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Os Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aptiv

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$13K - $160K/yr

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel Location: Walnut Creek, CA ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four ...

Aptiv

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$13K - $160K/yr

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel Location: Walnut Creek, CA ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission-critical intelligent systems. For more than four ...

Apple

CoreOS Kernel Performance Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The CoreOS Kernel team within Apple's CoreOS organization is looking for an exceptional OS kernel performance engineer to push the boundary of performance on Apple Silicon platforms - from iOS to ...

NIO

Senior OS/Kernel Engineer

San Jose, CA

$143K - $186K/yr

About the Position We are seeking a senior OS / kernel engineer to join our SkyOS team. The team is responsible for the design and development of NIO's full-domain vehicle operating systems. The ...

nio.com

Senior OS/Kernel Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

We are seeking a senior OS / kernel engineer to join our SkyOS team. The team is responsible for the design and development of NIO's full-domain vehicle operating systems. The position will explore ...

NIO

Senior OS/Kernel Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $186K/yr

About the Position We are seeking a senior OS / kernel engineer to join our SkyOS team. The team is responsible for the design and development of NIO's full-domain vehicle operating systems. The ...

CEDENT

Kernel Developer (eBPF)

$40 - $60/hr

Knowledge of Computer Architecture, OS internals and Networking essential. * Software Development Skills: C Programming , Device Driver development, Linux Kernel development, Protocol stack ...

Apple

CoreOS Kernel Performance Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$129K - $225K/yr

The CoreOS Kernel team within Apple's CoreOS organization is looking for an exceptional OS kernel performance engineer to push the boundary of performance on Apple Silicon platforms - from iOS to ...

Aptiv

Senior System Engineer - Core Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Support the development of Core OS technologies for our embedded VxWorks OS * Contribute to coding ... kernel functionality * Strong experience in C programming with hands‑on experience in embedded ...

Aptiv

Senior System Engineer - Core Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $160K/yr

Senior System Engineer - Core Kernel ABOUT WIND RIVER Wind River is a global leader in delivering ... Support the development of Core OS technologies for our embedded VxWorks OS * Contribute to coding ...

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Os Kernel Developer information

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$33K

$141.7K

$308K

How much do os kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for os kernel developer in the United States is $141,668.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $156,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an OS kernel developer?

OS Kernel Developers are software engineers who specialize in designing, implementing, and maintaining the core component of an operating system, known as the kernel. The kernel is responsible for managing system resources, hardware communication, and enabling software applications to interact with hardware safely and efficiently. These developers work with low-level programming languages like C and C++, and they play a crucial role in ensuring system stability, security, and performance. Their work is fundamental to the functioning of computers, smartphones, servers, and embedded systems.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an OS kernel developer?

To thrive as an OS Kernel Developer, you need expertise in low-level programming (especially C and assembly), operating system concepts, and a strong background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Git, GNU toolchain, debuggers, and experience with version control systems are typically required, along with contributions to open-source kernel projects being highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for addressing complex bugs and collaborating with distributed teams. These abilities ensure robust, secure, and efficient kernel development, which is foundational for stable and high-performing operating systems.

What are common challenges faced by OS kernel developers when debugging kernel-level code?

Debugging kernel-level code can be particularly challenging due to the lack of traditional debugging tools and the potential for system instability. Since kernel bugs can lead to crashes or data corruption, developers often rely on specialized tools like kernel debuggers, logging, and virtual machines to safely test changes. Additionally, reproducing bugs can be difficult because issues may only appear under specific hardware or workload conditions. Collaboration with hardware engineers and other system developers is often necessary to resolve complex issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Os Kernel Developer vs Device Driver Developer?

AspectOs Kernel DeveloperDevice Driver Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, knowledge of OS conceptsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related, specialized in hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentDeveloping core OS components, debugging kernel codeWriting and maintaining hardware-specific drivers, testing on devices
Industry UsageOperating system development, embedded systemsHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, PC peripherals
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding core OS development rolesFocus on hardware interaction and driver development

Os Kernel Developers work on the core components of operating systems, ensuring system stability and performance. Device Driver Developers focus on creating software that allows hardware devices to communicate with the OS. While both roles require knowledge of hardware and software, kernel developers handle the entire OS kernel, whereas driver developers specialize in specific hardware interfaces.

What are popular job titles related to Os Kernel Developer jobs?

For Os Kernel Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Os Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,668 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Senior System Engineer - OS Kernel

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

Aptiv PLC
Non-Profits • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Aptiv PLCexternal

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Senior System Engineer – OS Kernel

Location: Walnut Creek, CA

Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for mission‑critical intelligent systems. For more than four decades, the company has been an innovator and pioneer, powering billions of systems that require the highest levels of security, safety, and reliability. Wind River helps customers across automotive, aerospace, defense, industrial, medical, and telecommunications industries solve complex technology challenges on their journey toward the new intelligent machine economy. The company’s software powers generation after generation of the safest, most secure systems in the world.

YOUR ROLE

As a Senior OS Kernel Engineer, you will contribute to the development of kernel components for the VxWorks operating system, supporting implementation, testing, and debugging while collaborating with other senior engineers to ensure performance, reliability, and security.

In your daily job you will:

  • Develop core OS technologies for our embedded VxWorks OS
  • Develop and deliver high quality design, code, and tests following a CI/CD model and agile methodology
  • Investigate and resolve issues reported during product verification and from customers
  • Create design documents for new technologies and conduct code reviews
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate hardware and software solutions
HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

Key skills and competencies for succeeding in this role are:

  • Strong understanding of operating system concepts
  • Experience with RTOS software development, including core OS kernel functionality
  • Proficiency in C programming with hands‑on experience in embedded systems development
  • Experience with assembly, C++, Python, and other development languages is a plus
  • Experience with low‑level device drivers, BSP board bring‑up, or architecture‑level development is a plus
  • Experience in developing software compliant with industry certification standards, including DO-178C, ISO 26262, ASPICE, MIL is a plus
  • Ability to drive a project end‑to‑end, from concept and requirements through implementation, delivery, and release
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to thrive as an exceptional team player who works well in collaborative environments
  • Self‑motivated, fast learner with a demonstrated ability to adopt and master new technologies
BENEFITS
  • Hybrid work model for workplace flexibility
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance
  • Short and long‑term disability coverage
  • RRSP matching for financial security
  • Flexible time‑off policies for work‑life balance
  • Employee assistance program for mental well‑being
  • Learning benefits, including a LinkedIn Learning subscription and seminars
Compensation

This role is compensation range is between $130,00 to $160,000 USD plus annual incentive plan bonus. Compensation is determined through interviews and a review of the education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities of the applicant, and equity with other team members. Employees in this role are also eligible for the following benefits in accordance with the terms of the Company's plans: health, dental, vision insurance, life insurance, flex time off, eligibility to enroll in 401k, and 12 paid holidays.

APPLICANT PRIVACY NOTICE: Your privacy is of the utmost importance to us. At Wind River, we strictly adhere to all applicable data privacy laws. Please review Wind River's Applicant Privacy Notice, which can be found here.

Wind River is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to diversity. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other legally protected status.

Join us at Wind River, where we’re not just shaping technology; we’re shaping the future of a safer, more connected world. Your journey to make a meaningful impact begins here.

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