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Os Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple Inc.

$129K - $225K/yr

Description As part of the CoreOS Kernel engineering team, you will work on the core layers of the ... In this role you will analyze and optimize the OS performance on upcoming platforms for ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH

$142K - $263K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH

$142K - $263K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH

$142K - $263K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Apple

Kernel Scheduler Engineer, Core OS

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$150K - $277K/yr

Description As a Kernel Engineer on the Scheduler team, you will drive the evolution of the XNU ... OS scales gracefully from low-power embedded devices to massive high-performance workstation ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH · On-site

$142K - $263K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Durham, NH · On-site

$142K - $263K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

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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.

CoreOS Kernel Performance Engineer

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Apple Inc.
Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Apple Inc.external

$129K - $225K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 684 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Cupertino, California, United States Software and Services

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 macOS, visionOS and beyond. If you have a passion for low-level programming, performance optimization, and working at the intersection of software and hardware, this is your opportunity to have a major impact on end-user experience across Apple’s products.

Description

As part of the CoreOS Kernel engineering team, you will work on the core layers of the operating systems. In this role you will analyze and optimize the OS performance on upcoming platforms for responsiveness and efficiency. Drive innovative kernel and runtime design optimizations that improve scheduling, memory, and power efficiency. Collaborate with hardware architects and chip design teams to drive optimizations for Apple Silicon, and influence next generation CPU, GPU and memory subsystems. Engage across many teams, from hardware engineering to compiler, application and frameworks teams, to drive world-class end-to-end system performance.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent professional experience
  • Proficiency in C programming language
  • Strong understanding of OS fundamentals
  • Ability to collaborate across teams to drive development and performance optimizations
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with kernel development and low-level performance analysis.
  • Knowledge of modern CPU and memory architectures
  • Expertise with profiling tools and analysis (Instruments, VTune, etc.).

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $129,300 and $225,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs.

Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

You’ll also receive benefits including:

  • Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
  • retirement benefits
  • a range of discounted products and free services
  • reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition
  • discretionary bonuses or commission payments
  • relocation

Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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