Linux/UNIX operating systems, networking and system architecture.
  • Experience supporting users in a networked Linux environment.
  • Ability to read, interpret and apply technical documentation.
  • Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:
Linux, Networking, and Infrastructure
Experience with:
  • Linux command-line administration, shell scripting, system performance analysis, package management and automation.
  • Tools including SSH, rsync, AWK, grep, vi/vim and systemd.
  • TCP/IP networking, IPv4/IPv6, firewalls, switches, routers and network troubleshooting.
  • Git, GitLab, Subversion, Samba, Python, virtualization technologies, backup systems and software or hardware RAID administration.

Information Assurance and Security
Experience with:
  • Linux hardening and Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs).
  • PKI, X.509 certificates, CAC/smartcard authentication, TLS/SSL, OCSP and CRL validation.
  • Data-at-rest encryption including LUKS and encrypted RAID systems.
  • LDAP, Active Directory integration, Kerberos, SSSD and PAM.
  • Vulnerability remediation, security compliance auditing and RMF compliance activities.
  • Operation of Linux systems in classified, controlled or air-gapped environments.

Domain Experience
Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Communications systems
  • Signal processing.
  • Industrial control systems
  • Real-time systems
  • Oceanographic systems
  • Scientific or engineering research environments

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting DoD, Navy, federal government, or defense-contractor environments.
  • Experience implementing STIGs and maintaining RMF compliance documentation.
  • Experience administering GitLab, OpenProject, and related engineering collaboration platforms.
  • Experience supporting research, laboratory, testing, or prototype-development environments.
  • Experience with government procurement processes and regulations.

Salary Range: $150K-$165K
Based on your qualifications, you will be placed in Level I-V.
An essential qualification for this position is successfully obtaining a security clearance issued by the Federal Government, which may require successful completion of a background check.
We use E-Verify to electronically confirm the employment eligibility of newly hired employees.
AUSGAR's salary range is dependent upon a variety of factors, which include experience, skills, education, certifications and geographical location. Our salary range includes a base salary and excellent benefits package as part of our total compensation.
AUSGAR Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and need assistance in completing the application, you have the right to request reasonable accommodation. Please e-mail us at jobs@ausgar.com if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access www.ausgar.com careers page as a result of your disability.

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